Last updated: 2026-04-20

2019 Chevrolet Trax Reliability Report
The 2019 Chevrolet Trax scores 75/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 123 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
2
Complaints
123
Complaint Rate
10.5per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$488
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,150–$2,300
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (21)
- SUSPENSION (18)
- STEERING (13)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is 2 years after the 2017 refresh refresh.
- Year 5 in the First generation (U200) (2015–2022).
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 1st generation Trax (US).
What this means for buyers
Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.
2015: First generation (U200) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2017: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2019: This Model Year
2019 is 2 years after the 2017 refresh refresh.
Should You Buy the 2019 Chevrolet Trax?
At 75/100, the 2019 Chevrolet Trax lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2019 is 2 years after the 2017 refresh refresh.
Owners log 123 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (21). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2020 Chevrolet Trax, which scored 6 points higher. See also the 2018 Chevrolet Trax for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (12%)
- +Low recall count
Cons
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (21 complaints)
- −SUSPENSION: Broken strut mounts and control arms (18 complaints)
Compare 2019 Chevrolet Trax With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 2 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (21)
- SUSPENSION (18)
Recall Overview
2
recalls on record
The 2019 Chevrolet Trax carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
10.5
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 22
Safety Incidents
8
Crashes
2
Fires
8
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 Chevrolet Trax Recall Details
2 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Chevrolet Trax. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
SUSPENSION
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Chevrolet Trax vehicles. A joint in one or both of the front lower-control arms may have been improperly welded. An improperly welded joint may break, resulting in the partial separation of the lower-control arm from the vehicle.
Consequence
A partial separation of the lower-control arm from the vehicle could cause the attached front wheel to toe outward, impacting the vehicle's handling and steering and increasing the risk of crash.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the left and right front lower-control arms, replacing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 14, 2019. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is A182202370.
AIR BAGS
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019 Buick Encore, Chevrolet Spark, Traverse, and Trax vehicles. The Sensing Diagnostic Module (SDM) on these vehicle may not have been turned off of "manufacturing mode," preventing the air bags from deploying in the event of a crash.
Consequence
If the air bags do not deploy in the event of a crash, it can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the SDM module to the correct mode, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2018. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 and Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 18365.
Buying a used 2019 Chevrolet Trax? Check its history first
Every 2019 Chevrolet Trax has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2019 Chevrolet Trax NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 19.8%
Safety Technologies
Chevrolet TraxRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$488
vs $466 avg for subcompact SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.2
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
12%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
26–28 MPG
Running cost: $2,650–$2,800/yr
Fuel + repair
24–26 city / 29–31 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trax 1.4L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 26 | 31 | 28 | $2,150 |
| Trax AWD 1.4L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 24 | 29 | 26 | $2,300 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Chevrolet Trax.
Inspect turbocharger for cracks or signs of failure
Check instrument cluster and infotainment system for functionality
Test air conditioning system for burning odors or malfunctions
Examine suspension components for noise or damage
Verify brake system operation and check for extended stopping distances
Look for signs of coolant leaks or high consumption
Ensure steering operates smoothly without pulling to one side
2019 Chevrolet Trax Common Problems by Component
123 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
21 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Trax frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly with the instrument cluster and infotainment system. Common symptoms include the instrument cluster failing to display critical information like speed and mileage, and the infotainment screen turning black or malfunctioning, affecting the backup camera and phone connectivity. These issues are often reported around 21,100 to 84,500 miles. Additionally, multiple owners describe recurring problems with the air conditioning system, such as burning odors and component failures, sometimes leading to melted parts and potential fire hazards. These electrical and A/C issues can impact vehicle operation and safety, especially in terms of visibility and climate control.
SUSPENSION
18 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Trax frequently report issues with the vehicle's suspension, particularly involving broken strut mounts and control arms. Common symptoms include squeaky sounds over bumps, the vehicle pulling to the right, and popping or clunking noises during turns. Several complaints note these problems occurring around 8,000 to 22,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with two crashes reported, one involving an injury, and instances of sudden loss of control while driving. Potential buyers should be aware of these suspension concerns, especially if considering a vehicle within this mileage range.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
15 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several recurring issues with the 2019 Chevrolet Trax, including coolant leaks, radio malfunctions, and problems with the heating system. Complaints frequently mention the need to refill coolant multiple times a month due to undetected leaks, with one owner replacing the coolant pump without resolution. Multiple owners describe radio and stereo display issues, such as the display not working or failing to connect via Bluetooth, often unresolved by dealers. Additionally, some owners experience heater failures, with parts on back-order, and others report brake failures, including grinding noises and inability to stop, posing potential safety risks. A notable case involves a vehicle fire, which occurred while the car was parked, though the cause was undetermined. These issues appear across various mileages, with some occurring as early as 5,734 miles.
STEERING (13 complaints)
STEERING
13 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Trax frequently report issues with the vehicle's steering, including the steering pulling to the left or right, often requiring constant correction to maintain a straight path. Several complaints describe the power steering failing, especially in cold temperatures, leading to a stiff steering wheel or complete loss of steering capability. These issues are reported at various mileages, with some occurring as early as 3,000 miles, and one incident involving a crash and injury when the power steering failed at approximately 102,000 miles. Additionally, some owners mention repeated dealership visits without resolution, and in one case, a steering column module failure required replacement. Safety implications are evident, with one crash reported due to steering failure, highlighting potential risks for prospective buyers.
ENGINE (11 complaints)
ENGINE
11 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Trax frequently report issues related to the turbocharger, with multiple complaints mentioning cracks or failures around 50,000 miles, leading to acceleration problems and engine codes like P0299. Another common issue involves the engine running rough, particularly after refueling, often linked to the evaporative emissions purge valve, with some owners experiencing coolant leaks and suspected head gasket failures. Symptoms such as engine shaking, reduced power, and warning lights like "Engine Power Reduced" and "Service StabiliTrak" are noted, often occurring at speeds around 40-60 mph. Safety implications are suggested by reports of loss of acceleration and difficulty maintaining speed, which could pose risks in traffic. Buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly if considering a vehicle with higher mileage.
POWER TRAIN (9 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
9 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Trax frequently report issues with the turbocharger, particularly around and after 79,000 miles. Symptoms include the vehicle stalling, inability to accelerate, excessive exhaust smoke, and the check engine light illuminating. Multiple complaints mention the turbocharger failing soon after being replaced, with some citing oil-related issues. Additionally, a fire incident is reported where the engine caught fire due to a broken and empty transfer case, highlighting a significant safety concern. These patterns suggest potential reliability issues with the power train components, which prospective buyers may want to consider, especially in vehicles with higher mileage.
SERVICE BRAKES (8 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
8 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several brake-related issues with the 2019 Chevrolet Trax, including extended stopping distances and brakes self-applying, often around 7,500 to 55,000 miles. Complaints frequently mention a failure of the brake pedal to engage properly, leading to crashes in three instances, with two incidents resulting in injuries. Some owners describe warning messages like "Service Brake Assist" and "ABS Service Soon" appearing without clear resolution from service visits. Safety implications are significant, with multiple reports of brake failure leading to loss of control and collisions. Buyers should be aware of these issues, especially at higher mileages, and verify any repairs or recalls have been addressed.
WHEELS (6 complaints)
WHEELS
6 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Trax frequently report issues with rapid tire wear and defects leading to safety concerns. Complaints describe tires becoming bald or nearly bare at low mileages, with some owners experiencing this as early as 350 miles and others around 24,000 miles. Additionally, there are reports of sudden tire blowouts, including one instance where the inner wall of a tire exploded. One owner mentions a front driver-side ball joint failure, causing the wheel to rotate unexpectedly while turning, which could pose a significant safety risk if occurring at higher speeds. These issues suggest potential safety implications, such as loss of control, and may require further investigation for those considering purchasing a used model.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (4 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
4 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Trax frequently report issues related to vehicle speed control, particularly involving turbocharger malfunctions. Common symptoms include reduced acceleration, lack of power, and the illumination of the check engine light, with some owners specifically noting code P0299 for turbo underboost. Complaints also describe the engine running roughly, sputtering, and making unusual noises, often accompanied by the stability control warning light. One report mentions unintended acceleration when braking. Mileage is not consistently mentioned, but one owner notes issues shortly after purchase. These symptoms can lead to significant safety concerns, such as difficulty maintaining highway speeds and challenges in lane changing, potentially impacting driver control.
AIR BAGS (3 complaints)
AIR BAGS
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Trax report issues with airbag deployment, particularly in crash situations. One complaint describes a collision where the steering wheel airbag did not deploy, resulting in a concussion and burns for the driver, with the vehicle being totaled at approximately 130,000 miles. Another owner reports the driver's airbag deploying with excessive force, causing a second-degree burn on the left forearm. Additionally, a separate complaint highlights a prolonged delay in airbag recall repairs due to unavailable parts, with the vehicle being at the dealership for over 100 days. These issues suggest potential safety concerns related to airbag performance and availability, especially in crash scenarios.
When Do 2019 Chevrolet Trax Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Chevrolet Trax Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Chevrolet Trax Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Chevrolet Trax year is 2025 with a reliability score of 85/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2022 (81/100) and 2021 (81/100).
Chevrolet Trax Years to Avoid
No Chevrolet Trax years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Chevrolet Trax maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Chevrolet Trax Reliability Score Trend
Chevrolet Trax reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 80/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2021 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2022 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2024 | 80/100 | Excellent |
| 2025 | 85/100 | Excellent |
Chevrolet Trax Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Chevrolet Trax reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Chevrolet Trax?
How many recalls does the 2019 Chevrolet Trax have?
Is the 2019 Chevrolet Trax expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2019 Chevrolet Trax without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Chevrolet Trax.
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