Chevrolet Trax Best Model Years Compared | Smart Buyer’s Guide
You’re looking at the Chevrolet Trax and wondering if this affordable little SUV can actually deliver reliable service — and the truth is, the year you choose makes all the difference between a budget-friendly gem and a frustrating money pit.
The Chevy Trax has been around since 2013, but it went through a complete transformation for 2024. That means there are two very different versions of this SUV on the used market, and one of them is a much smarter buy than the other. Here’s what you need to know to make the right choice.
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
The Chevrolet Trax comes in two distinct generations. The best years are 2024 and newer, which feature a complete redesign with more space, modern tech, and a lower starting price than the old model . Within the first generation (2015–2022), the 2017–2019 models are the most reliable after Chevy worked out early production bugs . Avoid the 2015–2016 models — they have the most complaints, including air conditioning failures and engine power loss . Be cautious with 2024–2025 models as well, since some early examples have reported electrical and engine issues, including a recent class-action lawsuit over the 1.2-liter turbo engine .
Key Takeaways
- Best Overall: 2024 – Redesigned with more space, bigger screens, and better value, but be aware of early reliability reports
- Most Reliable First-Gen: 2017–2019 – The sweet spot for budget buyers, with fewer complaints and solid track records
- Budget Pick: 2015 – Only if you’re on a tight budget and can find one with excellent maintenance records, but expect some issues
- Years to Avoid: 2016 – The worst year with over 150 complaints, five recalls, and ongoing AC and engine problems
- Caution Advised: 2024–2025 – New engine has had some failures, including a class-action lawsuit over connecting rod issues
Two Generations, Two Different Stories
The Trax has two distinct generations, and understanding the difference is key to picking the right year.
First Generation (2015–2022)
These models run on a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission . They’re compact, affordable, and easy to park in the city. The downsides? They’re cramped inside, have basic features, and the early years had some reliability problems .
The first generation is maintenance-sensitive — that 1.4-liter turbo needs regular oil changes to stay healthy . It’s not a bad engine, but it doesn’t tolerate neglect well.
First-generation Trax features:
- 1.4L turbo four-cylinder (138 horsepower)
- Up to 29 mpg combined
- Available all-wheel drive
- 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (2017+)
- Compact size, easy to park
Second Generation (2024–Present)
The 2024 model year brought a massive redesign. The Trax grew by 11 inches, got a sleeker look, and became a much more competitive SUV . It rides on a new platform with a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine . It’s front-wheel drive only — no AWD option .
The new Trax is more spacious inside, has modern tech like an 11-inch touchscreen, and actually costs less than the previous generation . It won awards from Cars.com and made Car and Driver’s 10Best list . But being a new design means there are still some unknowns about long-term reliability.
Second-generation Trax features:
- 1.2L turbo three-cylinder (137 horsepower)
- 30 mpg combined
- Front-wheel drive only
- Up to 11-inch infotainment screen
- Much more interior space
- Lower starting price than previous generation
Best Chevrolet Trax Years to Buy
2024 Chevrolet Trax – The Modern Choice
If you can afford it, the 2024 Trax is the best year to buy. It’s a complete redesign that transformed the Trax from a cramped subcompact into a more practical small SUV . The interior is bigger, the tech is better, and the styling is much more appealing.
The 2024 model won Cars.com’s Best Car of 2024 and made Car and Driver’s 10Best list . For the LT trim, you get an 11-inch touchscreen and remote start, and you can add heated seats and a heated steering wheel .
But here’s the catch: the new engine has had some issues. A class-action lawsuit was filed in 2024 over the 1.2-liter turbo three-cylinder, with owners reporting engine knocking and sudden failures due to connecting rod problems . One owner’s Trax stalled at 11,581 miles and needed a full engine replacement .
2017–2019 Chevrolet Trax – The Best First-Gen Years
If you want a reliable used Trax without spending too much, target the 2017–2019 models. These are the sweet spot of the first generation — Chevy had worked out the early bugs, and the powertrain was well-understood by then .
Well-maintained examples from these years can reach 150,000 miles or more . The engine is the same 1.4-liter turbo across all first-gen models, so regular oil changes are crucial .
What to check: Look for consistent oil change records. The 1.4-liter turbo is sensitive to extended oil change intervals . Also test the air conditioning — it was a common issue in early years .
2015 Chevrolet Trax – The Budget Option
The 2015 Trax is the cheapest year you can buy, but you’re getting what you pay for. It has known issues, including the car rolling back when parked on a hill and air conditioning failures . That said, it’s not the worst year — that title belongs to 2016.
If you’re looking at a 2015, get a pre-purchase inspection and check the AC carefully. Make sure the parking brake holds the vehicle on a slope. And budget for potential repairs.
Chevrolet Trax Years to Avoid
2016 Chevrolet Trax – The Worst Year
The 2016 Trax has the most complaints of any model year, with over 150 NHTSA filings and five recalls . The air conditioning system failed frequently, and owners reported engine power loss when going uphill or driving at highway speeds .
This is the year to skip, even if the price looks tempting. The problems are just too common and too expensive to fix.
2015 Chevrolet Trax – Close Second
The 2015 had its own set of issues — the hill-holding problem was especially concerning . Air conditioning failures were also common, with repairs costing around $300 . It’s better than 2016 but still a risky buy.
2013–2014 Chevrolet Trax – First-Year Bugs
These are the earliest Trax models, and they had the typical first-year production issues . Electrical problems and drivetrain issues were reported . They’re not impossible to own, but they require more careful inspection than the 2017–2019 models.
2024–2025 Chevrolet Trax – Proceed with Caution
While the new Trax is impressive on paper, early reliability data is mixed. Multiple owners have reported serious issues:
- Instrument cluster going completely blank while driving
- Air conditioning failures
- Fuel system problems requiring repeat repairs
- Transmission issues and stalling
One owner of a 2025 Trax reported it was “in the shop back and forward” since December 2024 with transmission issues, camera failure, and the car cutting off while driving . Another owner had the car for just two weeks before needing fuel system repairs, and the same issue came back twice more in five months .
The 2024 model also had a recall for the instrument cluster display going blank while driving . And the engine class-action lawsuit mentioned earlier is a red flag .
Comparison: First-Gen vs. Second-Gen Trax
| Feature | First Generation (2015–2022) | Second Generation (2024+) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.4L turbo 4-cyl (138 hp) | 1.2L turbo 3-cyl (137 hp) |
| Fuel Economy | Up to 29 mpg | 30 mpg |
| Drive Type | FWD or AWD | FWD only |
| Interior Space | Compact, cramped | Larger, more comfortable |
| Tech Features | 7-inch screen standard | Up to 11-inch screen |
| Starting Price (Used) | $5,000–$12,000 | $20,000–$26,000 |
| Reliability Trend | Better after 2017 | Early reports mixed |
| Recalls | Varies by year | 2024: instrument cluster issue |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most reliable Chevy Trax year?
Within the first generation, the 2017–2019 models are the most reliable, benefiting from years of refinement . For the newest model, the 2024 and newer are the best if you can work around some early issues .
What Chevy Trax years should I avoid?
Avoid the 2015 and 2016 models. The 2016 has over 150 complaints and five recalls . Be cautious with 2024–2025 models due to engine and electrical issues .
Does the Chevy Trax have engine problems?
Yes. The 1.4-liter turbo in first-gen models is sensitive to maintenance but reliable when cared for . The 1.2-liter turbo in second-gen models has had some connecting rod failures, leading to a class-action lawsuit .
Is the 2024 Chevy Trax reliable?
Early reports are mixed. The 2024 model won awards for value and design but has had some reliability issues, including a recall for the instrument cluster and reports of engine problems . It’s too new to have a clear long-term picture .
How many miles can a Chevy Trax last?
A well-maintained Trax can reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles . The 1.4-liter turbo engine’s longevity heavily depends on regular oil changes .
Does the Chevy Trax have AWD?
Only the first-generation models (2015–2022) offer all-wheel drive. The second-generation (2024 and newer) is front-wheel drive only .
How much does a used Chevy Trax cost?
First-generation models range from about $5,300 to $24,000 depending on year and condition . Second-generation used models range from about $20,000 to $26,000 .
Final Thoughts: Which Trax Should You Buy?
The Chevrolet Trax is a much better vehicle today than it was when it first launched. The second-generation models (2024 and newer) are genuinely impressive for the price — they’re spacious, stylish, and packed with features .
For most buyers, the 2024 Trax is the best choice if you’re willing to accept some risk as a first-year redesign. It’s a huge improvement over the old model and costs less than what it replaced . Just be aware of the potential issues and consider an extended warranty.
For budget-conscious buyers, the 2017–2019 Trax is the clear winner in the first generation. It’s reliable when maintained, affordable, and has fewer complaints than earlier years .
Whatever you choose, always check the maintenance records and get a pre-purchase inspection. The Trax, especially the first-generation models, doesn’t forgive neglect well .
What year Trax do you own, and how has it held up? Drop your experience in the comments below — it might help someone else make the right choice.
References & Further Reading
