Dealer visit checklist
2018 Chevrolet Traverse checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2018 Chevrolet Traverse problems to check
- Timing chain tensioner wear and engine oil consumption issues reported on the 3.6L V6 — monitor oil level between changes
- Infotainment system (MyLink) freezing or rebooting, often requiring a software update or head-unit replacement
- Transmission shudder or hesitation on the 9-speed automatic, particularly during low-speed shifts — a known GM bulletin issue
- Rear HVAC evaporator leaks leading to coolant smell inside the cabin, a moderately expensive repair at $600–$900
- Premature wear on front struts and sway bar end-links around 60,000–80,000 miles, adding unexpected suspension costs
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles.
- AIR BAGS:CRITICAL FASTENERS: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2015, 2017 Buick Enclave, 2010-2019 Chevrolet Traverse, and 2011-2016 GMC Acadia vehicles.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $23,000 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away