The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse lasts around 250,000 miles with only some minor stability control and Bluetooth issues. At $13,900 to $19,925, it’s a good value for a full size SUV built to carry a large family.
Is the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 7/10 – 2016 is a decent year for the Chevy Traverse, although it lacks behind some other large SUVs since there’s no V8 engine, giving it an average overall score. Owner reviews praise the comfortable suspension, smooth engine, as well as the stereo system.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – Interior materials are similar to other large SUVs, the seats are comfortable for long trips, cargo space is great for its size as well.
- Reliability 7/10 – There are no widespread problems reported on the 2016 Traverse. Avoid models from 2009–2014 which have engine issues. Models from 2015–2022 are much more reliable.
- Performance 6/10 – Performance is worse than average, since the Traverse only comes with a V6 engine, the towing capacity is also low at up to 5,200 pounds.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2016 Traverse earns a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. Standard features include a rearview camera. Parking sensors as well as collision & lane departure warning systems are all optional.
- Gas Mileage 6/10 – Fuel economy is poor at 18 MPG giving 396 miles of range from the 22 gallon tank. Gas costs are $48 higher than average, at $307 per month.
- Value 7/10 – The 2016 Traverse is cheaper than other large SUVs, although it loses value quickly too, giving it an average value score.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Chevy Traverse?
- Consumer Reports says the 2016 Traverse is a nice choice for an 8-seater large SUV with average owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the Traverse a 3.6/5, praising the smooth suspension, but doesn’t like the outdated stereo system.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the Traverse at 4.2/5, enjoying the all-wheel-drive in the snow, but owners don’t like the low towing capacity.
What Common Problems Does the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse Have?
Common problems found on the 2016 Chevy Traverse include stabilitrak warning lights, Bluetooth connectivity issues, as well as burning oil. Overall, these problems are average compared to other large SUVs with similar repair costs, too.
Stabilitrak warning lights show up on some Traverse models at around 40,000 miles. Usually when the light turns on there’s a problem with the steering angle sensor. Changing out the sensor for a new one fixes the problem and costs around $400, depending on local labor rates.
Bluetooth connectivity issues are also reported by owners in the first 10,000 miles. There is a software update for the stereo system which helps improve the reliability of the Bluetooth connection. Chevy dealerships can install the software, which usually costs under $100.
Burning oil is another problem mentioned by Traverse owners at around 60,000 miles. Most engines wind up burning some oil, however, in some cases the Traverse’s V6 burns more than normal. Replacing seals costs around $1,200, although usually it’s not necessary if you just check the oil regularly.
There are 4 minor recalls on the 2016 Traverse, which is better than other large SUVs. The most serious recall covers the third row seat frame, which may have some weld issues. Chevy will replace the seat frame for free on affected models. Other recalls cover air bags, which are common on all used SUVs.
How Long Will the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse Last?
A well-maintained 2016 Chevy Traverse should last around 250,000 miles, which is around 100,000 miles less than the highly rated Toyota Sequoia. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other large SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $485 per year.
Since many 2016 Traverse models for sale have over 100,000 miles on them, buyers should be prepared to replace the alternator for $700, exhaust manifold gasket costing $225, as well as the wheel hub which costs $350.
Yes it is reliable. So far, we have not encountered any problems, but like I mentioned earlier, we have only had it for one year.
No problems at all, very reliable. Gas mileage could be better, but it's not horrible. Average is 20 mpg.
The 2016 Chevrolet traverse ls is a very reliable vehicle. Our vehicle has not given our family any problems as we have used it on the road.
Yes with good wheels but is has slid a few times on the freeway with rain. I think this car needs specific wheels tied to it.
I have absolutely no problems with the traverse besides oil changes and the routine check up issues. I may have a low pressure tire issue but besides that it has been great to my family.
I have never had any problems with my traverse. I tend to travel often and reliability is what I need.
I haven't had any issues with my 2016 Chevrolet Traverse. I've had it for about a year now and it has never given me a problem, even when driving in difficult situations.
I have had zero problems with my Traverse! I trust it fully to carry around my precious cargo! It can also be linked to OnStar which is an extra cushion for reliability!
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is average in the 2016 Traverse with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen stereo with Bluetooth connectivity. Safety technology is average with a standard rearview camera. Optional safety equipment includes forward collision alert as well as lane departure warning systems.
Is the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse a Good Value?
Yes, the 2016 Chevy Traverse is a decent value since it’s cheaper than other full size SUVs. Blue book prices range from $13,950 to $20,000, making it less than a GMC Yukon or Ford Expedition. When new, the price range was $28,700 to $44,145. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 12% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Chevy Traverse?
There are three main models of the 2016 Traverse from the base LS all the way up to the more luxurious LTZ.
LS is the entry-level model with:
- 17-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Automatic Headlights
- Cruise Control
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- 5-Inch Touchscreen Display
- 6-Speaker Stereo System
LT is a step up, adding:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Fog Lights
- Remote start
- Power Driver’s Seat
- Tri-Zone Climate Control
- Power Liftgate
- Second Row Captain’s Chairs
- 10-Speaker Bose Stereo System
LTZ is the flagship model which has:
- 20-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Ventilated Front Seats
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Forward Collision Warning
- Lane Departure Warning System
What Engines Come In the Chevy Traverse?
The engine found in the 2016 Chevy Traverse is a weak 3.6L V6 which makes 281 horsepower while getting up to 18 MPG. Performance is worse than average, taking 8.1 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH. The towing capacity is also low at up to 5,200 pounds.
What Colors Does the Chevy Traverse Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Chevy Traverse?
The 2016 Chevy Traverse is a comfortable full size SUV with seating for 7 or 8 people depending on the configuration. The seats are supportive while still being soft and comfortable on long trips.
Passenger room is excellent, offering enough legroom for taller adults in all three rows.
How Much Storage Space Does the Chevy Traverse Have?
Cargo room is excellent with enough room for 4-5 suitcases behind the third row, over 10 with the third row folded flat, and more than 20 with all the seats folded flat.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The first generation of the Chevy Traverse was launched in 2009 and replaced with the second generation in 2018.
2014: More USB ports, LTZ model gets forward collision & lane departure warning systems.
2015: Siri Eyes Free voice control system added.
2016: New base LS model added, 4G LTE WiFi available.
2017: LTZ model has its name changed to Premier.
2018: Fully redesigned for the second generation offering new engines, interior features, and exterior styling.
2019: New 8-inch touchscreen added to the model.
2020: Standard V6 engine across all models, updated navigation system.
How Does the Chevy Traverse Compare to the Competition?
The Chevy Traverse ranks lower than other full size SUVs primarily because it doesn’t have the towing or off-road capabilities of the competition. If you’re looking for a minivan replacement, the Traverse is a good choice.
The Chevy Equinox is a smaller SUV offered by Chevrolet, which costs $1,500 less. Performance is better in the Chevy Equinox while the Chevy Traverse has more passenger room. We recommend the Chevy Traverse for most buyers since there are fewer mechanical problems reported.
The Honda Pilot is another competitor which costs around $5,000 more. Standard technology is better in the Honda Pilot, while the Chevy Traverse offers more room for passengers in the third row. We recommend the Chevy Traverse for 2016 since it has fewer problems, although the Pilot wins in other years.
Do Owners Recommend the Chevy Traverse?
Yes, so far we like it but have only had it for a couple of months. I like the size, features, and color.
Yes, it is an excellent family vehicle. Roomy, and has great cargo space. Fits my 6 ft 5 inch tall father comfortably.
Yes, I do believe that the Chevrolet traverse ls is a good vehicle. This vehicle is just a little small for our family size.
Yes I enjoy this vehicle a lot especially the sound system. The car interior design is well rounded. The car picks up speed well with the transmission system.
The traverse is a very good vehicle, roomy, great amenities, double room, let down seats and do much more for larger families.
I love my traverse.. It fits all the stuff I use for my event business. It is dependable in all kinds of weather.
The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse is a great vehicle. It has very nice features that makes driving a comfortable experience.
Yes! I love my Traverse! It easily fits both my kids and has plenty of room for extra stuff in the back! It can also haul their 3 cousins around!