The Chevrolet Trax has earned fans across the compact SUV market for its city-friendly handling and everyday practicality. Whether you're considering buying a Trax or already own one, understanding how long it can stay on the road is key. Our team at Huffines Chevrolet Lewisville breaks down what you can expect from a Trax, the factors that affect its longevity, and tips to keep yours running strong for years to come.
Overview of the Chevrolet Trax
Introduced in 2015, the Chevrolet Trax quickly made a name for itself in the subcompact crossover SUV segment. Built for urban driving, it appeals to those who want SUV versatility with excellent fuel efficiency. The 2024 model sold over 200,000 units in the United States, with sales rising 15.4% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to 2023.
The current Trax features a 1.2-liter turbocharged engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy stands at 28 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. Starting at $20,500 for the base LS trim, it delivers strong value with 25.6 cubic feet of cargo space (expanding to 54.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded) and 36.7 inches of rear legroom—ideal for daily commutes or weekend adventures.
Chevrolet Trax Life Expectancy
With proper care, a Chevrolet Trax typically lasts 150,000 to 200,000 miles—roughly 12 years for the average driver. That places it competitively among other compact SUVs and, in some cases, ahead of them in long-term durability.
The Trax’s solid construction contributes to its impressive lifespan. Factors such as driving habits, maintenance consistency, accident history, and climate exposure all play key roles. Highway-driven Trax models tend to last longer than those used primarily in stop-and-go city traffic, and vehicles in mild climates often outlast those exposed to harsh winters and road salt.
Factors That Influence a Chevrolet Trax’s Longevity
Driving habits directly impact your Trax’s lifespan. Gentle acceleration and braking preserve parts far better than aggressive driving. Highway miles create less wear than city driving, and extreme temperatures can stress your vehicle’s systems. Following Chevrolet’s recommended maintenance schedule—oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections—helps prevent small issues from becoming major problems. Using high-quality parts and fluids also protects your engine over time.
Environmental factors matter too. Road salt can lead to corrosion if not promptly cleaned off, while excessive sunlight fades paint and damages interior materials. Regular washing, waxing, and garage parking (or use of a car cover) can significantly extend your Trax’s appearance and lifespan.
What Is Considered High Mileage for a Chevrolet Trax?
For compact SUVs like the Trax, “high mileage” varies by condition. Most consider 150,000 miles the start of high-mileage territory—but that’s not a hard cutoff. Many well-maintained Trax vehicles run reliably well past this mark.
Condition matters more than mileage. A Trax with 150,000 well-maintained highway miles can be a smarter buy than one with 100,000 neglected city miles. As mileage increases, monitor the suspension, transmission performance, and engine behavior for early signs of wear. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent expensive repairs later. With consistent care, even a high-mileage Trax can have years of dependable life left.
Maintaining Your Chevrolet Trax for Longevity
Sticking to Chevrolet’s maintenance schedule is the best way to maximize your Trax’s life.
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Oil Changes: Every 7,500 miles or annually, using the recommended oil type.
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Tire Rotation & Alignment: Rotate tires every 7,500 miles and align annually or if you notice uneven wear.
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Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000–30,000 miles depending on conditions.
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Brake Checks: Most brake pads last 30,000–70,000 miles, depending on driving style.
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Fluid Levels: Regularly check coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid.
These small habits can add years to your Trax’s lifespan and reduce repair costs over time.
Preventive Care Tips
Address warning lights or unusual noises right away. Always use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or high-quality aftermarket parts, and refill with the correct fluids. Protect your interior with sunshades, UV-blocking seat covers, and regular cleaning to prevent premature wear.
Chevrolet Trax Reliability and Performance
The Trax stands out for its reliability in the compact SUV class. RepairPal gives it a 4.0 out of 5.0 rating, ranking 6th among 7 subcompact SUVs. Owners spend about $488 annually on repairs, only slightly above the $466 class average.
Its strengths include nimble handling, easy maneuverability, and excellent fuel economy. While some drivers notice minor body roll during cornering, this is typical for its class. Earlier model years occasionally faced transmission or oil leak issues, but these have become rare. The 2022 Trax earned a strong 83/100 reliability score, reflecting Chevrolet’s ongoing improvements.
Chevrolet Trax Reliability Ratings
Recent models continue to perform well. For 2024–2025, CarComplaints.com recorded only 63 complaints, representing less than 0.03% of all units sold. This exceptionally low rate underscores strong owner satisfaction and consistent build quality—making the Trax one of the most dependable choices in its class.
Maximizing Your Chevrolet Trax’s Lifespan
With proper maintenance and smart driving, your Trax can easily surpass 150,000 miles—and possibly reach 200,000 or more. Stay current on oil changes, rotate your tires regularly, and fix small issues early to avoid costly repairs. A well-maintained Trax isn’t just transportation—it’s a reliable companion for daily drives and weekend adventures alike.
Test-Drive a Chevrolet Trax Today
Want to learn more about getting the most out of your Trax—or explore the latest models? Visit Huffines Chevrolet Lewisville to schedule a test-drive, chat with our experts, or get personalized maintenance advice to keep your Trax running smoothly for years to come.