Three-rowed full-size SUVs are among the most popular vehicle segments among American families. In recent years, many manufacturers have come up with eye-catching SUVs to take advantage of this high-demand market. Chevrolet introduced the Traverse to the market in 2008 as a 2009 model year.

The new 2022 Chevy Traverse offers a potent V6 powertrain, excellent fuel economy, and an unmatched level of refinement. However, with a $33,700 starting price, many might rather compromise the quirkiest tech and safety features for a lower price tag by opting for a second-hand model on the used market.

The first generation of the Traverse (2009-2017) can be an excellent family hauler for buyers on a tight budget. However, like any other SUV, the Traverse had its fair share of problems and headaches throughout the years. Because of that, it is critical to choose the proper trim and model year to ensure you’re not spending your money on an unreliable car. Without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the notable first-gen Traverses available on the used market.

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Highest Trim: The 2017 Traverse Premier Offers Luxury And Performance

2013 Chevrolet Traverse In Black
Via Chevrolet

If you’re looking for the best deal a first-gen Chevy Traverse can offer, you should opt for the 2017 Premier trim. Under the Hood, the Traverse Premier offers a 3.6L V6 capable of producing 288 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission system aids the motor in transferring the power to the front wheels as standard. However, an AWD drivetrain is available as an option.

Fuel Economy is definitely not an advantage point for the 2017 Chevy Traverse. According to the official EPA estimations, the AWD Traverse puts out 15 miles to the city and 22 on the highway (17 MPG combined). Average gas costs sit at $293 per month, about $45 higher than other SUVs. With a full tank, it gives 396 miles of range.

With the Premier trim, Chevrolet offered 20-inch aluminum wheels, leather upholstery in the interior, a heated steering wheel, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning.

RELATED: 10 Most Reliable Full-Size SUVs On The Market In 2022

Most Cost-Efficient: Avoid Early Model Years For Their Widespread Problems

2013 Chevrolet Traverse in Red
Via Chevrolet

Although models from 2009 through 2012 come with lower price tags on the used market, we highly recommend skipping them due to many problems and headaches. According to the Car Complaints website, these models have the highest number of registered owner complaints in the whole history of the Chevy Traverse.

The 2010 Traverse, for example, was notorious for timing chain issues and complete engine failures at relatively low mileage. Also, several owners have complained the power steering ceases to work randomly, making it difficult to maneuver the vehicle. The Same problems--in addition to brakes issues and malfunctioning AC units--plague 2009, 2011, and 2012 models.

Moreover, older models typically have more miles on the odometer, making them unreliable SUVs in the long run.

On the other hand, the 2013 Chevrolet Traverse has significantly fewer owner complaints and is generally considered a more valuable vehicle to buy used. The entry-level model, The Traverse LS, Comes with a 281-horsepower V6 powertrain and a six-speed automatic. Regarding fuel economy, you can expect up to 17 miles per gallon in the city and 24 on the highway.

The base model comes with 17-inch steel wheels, a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and keyless entry.

According to the prices posted on the Kelley Blue Book website, you can find a used 2013 Traverse LS for around $8,000-9,000.

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Best Value: The 2016 Traverse LT Is A Good Value For A Full-Size SUV Under $15k

2013 Chevrolet Traverse In Black Rear View
Via Chevrolet

Finally, the 2016 Chevy Traverse LT offers a lot of bang for the buck on the used market. Similar to the previous model we discussed, the 2016 Traverse comes with a 3.6L V6 that puts out 281 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. You can expect 17 MPG combined (15 city/22 highway).

With the LT trim, Chevrolet steps up the Traverse by adding 18-inch aluminum wheels, remote start, tri-zone climate control, and a 10-speaker Bose stereo system.

According to various reputable sources, the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse can last about a quarter-million miles with the original engine and transmission. However, without regular maintenance, you should expect major powertrain overhauls around the 150,000-mile mark.

Based on the estimations of the Repair Pal website, the annual maintenance costs of the 2016 Chevy Traverse are similar to other full-size SUVs on the market, around $485 per year.

Last but not least, regardless of the model you want to get, consult with a trusted mechanic to ensure the previous owner has regularly serviced the vehicle and hasn’t put the powertrain through too much abuse.