The 2010 Traverse only lasts around 150,000 miles with engine failures and power steering issues. At $7,256 – 8,809, it’s cheap, but not worth the money at all.
Is the 2010 Chevrolet Traverse a Good Used SUV?
- No, 2010 is a bad year for the Traverse. Owner reviews complain about unreliable engines, electrical problems, and a cramped cabin.
- Reliability ratings are terrible. There are a lot of issues on 2009–2012 models, with some mechanical improvements for 2013.
- Performance is decent from the standard V6 engine found in the Traverse.
- The Traverse is a safe SUV, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
- Fuel economy is below average, at only 19 MPG combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Traverse?
- Consumer Reports says the Traverse says the Traverse has a nice interior, but extremely low owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the 2010 Traverse a 3.5/5 liking the smooth ride, but disliking the poor visibility.
- Kelly Blue Book users rate the Traverse 4.2/5 and enjoy the high towing capacity, but dislike the low resale value.
What Common Problems Does the 2010 Chevrolet Traverse Have?
Problems found on the 2010 Traverse are severe and include engine failures, worn-out power steering systems, and issues with the air conditioning.
Engine failures are the most common problem reported by owners at around 100,000 miles. Components in the engine wear out very fast, and replacing the entire engine costs about $6,500 depending on local labor rates.
Power steering system problems show up on a lot of models in the first 80,000 miles. The most common source is a worn-out power steering pump, which costs about $1,500 to replace.
Air conditioning and heater issues are another frequent issue in the first 100,000 miles. Replacing the hoses and compressor is usually necessary, and prices are high, at nearly $2,000.
There are 5 recalls on the 2010 Traverse, and none of them cover anything related to serious mechanical issues, with the most important recall being for air bags.
How Long Will the 2010 Chevrolet Traverse Last?
A properly maintained 2010 Chevy Traverse can last around 150,000 miles, about half as long as other large SUVs including the Chevy Tahoe. Regular annual maintenance costs are very expensive, according to data from Repair Pal, at $776 per year.
Most Traverse models from 2010 will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace the timing chain tensioner for $1,800, the alternator costing $750, and the camshaft position sensor which costs $350.
The air conditioning unit is inadequate for the size of the vehicle. I have had to recharge the a/c unit with refrigerant every year that I have owned it. I also had a new evaporator installed.
The engine light has been coming on lately. The tire pressure and been coming on showing low tires but at least it tells me so I will put in air.
The only problem I have is that it's heavy and is a little slippery in the rain. I find it very reliable and comfortable even for long road trips.
Every car is reliable at first. So far I have. Replaced the. Radiator. O2 sensors (2times). The time on the door is falling off due to car washes. And the back windshield wiper is super hard to replace.
It broke down twice within two weeks time. Each time was very costly. The first time it happened on the Fwy and my car was slowing down on purpose.
Yes it is reliable. We have had problems with the tire pressure light continuing to come on even though the tire pressure is good.
Yes it is reliable. Have not had any major issues with the car for the three years I have had it...
Again, I don't know how others have gotten on with theirs. Ours has not been reliable but it could be because the previous owners didn't take good care of it.
How Much Is the 2010 Chevrolet Traverse Worth?
Blue book values range from $7,256 – 8,809, making the Traverse about $3,500 cheaper than a Nissan Armada or Ford Expedition. When new, the price range was $29,224 to $39,985. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 15% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Traverse?
There are three models of the Traverse available. Technology was last updated in 2009, with a new infotainment system added for the 2013 model.
LS is the entry-level model with:
- 17-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Power Windows & Locks
- OnStar Safety Features
- 6-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo System With 3.5mm Jack & Satellite Radio
LT is the midrange model and has:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Power Driver’s Seat
- Leather Steering Wheel
- Power Liftgate
- Rearview Camera
- Tri-Zone Climate Control
- 10-Speaker Bose Stereo System
LTZ is the flagship model and features:
- 20-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Heated & Ventilated Front Seats
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- Remote Engine Start
What Engines Come In the Traverse?
The only engine found in the Traverse is the powerful 3.6L V6, which makes 288 horsepower while getting up to 19 MPG combined. Performance is okay, taking only 7.3 seconds to go 0-60 miles per hour. It can also tow up to 5,400 pounds when properly equipped.
What Colors Does the Traverse Come In?
How Big Is the Traverse?
The 2010 Chevy Traverse is classified as a 3-row full-size SUV, but is a bit smaller than some rivals like the Chevy Suburban or Toyota Sequoia. Passenger room is good in the first and second rows, but there’s limited legroom for adults in the third row.
Cargo space is good with 24.4 cubic feet of room behind the third row, 57.8 cubic feet with the third row folded flat, and up to 116.4 cubic feet with all the seats folded flat.
How Does the Traverse Compare to the Competition?
The Ford Explorer is a popular competitor, which costs about $1,000 more. Reliability ratings and passenger space are better on the Explorer, but the Traverse has a nicer interior. We recommend the Explorer since they last longer with fewer problems.
The Chevy Tahoe is another rival, costing about $5,000 more. Passenger space and power are both better in the Tahoe, but the Traverse is smoother on the road. We recommend the Tahoe since it’s a more capable and long-lasting SUV, well worth the money.
Do Owners Recommend the Chevy Traverse?
Yes, it is very reliable. It has excellent highway gas mileage. I have owned my vehicle for 6 years and have only replaced tires, brakes, headlights, tail lights, blinkers and recharged the a/c.
Yes it has enough room and you can put the seats down to fit a lot of groceries. I love the heated seats and how you can make them fit you.
Yes I really enjoy the traverse were a family of 7 and we all fit very comfortably. It's also great with the DVD player. I also feel I get very good gas mileage and enjoy driving my car for daily driving.
Overall absolutely like most cars it has its flaws I am not a fan of the second middle console in the back seat my kids constantly climb over it.
Yes, it is a reliable SUV. I feel safe in it. I like the height of my SUV. I am able to look ahead as I am driving.
Yes. It has held up well and we use it a lot to transport kids to athletic events, school, family vacations, etc.
Yes it is a good vehicle. It has third row seating great for family trips. It drives well in all weather types. Especially in winter. Very specious.
We've had some issues with ours but it is a used vehicle so that may be the main issue. Hopefully others have fewer issues.