2016 Chevrolet Traverse Safety Report
2016 Chevrolet Traverse: High crash test scores overshadowed by critical, unaddressed airbag recall and other safety issues.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse
Reliability Score
The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driver'S Air Bag Inflator Rupture Multiple recalls (e.g., NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000) indicate the driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, ejecting metal fragments and causing serious injury or death. Many complaints detail long waits for parts to fix this critical issue. |
High | Common | N/A miles |
| Side Curtain Air Bag Attachment Recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V518000) for side curtain air bags not being properly attached, which could prevent them from deploying as intended and increase injury risk in a crash. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Transmission Issues (Loss Of Power/Jerking) Complaints mention transmission losing power or jerking, almost causing accidents, with some referring to a 'transmission solenoid' or 'torque converter' as a known weak link. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Wiper Motor Overheating/Fire Risk Recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V668000) for a manufacturing defect in the windshield wiper motor that could cause it to overheat and increase the risk of fire. |
Medium | Rare | N/A miles |
| Seat Frame Welding Defect Recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V701000) for improperly welded seat frames that may not perform as intended in a crash, increasing occupant injury risk. |
Medium | Rare | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse:
Over half of all complaints (154 out of 289) are related to air bags, primarily concerning the critical recall for inflator rupture and the severe delays in obtaining parts for repair.
16 complaints relate to steering issues, though specific patterns are not detailed in the provided data.
15 complaints mention power train issues, including loss of power, jerking, and potential transmission solenoid or torque converter problems.
9 complaints are for the electrical system, with examples including dimming/failing lights and interior/dash lights going out.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse
Is the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse received excellent crash test ratings (5 stars overall, frontal, and side, 4 stars rollover). However, its safety is significantly compromised by 289 complaints, including 1 death and 15 injuries, and 5 recalls. The most critical issue is a widespread air bag inflator recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000) with many owners reporting dangerous delays in getting repairs, making its overall safety questionable until these recalls are addressed.
What are common problems with the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse are overwhelmingly related to AIR BAGS, accounting for 154 complaints. This is primarily due to a critical recall for exploding inflators and the unavailability of parts for repair. Other common problems include STEERING (16 complaints) and POWER TRAIN (15 complaints), with some owners reporting transmission issues like loss of power or jerking.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse?
Yes, the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse has 5 recalls. The most significant are for AIR BAGS, including one for driver's air bag inflator rupture (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000) and another for improperly attached side curtain air bags. Other recalls address SEATS (improper welding), VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR (overheating/fire risk), and an earlier air bag inflator issue (NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V518000).
How does the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse perform in crash tests?
The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning an Overall 5-star safety rating. It received 5 stars for both Frontal Crash and Side Crash tests, and 4 stars for the Rollover test.
What should I do if I own a 2016 Chevrolet Traverse?
If you own a 2016 Chevrolet Traverse, immediately check if your vehicle is affected by the critical air bag inflator recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000) and any other open recalls. Contact your dealer and GM directly to push for the necessary repairs, especially given the reported delays in part availability. Do not ignore these recalls, as they pose serious safety risks.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the critical, unaddressed air bag recall and other safety complaints, exercise extreme caution. Ensure all 5 recalls, especially the air bag inflator recall, have been completed with proof before considering purchase, as current owners report significant delays in obtaining repairs.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Chevrolet Traverse
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse. The data includes 289 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 8 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 15 reported injuries, and 1 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.