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Chevrolet Trax engine failure problems

53 of the 1,010 owner complaints about the Chevrolet Trax describe engine failure, most of them for the 2024 model year.

owner complaints
53
worst model year
2024
typical repair cost reported
$7,600
typical mileage
41,000
Is there a fix? No recall or service bulletin covers this area of the car yet.

By model year

  • 2025
    2
  • 2024
    27
  • 2022
    1
  • 2021
    4
  • 2020
    3
  • 2019
    3
  • 2018
    2
  • 2017
    4
  • 2016
    3
  • 2015
    4

Often reported together

Check engine light 14Steering lock-up 6Loss of power 5Overheating 4Oil consumption 4Fire or smoke 4Won't start 3Misfire 3

Trouble codes mentioned

P0300 2P0299 2U0101 1P0700 1P06DE 1P0521 1P0496 1P0449 1P0442 1P0171 1

What owners say

Filed Oct 1, 2026 · Engine · 20,000 miles · AZ

The contact owns a 2024 Chevrolet Trax. The contact stated that while driving 45 MPH, there was an abnormal sound and smoke coming from the front of the vehicle. The contact stated that there was oil leaking from the vehicle and the engine seized. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road. The dealer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. The vehicle was towed to the dealer; however, the report from the diagnostic test was not provided. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was contacted by phone, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000.

Filed Sep 1, 2026 · Engine · 20,227 miles · IA

The contact owned a 2025 Chevrolet Trax. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormally loud bang, and the vehicle lost automotive power. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the road, and the vehicle was towed to a local dealer. The engine was replaced under warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 20,227.

Filed Aug 31, 2026 · Engine · LA

2024 Chevrolet Trax 1RS, approximately 66,000 miles. I was driving on the interstate at approximately 77 mph when I suddenly heard a very loud bang from the engine area. Immediately afterward, the vehicle began smoking both inside and outside, and there was a large black cloud of smoke behind the vehicle. The engine stalled and I lost propulsion while traveling at highway speed. I was able to move the vehicle to the side of the interstate. The vehicle then displayed a warning stating, “Oil pressure low, turn car off immediately.” I shut the vehicle off and did not continue driving. The vehicle had to be towed to an authorized Chevrolet dealership. The Chevrolet repair order dated August 10, 2026 documents the concern as a loud engine noise and notes that the tow/wrecker driver reported a hole in the engine block. Chevrolet’s inspection marked the engine oil, fluid leaks, and cooling system as “Alert.” At the same inspection, the engine oil-life monitor showed 93%. Chevrolet recommended removal and replacement of the engine long block. The dealer estimate lists $11,106.14 for the long-block replacement and approximately $13,420.89 in total pending recommendations. GM has agreed to provide partial financial assistance toward the engine replacement, leaving me responsible for approximately $5,200. The replacement engine is currently on backorder, and the vehicle remains inoperable while awaiting an engine. I am filing this complaint because the engine failed suddenly while I was traveling approximately 77 mph on an interstate. The loud mechanical failure, smoke, engine stall, and sudden loss of propulsion created a serious safety risk. I am concerned that this may be related to similar engine failures being reported in Chevrolet vehicles equipped with the 1.2L turbocharged engine. I have retained the Chevrolet inspection report, repair estimate, photographs of the engine following the failure, GM case information, and documentation concerning the replacement.

Filed Aug 22, 2026 · Engine · NV

My 2024 Chevrolet Trax is currently operating with a suspected internal engine defect tied to active Safety Recall A242435780. On 7/27/2026, Michael Hohl Chevrolet performed the software patch for this recall. However, severe internal engine noise remains. On my official repair order, the Shop Foreman test-drove the vehicle and explicitly documented: 'suspects could be something internal will need further diagnostics. Despite this documented internal engine concern tied to a federal safety recall, GM Corporate (Case #[XXX] (tel:[XXX])) and the dealership refuse to cover the diagnostic engine teardown. GM Customer Assistance formally told me to stop driving if the noise worsens, shifting the safety liability to me while refusing to remedy the defect. A sudden internal engine failure while driving will result in an immediate loss of motive power, power steering, and braking assistance, creating a severe crash hazard. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Jul 16, 2026 · Engine · KY

We were driving on the highway when the Trax suddenly made a popping sound, all the electric went off, and then the engine cut off. We lost control of steering for a bit, we're able to get to the side of the road. We had the car towed to the local Chevrolet dealer for diagnostics. The service manager informed me the engine is unrepairable due to a hole in the engine block, likely where the engine threw a rod. In order to get the engine replaced we have to have it towed to a second dealership, which we are in the process of doing now. I just purchased this vehicle 3 weeks ago without knowing this issue was a possibility

Filed Jun 12, 2026 · Engine · WI

Vehicle engine light came on XXX and was driven immediately to Auto Zone to check the code. The code showed P0299. The vehicle was then taken 2 miles home and parked. It was towed to Lake Chevrolet in [XXX] on XXX to prevent any engine damage from occurring due to the failed turbo. Upon Lake's inspection they claim the manifold and valve cover gasket must be replaced. We agreed to that, and asked about an oil change as everything we read said that was mandatory with work like this. Was told the technician didn't suggest it but they would do it at our request for an additional charge. After they confirmed the turbo was bad and well as the items above we agreed to the repairs and they said the vehicle would be ready the next day. We called again at the end of the next day and they said the repairs were made and they were going to drive the vehicle to make sure all was well. The next call we received was the service advisor stating we need a new engine as after they drove it white smoke was coming from the exhaust and they now found a cracked piston. The vehicle was not blowing out white smoke when they received, it also passed emissions on 4/14/26. We also asked for all technician notes, diagnostics, etc. which they will not provide us unless we come in and get the non running vehicle and pay the 983.00 invoice. We would have to have the vehicle towed from their lot as it can't be driven since their repairs. We contacted GM and spoke with "Tamar" multiple times with no resolution. Service manager claims GM will pay 1,500.00 towards a 9,000.00 new engine. This engine damage is consequential damage of the turbo failure which the dealership is denying. GM and Lake Chevrolet are refusing to honor special coverage XXX for the resulting catastrophic damage. Dealership also refusing to provide documentation requested in attached letter. We seem to be expected to take their word for all of this. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed May 13, 2026 · Engine · 41,000 miles · PA

The contact owns a 2024 Chevrolet Trax. The contact stated that while driving at 70 MPH with cruise control engaged. The low-pressure oil light illuminated. The driver was able to pull over. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who determined that it was 4 quarts low and replenished it. An oil compensation test was performed. The dealer found no issue. While driving, there was an abnormal banging sound. The "Pull over and turn off the engine" message was displayed. The driver noticed that there was smoke emerging from the engine. There was oil leaking from the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed as having a blown engine. A hole was located in the block due to low oil. The vehicle was not repaired due to the parts being backordered. The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 41,000.

Filed Apr 30, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · NJ

I am submitting this complaint to report serious, recurring, and potentially dangerous safety defects involving my 2024 Chevrolet Trax. Timeline of Safety-Related Mechanical Failures: March 12, 2026 – First Highway Safety Incident While driving to work on [XXX] [XXX] ight activated, and the vehicle began to hesitate during highway operation. This occurred during my daily commute at highway speeds, creating an unsafe driving condition and serious concern for vehicle reliability and safety. [XXX] is extremely [XXX] ring this incident, I was afraid for my life due to the vehicle’s behavior in heavy traffic. I depend on this highway daily for work, and my family depends on my safe return home. My wife, daughter, son, and parents deserve peace of mind knowing I operate a safe vehicle. March 15, 2026 – Diagnostic Codes- P0521 – Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch Range or Performance- P06DE – Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Stuck On Concerns include oil pressure, lubrication issues, and potential engine damage. April 27, 2026 – Second Highway Incident While driving on Route 78 after work, the vehicle experienced another failure:- Severe shaking- Check engine light- Unsafe operation Code:- P0300 – Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected GM Case Numbers:- XXX- XXX Manufacturer and Dealership Awareness: General Motors and the dealership are fully aware of these repeated issues. Vehicle is currently at: [XXX] Ongoing Safety Concerns:- Engine misfires- Highway hesitation- Severe shaking- Oil pressure faults - Possible engine failure- Risk of power loss while driving I am still making monthly payments on this vehicle despite these ongoing failures. Personal Impact: I depend on this vehicle for work and family safety. These repeated failures have caused fear, financial burden, and stress. I was also forced to rent a vehicle due to delays in loaner availability. VIN: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATIO [XXX] S.C. 552(B)(6) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOI

Filed Apr 14, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · GA

On December 28, 2025, while driving normally with my children, my 2024 Chevrolet Trax displayed multiple warnings including Engine Power Reduced, Service ESC, Service Stability, and Steering Assist Reduced. The engine began sputtering and knocking. The next morning the vehicle would not start and was towed to Malcolm Cunningham Chevrolet. The dealership found the engine free-wheeling with no compression and denied my warranty claim alleging spark plug tampering. I never touched the engine. It went directly from my driveway to the dealership via tow. An active recall — A242435780, Engine Spark Timing Following Auto Stop Event — was noted on the repair order upon arrival but was not completed until February 17, 2026, seven weeks after the engine failed. GM’s own recall states engine knock and engine damage are the known risks of this unrepaired fault. The dealership told me verbally it was just a console update, directly contradicting GM’s published description. A second dealership performed a compression test showing Cylinder 1 at 10 PSI, Cylinder 2 at 90 PSI, and Cylinder 3 at 0 PSI. Normal compression is 150 to 200 PSI. No diagnostic codes were retrievable. This dealership initially found something different but reversed their position after speaking with the first dealership and receiving direction from GM. GM denied my warranty claim and offered only a $2,000 incentive toward a new vehicle. The vehicle remains completely unrepaired. I continue making monthly payments on a car I cannot drive. This aligns with class action Cook v. General Motors LLC, Case 1:26-cv-00229-RGA, filed March 4, 2026.

Filed Apr 9, 2026 · Engine · IL

My engine failed with no warning on my 2024 Chevy Trax , at night in the express lanes of a very busy expressway in Chicago. I was able to get on an off ramp, but the car then stalled again and I was almost hit by other vehicles trying to exit the ramp. I did call 911 and was told to stay in my car because I would have a "better chance of survival". I had just had the car at the dealership for an oil change and check-up a few weeks before. The dealer explanation was the engine is defective and they replaced the engine, but I have no confidence in this car. I told the dealer and they did not seem to care. I have had nothing but problems with this car, it is a danger to myself and others driving this car.

Related recalls

No recalls on record for this model year.

Questions about the Chevrolet Trax engine failure

Which Chevrolet Trax years have engine failure problems?

The model years with the most reports are 2024 (27 complaints), 2015 (4 complaints) and 2017 (4 complaints).

How much does it cost to fix engine failure on the Chevrolet Trax?

Owners who mentioned a price put the repair at about $7,600 (median of 5 complaints that include a dollar amount). Costs vary with mileage, warranty and where the work is done.

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