2016 Chevrolet Trax: ball joint or control arm failure

Filed May 21, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · FL

The vehicle was brought to an authorized GM dealership for a scheduled appointment to address a check engine condition related to a purge valve and an open safety recall for the lower control arm. The VIN was provided and confirmed at the time the appointment was made; however, the recall was not completed during the visit. The dealership replaced the purge valve without documenting diagnostic testing to confirm the cause or verify the repair. The vehicle was returned with the same check engine light still present. Additional issues were communicated through technician video and text, including a potential oil leak and possible fluid mixing, but none were documented or diagnosed in the service record. A dealership manager later stated that the vehicle was “not safe to drive,” but no written explanation or safety guidance was provided, and the vehicle was released without clarification. No diagnostic records, technician notes, or findings have been provided by either the dealership or GM despite escalation. The consumer has worked through appropriate dealership and manufacturer channels for approximately one month without resolution. The consumer is now being directed to return the vehicle for additional diagnostics at the consumer’s expense without defined scope or explanation. The vehicle remains with an unresolved condition and an open safety recall, without clear guidance regarding safe operation. This lack of clear, documented information is particularly concerning for senior-aged owners who rely on accurate guidance to make safe decisions.

Filed Sep 18, 2023 · CT

Motor mount bolt snapped and engine fell while driving car…also recalled item (lower control arms) where not repaired…I purchased car 1 1/2 years ago from large Chevrolet dealership

Filed Jul 4, 2022 · Suspension · NJ

I went to GM to have my recall fixed and they denied me service as they said they didn’t have the tool and it looked okay visually and to not worry about it. My ball joint is now separated from the control arm and I cannot drive the car

Filed Jan 10, 2021 · Engine, Suspension · 67,589 miles · TX

When I turn left, the right side makes a popping noise around the ball joint. Reservoir coolant tank leaks, and no tempature guage.. There is no way to tell if my car over heats until the light comes on and I have to pull over then? I have never seen a vehicle not have a tempature guage!! Also my passenger seat belt will not stay fastened!

Filed Jun 17, 2019 · Airbags · 27,000 miles · AZ · crash · 1 injury

Tl* the contact owns a 2016 chevrolet trax. While driving at 45 MPH, another vehicle across the street ran their stop sign at 45 MPH and crashed head on into the contact's front side of the vehicle. The air bags did not deploy. The contact sustained long term back injuries that required medical attention. The party that crashed into the contact was not injured. It was unknown if a police report was filed. The vehicle was towed the contacts residence and then to a local mechanic where it was diagnosed that the frame, grill, a-frame, hood, and a control arm needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the federal safety agency. The crash was not in relation any open recall. The failure mileage was 27,000.