2021 Chevrolet Trax problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
A typical year for this model
The 2021 Chevrolet Trax sits mid-pack among Trax years: 37 NHTSA complaints against a model median of roughly 137, with no recalls and no defect investigations.
No single system dominates the record — complaints spread across electrical system (9), engine (7), and brakes (6), which usually points to general build quality rather than one defect. In government crash testing it earned 5 of 5 NCAP stars overall.
37
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
0
Investigations
7
Crash-involved
2
Fires reported
5
Injuries
0
Deaths
5
NCAP overall · of 5 stars
How does 2021 compare to other Trax years?
What are the most common 2021 Chevrolet Trax problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical System | 9 | 24% | ▼ down |
| Engine | 7 | 19% | ▼ down |
| Brakes | 6 | 16% | ▼ down |
| Other | 3 | 8% | ▼ down |
| Transmission | 3 | 8% | ▼ down |
| Airbags | 2 | 5% | ▼ down |
| Fuel System | 2 | 5% | ▼ down |
| Seat Belts | 1 | 3% | ▼ down |
| Body & Structure | 1 | 3% | ▼ down |
| Suspension | 1 | 3% | ▼ down |
| Driver Assistance | 1 | 3% | — flat |
| Visibility & Wipers | 1 | 3% | ▼ down |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Trax. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 mph, the AC unit was distributing hot air. The contact detected white smoke emerging from the engine compartment and the vehicle caught fire. The contact was able to pull over and exit the vehicle without…”
“The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Trax. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 mph, the AC unit was distributing hot air. The contact detected white smoke emerging from the engine compartment and the vehicle caught fire. The contact was able to pull over and exit the vehicle without…”
“My car is only at around 37,7000 miles. My I have only had it since it was around 15,000 miles. My battery has died at least 4 times due to my alternator having problems charging. My brakes have also gone out on me at one point in the beginning. My battery is now trash and so is my alternator. ”
“The vehicle has 2 permanent codes. One is a communication blackout, the other code means the hardware is melting. GM is doing a formal inspection in April. The Ucode meant that the engine stopped talking to the transmission or visa versa. The vehicle âran my daughter and Iâ off the highway into…”
“The front exhaust flex pipe leaked by a corrosive hole that allowed exhaust and CO carbon monoxide to escape making the drivers dizzy, nauseated, and with a headache. This also caused the vehicle to smoke, run rough and stall in traffic. This also required the post 02 sensor to be replaced.”
2021 Chevrolet Trax — common questions
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Trax reliable?
Its record is better than the model's norm: 37 NHTSA complaints, below the typical Trax year, with 0 recalls and no open investigations.
What are the most common 2021 Trax problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are electrical system (9 complaints), engine (7 complaints), brakes (6 complaints).
Does the 2021 Chevrolet Trax have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2021 Chevrolet Trax.
Which Chevrolet Trax years should you avoid?
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the Trax years to avoid are 2024, 2013. The cleanest record among Trax years belongs to 2014.
How safe is the 2021 Chevrolet Trax?
In NHTSA's NCAP crash testing, the 2021 Chevrolet Trax earned an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
Related
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.