2018 Chevrolet Trax Safety Report
2018 Chevrolet Trax: Strong crash ratings, but significant recalls and widespread mechanical failures, particularly with suspension and engine components, raise long-term safety concerns.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Chevrolet Trax
Reliability Score
The 2018 Chevrolet Trax 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 2018 Chevrolet Trax
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Chevrolet Trax:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Failure Improperly welded front lower control arm ball joint, leading to potential separation and loss of vehicle handling. Subject of two recalls. |
High | Common | N/A (manufacturing defect) miles |
| Engine Oil Cooler/Housing Leaks Plastic oil cooler/housing leaks oil, often leading to burning smells, coolant loss, and potential engine damage. High repair cost ($2000-3000). |
High | Common | 50000-100000 miles |
| Turbocharger Failure Turbocharger malfunctions, causing loss of power, abnormal noises, and potential engine damage. Some vehicles not included in related recalls. |
High | Common | 50000-100000 miles |
| Loss Of Motive Power/Stalling Vehicle fails to accelerate, loses power, or stalls while driving or idling, often without warning lights. |
High | Occasional | 50000-100000 miles |
| Blower Motor/Resistor Melting Blower motor, resistor, and wiring harness melting, causing smoke, burning smells, and potential fire risk. |
High | Occasional | 50000-100000 miles |
| Rear Differential Carrier Cracking Rear differential carrier cracking and crumbling, leading to fluid leaks and requiring costly replacement. |
High | Rare | 50000-100000 miles |
| Brake System Malfunction Brake pedal becoming soft, vehicle failing to stop, or 'Service Brake Assist' messages appearing, indicating brake booster or sensor issues. |
High | Occasional | 50000-100000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Chevrolet Trax:
Frequent issues with front lower control arms (subject to recall), steering tightness, and rear differential carrier cracking.
Common problems include oil cooler leaks, turbocharger failures, loss of power, and overheating without proper gauge indication.
Reports of blower motor/resistor melting, infotainment system failures, and power steering issues.
Issues related to loss of motive power, transmission dropping, and AWD system malfunctions.
Incidents of brake failure, soft brake pedal, and 'Service Brake Assist' warnings.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Chevrolet Trax
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Trax safe?
The 2018 Chevrolet Trax received excellent NHTSA crash test ratings (5-star overall, frontal, side; 4-star rollover), indicating strong performance in controlled collision scenarios. However, NHTSA complaint data reveals significant mechanical reliability concerns, including two recalls for critical suspension components that could affect handling, and numerous complaints about engine failures (e.g., turbocharger, oil leaks), brake issues, and electrical problems. While it performs well in crashes, its long-term mechanical integrity and potential for sudden component failure are notable safety concerns.
What are common problems with the 2018 Chevrolet Trax?
The most reported issues for the 2018 Chevrolet Trax are related to the SUSPENSION (21 complaints), ENGINE (11 complaints), and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (6 complaints). Specific common problems include improperly welded front lower control arms (subject to recall), engine oil cooler leaks, turbocharger failures, loss of motive power, and melting blower motor/resistor components.
Are there any recalls for the 2018 Chevrolet Trax?
Yes, the 2018 Chevrolet Trax has two recalls, both concerning the 'SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT'. These recalls address an improperly welded joint in one or both front lower control arms, which could lead to a partial separation and negatively impact vehicle handling, increasing the risk of a crash.
Does the 2018 Chevrolet Trax have engine problems?
Yes, the 2018 Chevrolet Trax has a notable number of engine-related complaints (11 instances). Common engine problems include oil cooler/housing leaks (often due to plastic components), turbocharger failures leading to loss of power and noise, and instances of the engine overheating without proper dashboard warnings. Some owners have reported significant repair costs, including engine replacement.
How reliable is the 2018 Chevrolet Trax?
Based on the 95 NHTSA complaints, two safety recalls, and numerous reports of high-severity mechanical failures across various critical components like the suspension, engine, and brakes, the 2018 Chevrolet Trax demonstrates below-average reliability. While crash test ratings are high, the frequency and nature of reported mechanical issues suggest potential for costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the excellent crash test ratings but significant mechanical issues and recalls, prospective buyers should prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially focusing on suspension components, engine for leaks/turbo health, and electrical system, and factor in potential future repair costs.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Chevrolet Trax
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Chevrolet Trax. The data includes 95 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Chevrolet Trax 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.