Chevrolet Traverse vs Ford Explorer
For 2008–2022 models, the Chevrolet Traverse has 31.3 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 54.1 for the Ford Explorer. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2008–2022), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Chevrolet Traverse
31.3 complaints per 10,000 sold
42% fewer than the Ford Explorer
- Complaints
- 5,017
- Sold
- 1,600,686
- Recall campaigns
- 26
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2009–2011 and 2014. Fewest: 2008, 2013 and 2021–2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 74,975 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 63,000 mi
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 68,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 49,000 mi
-
Transmission control module and sensors
Typically around 43,300 mi
Ford Explorer
54.1 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.7× the Chevrolet Traverse’s rate
- Complaints
- 15,014
- Sold
- 2,775,428
- Recall campaigns
- 72
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2011, 2013–2014 and 2016. Fewest: 2009 and 2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 82,000 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 78,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 77,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 88,300 mi
-
Water leaks and seals
Typically around 60,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Traverse or the Ford Explorer?
For 2008–2022 models, the Chevrolet Traverse has 31.3 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Ford Explorer has 54.1, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Chevrolet Traverse?
The most-reported problem on the Chevrolet Traverse is body control and other modules, typically around 74,975 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Explorer?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Explorer is doors, windows, latches, seats and trim, typically around 82,000 miles.
Which Chevrolet Traverse and Ford Explorer years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Traverse: 2009–2011 and 2014; Ford Explorer: 2011, 2013–2014 and 2016.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.