VVT Solenoid Fouling / Camshaft Timing Faults
high- Typically appears
- 60–120k mi
- Estimated repair
- $150 – $550
2016 Chevrolet
TraxSUV
SUV
The 2016 Chevrolet Trax is a subcompact crossover built on GM's global Gamma II platform, slotting below the Equinox in Chevrolet's lineup. It punches above its price point with a turbocharged 1.4L engine, a reasonably comfortable interior for four adults, and solid city fuel economy — all in a small footprint that's easy to park and maneuver. It was assembled in South Korea and shares its platform and powertrain with the Buick Encore. For daily commuters and small families in town, the Trax makes good sense: low running costs, decent tech for its era, and GM dealer support nationwide. The downside is that the 1.4T is a willing but stressed engine in this application — it works hard at highway speeds when loaded, and it needs consistent oil changes more than most engines its size. AWD was an available option but FWD is the volume seller. By 2016, most of the early-generation teething issues had been addressed, but VVT solenoid fouling from extended oil change intervals remains the biggest mechanical concern. Buyers shopping used should prioritize service history above all else.
Reliability
3/5
Verified data
Specs shown for Trax — the most common configuration.
Other trims may vary in engine, drivetrain, or fuel economy. Sign in to see your vehicle's exact specs.
Engine
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Drivetrain
FWD
Fuel
Gasoline
MPG
26 city / 34 hwy / 29 combined
Seats
—
Doors
—
Body
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Overview
AI-curatedThe 2016 Chevrolet Trax is a subcompact crossover built on GM's global Gamma II platform, slotting below the Equinox in Chevrolet's lineup. It punches above its price point with a turbocharged 1.4L engine, a reasonably comfortable interior for four adults, and solid city fuel economy — all in a small footprint that's easy to park and maneuver. It was assembled in South Korea and shares its platform and powertrain with the Buick Encore. For daily commuters and small families in town, the Trax makes good sense: low running costs, decent tech for its era, and GM dealer support nationwide. The downside is that the 1.4T is a willing but stressed engine in this application — it works hard at highway speeds when loaded, and it needs consistent oil changes more than most engines its size. AWD was an available option but FWD is the volume seller. By 2016, most of the early-generation teething issues had been addressed, but VVT solenoid fouling from extended oil change intervals remains the biggest mechanical concern. Buyers shopping used should prioritize service history above all else.
Known for
- Turbocharged 1.4L shared with the Buick Encore
- Compact footprint with easy urban parking
- Reasonable fuel economy for the segment
- GM's MyLink infotainment standard
- Available AWD on higher trims
Best for
- City and suburban commuters
- First-time SUV/crossover buyers
- Small families or couples needing cargo versatility
- Budget-conscious buyers wanting a new or near-new crossover
Watch for
- VVT system problems tied to neglected oil changes
- Turbocharger bypass/wastegate valve issues at higher mileage
- Transmission shudder on some units under light throttle
- Road salt corrosion on brake lines and undercarriage — especially relevant in Wisconsin
Common issues by mileage
6 knownTurbocharger Bypass Valve Failure
medium- Typically appears
- 80–130k mi
- Estimated repair
- $120 – $400
Oxygen Sensor / O2 Heater Circuit Faults
medium- Typically appears
- 70–110k mi
- Estimated repair
- $120 – $350
Transmission Shudder / Hesitation
medium- Typically appears
- 40–90k mi
- Estimated repair
- $100 – $300
Brake Line Corrosion (Undercarriage)
high- Typically appears
- 50–100k mi
- Estimated repair
- $300 – $900
Airbag / SRS System Faults
low- Typically appears
- Any mileage
- Estimated repair
- $200 – $800
Maintenance schedule
- 1 Every 5,000 miles or 6 months — do NOT stretch to the OLM's maximum in this engine Engine oil and filter change
The 1.4T's VVT solenoids are extremely sensitive to dirty oil. The Oil Life Monitor may allow up to 7,500–10,000 miles, but the VVT system doesn't tolerate it well. Stick to 5k or full synthetic at 7,500 max.
- 2 Every 45,000 miles Transmission fluid drain and fill
GM calls this fluid 'lifetime' but independent shops consistently see shudder and wear on units that have never had the fluid changed. Use Dexron VI. A drain-and-fill (not a flush) is sufficient.
- 3 Every 20,000–25,000 miles or annually Air filter replacement
A clogged air filter makes the turbo work harder and reduces throttle response. Easy DIY or quick shop job.
- 4 Every 60,000 miles Spark plug replacement
The 1.4T runs iridium plugs from the factory. Worn plugs increase misfires, stress the ignition coil, and reduce turbo response. Use OEM-spec iridium replacements only.
- 5 Inspect at 60k, replace by 90k miles Serpentine belt inspection and replacement
Belt failure leaves you stranded. On the 1.4T, replacement is straightforward but don't skip the inspection — cracking or glazing in Wisconsin winters accelerates wear.
- 6 Every 2 years regardless of mileage Brake fluid flush
Brake fluid is hygroscopic and absorbs moisture. In a Wisconsin winter environment with temperature swings, degraded fluid lowers the boiling point and can contribute to corrosion inside the brake system.
- 7 Every 5 years / 150,000 miles (DEX-COOL) Coolant system inspection and flush
DEX-COOL has a long service life but should still be inspected annually for proper freeze protection down to at least -34°F for Wisconsin winters. Check hoses for cracking at the same time.
- 8 Every winter and spring (at minimum) Undercarriage wash and brake line inspection
Road salt accumulation is the number-one enemy of this vehicle in the upper Midwest. Flush the undercarriage regularly through winter and have brake lines, fuel lines, and subframe inspected each spring for corrosion.
Always defer to the manufacturer's service manual for warranty-mandated intervals.
Cost of ownership
Annual maintenance
$550 – $1,100
Fuel
At 29 MPG combined and ~15,000 miles/year, expect roughly $1,500–$1,800/year at current Wisconsin gas prices for a typical FWD Trax owner.
Insurance
Generally inexpensive to insure — expect $900–$1,400/year for a typical adult driver in the Lake Geneva area, varying by driving record and coverage level.
The Trax is a low-cost vehicle to own when properly maintained. The biggest financial risk is deferred oil changes causing VVT damage — a $50 oil change skipped repeatedly can become a $500–$1,500 repair. Budget on the higher end of maintenance if buying used with unknown service history.
Seasonal care
Lake Geneva, WI Winter
- Verify battery is 550+ CCA and load-test it before first hard freeze — the 1.4T is harder to cold-crank than a larger displacement engine and a weak battery will leave you stranded at -10°F
- Switch to a full synthetic 0W-30 or 0W-20 if using conventional oil — cold-start oil flow is critical for the VVT solenoids on sub-zero mornings
- Top off washer fluid with a -20°F or colder rated formula; the reservoir empties quickly on Wisconsin winter roads
- Install dedicated winter tires if the vehicle is FWD — the Trax has no torque vectoring or off-road capability and all-seasons become dangerous in heavy snow
- Flush the undercarriage after every significant salt event; pay attention to wheel wells and the underside of the doors where salt packs in
- Check freeze protection of coolant before winter — should protect to at least -34°F; top up or flush if not
Summer
- Check tire pressure monthly — Wisconsin summers cause significant pressure fluctuation (roughly 1 PSI per 10°F change) and the Trax's small tires are sensitive to under-inflation
- Inspect the A/C system for proper cooling; the 1.4T cabin can heat-soak quickly when parked — a weak A/C system makes a noticeable difference in driver comfort
- Check coolant level and inspect hoses for cracking or soft spots — summer heat accelerates degradation of aging rubber
- Inspect the cabin air filter — pollen and road debris from spring can clog it, reducing A/C efficiency and airflow
Comparable vehicles
2016 Buick
Encore
Platform-twin of the Trax — literally the same vehicle with a more premium interior and badge. Often priced similarly used. Worth cross-shopping; parts and service are identical.
2016 Honda
HR-V
Same subcompact crossover segment, slightly more cargo-clever interior with the Magic Seat system. Naturally aspirated engine is simpler mechanically. Better long-term reliability reputation.
2016 Mazda
CX-3
Similar footprint and price point. Mazda's reliability and driving dynamics edge the Trax. AWD availability and Skyactiv engine efficiency are comparable selling points.
2016 Jeep
Renegade
Direct competitor at similar price. Available with true 4WD capability the Trax can't match. However, the Renegade's 9-speed automatic has its own reliability concerns — compare service histories carefully.