Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2012 Chevrolet Traverse
The 2012 Chevrolet Traverse has moderate owner complaints and multiple recall campaigns, primarily concerning air bags, engine, and steering issues. While some structural concerns were identified in recalls, they are less frequent. If looking to purchase, pay attention to these areas during the inspection and test drive, and confirm recall compliance as a priority. Complaints and recalls indicate potential reliability issues, so thorough checks are advised.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2012 Chevrolet Traverse has 5 NHTSA recall campaigns and 354 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #21V246000 Side Curtain Air Bags May be Unsecured NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V415000 Liftgate Struts may Fail and Liftgate may Fall NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V266000 Flexible Steel Cable for Seat Belt may Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V118000 Side Impact Air Bags Wiring Connections NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V151000 WINDSHIELD WIPER ARM NUTS NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 115 complaints
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) 84 complaints
- Steering 62 complaints
- Air Bags 48 complaints
- Electrical System 48 complaints
- Power Train 46 complaints
Of the 354 complaints on file, 10 report a crash and 2 a fire; across all 354 complaints, owners report 14 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Frequent engine trouble
How to check: Listen for unusual noises during idle and acceleration.
ESC malfunctions
How to check: Verify stability control warning lights during drive.
Steering difficulties
How to check: Assess steering resistance at different speeds.
Air bag malfunction
How to check: Check air bag warning light functionality.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any engine knocking sounds.
Red flag: Persistent engine noise.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Look for warning lights on the dashboard.
Red flag: Stability control light on.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test for smooth steering in turns.
Red flag: Steering feels heavy or loose.
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure no unusual vibrations or noises.
Red flag: Noticeable engine hesitation.
- 05
Braking test
What to check: Feel for any brake pulsations or noises.
Red flag: Brakes feel unresponsive.
- 06
Parking maneuvers
What to check: Check steering wheel returns to center.
Red flag: Steering doesn't self-center.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the air bag recall been completed?
- Any engine issues, especially under warranty?
- Has the ESC system been serviced recently?
- Are there any outstanding recalls?
- How often was the vehicle serviced?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Maintenance records
- Recall repair documents
- Title status confirmation
- Current registration
- Warranty documentation
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2012 Chevrolet Traverse at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2012 Chevrolet Traverse? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.