Timing chain failure / engine seizure
Fault codes P0008/P0017, rough running, complete engine seizure
Check engine light: On
The most common problem on this generation: the timing chain stretches or fails outright, which can cause the engine to seize completely and typically means a full engine replacement. GM addressed this through Special Coverage 14582 rather than a formal recall, and multiple owners describe it as a widespread, systemic design defect that extends beyond that program's official model-year and mileage scope — so an owner outside the covered window may still be facing this as a genuine out-of-pocket repair.
$3,000 – $6,30080,000 – 150,000 mi
This vehicle shares its Lambda platform with the GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave (also) — both independently confirm the same timing chain defect, reinforcing this as a platform-wide issue rather than a Traverse-specific quirk.
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Power steering failure
Difficulty turning at low speeds, intermittent loss of assist
Check engine light: Off
A second, separate Special Coverage program (14329) on this same vehicle addresses power steering pump or rack failures that cause difficulty turning at low speeds or intermittent loss of assist. As with the timing chain issue, owners outside the program's coverage window may face this out of pocket.
Also confirmed on the GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave, which share the same Lambda platform.
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Electrical system / "Service StabiliTrak" warnings
Alternator failures, StabiliTrak and traction control warning lights
Check engine light: On
Alternator failures paired with recurring "Service StabiliTrak" warnings and traction control malfunctions. This is not confirmed as recall-covered.
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"Service Air Bag" warning / passenger occupancy sensor
Recurring dashboard airbag warning indicator
Check engine light: Off
A recurring "Service Air Bag" dashboard indicator tied to passenger occupancy sensor failures. not confirmed as recall-covered.
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Transmission fault or check engine light with codes P0716, P0776, P0717, P0777, P2714, P2715
Transmission fault and/or check engine light with pressure-switch/solenoid codes P0716, P0776, P0717, P0777, P2714, and/or P2715
Check engine light: On
Transmission fault and/or check engine light with pressure-switch/solenoid codes P0716, P0776, P0717, P0777, P2714, and/or P2715. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 228 owner reports on file.
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The dominant problem on this generation is timing chain stretching or failure that can cause complete engine seizure, typically between 80,000–150,000 miles — it was addressed through Special Coverage 14582, not a formal recall, and multiple owners report the underlying defect extends beyond that coverage's official scope. A separate Special Coverage program (14329) addresses power steering failures on the same vehicle.