IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2014–2015 Chevrolet Trax

We've identified 2 known issues that can affect the 2014–2015 Chevrolet Trax. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

2
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

1.7 VCDi Alternator and Vacuum Pump Oil Seal Leak

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

The 1.7-litre VCDi diesel engine uses an alternator design that incorporates a rear-mounted mechanical vacuum pump to provide brake servo assistance. The internal oil seal between the pressurized engine lubrication gallery and the electrical alternator can fail over time, permitting engine oil to leak directly into the alternator windings. This leads to electrical short circuits, charging warning alerts, flat batteries, and degraded brake booster vacuum assist.

Est. Repair Cost: £380–£750
Warning Signs:

Battery charging warning lamp illuminated on the instrument cluster while driving, Flickering dashboard lighting, headlamp dimming, or electrical gremlins at idle, Fresh engine oil dripping from the lower alternator casing onto the engine undertray, Progressively firmer brake pedal feel when coming to a halt from speed

What to Inspect:
  • Look underneath the alternator with a torch to inspect for wet engine oil weeping from the vacuum pump junction
  • Verify steady charging output across the battery terminals (13.8V to 14.4V) with the engine running
  • Scan the onboard diagnostic memory for alternator field circuit and low-voltage trouble codes
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

1.4 Turbo Coolant Leaks and Water Pump Failure

ModerateCooling System

On 1.4-litre turbocharged Ecotec petrol models, the plastic water outlet manifold, thermostat housing, and water pump are prone to thermal fatigue and cracking. Under UK stop-start driving and thermal cycling, the composite plastic becomes brittle, developing hairline cracks that weep coolant. Furthermore, the internal mechanical seal and bearings in the water pump can degrade, causing coolant loss, sweet-smelling cabin fumes, and risking severe cylinder head gasket overheating.

Est. Repair Cost: £220–£550
Warning Signs:

Sweet antifreeze odour inside the car or around the radiator grille after parking, Persistent low coolant level in the expansion tank requiring regular top-ups, Dried pink or orange crystalline residue around the thermostat housing and water pump pulley, Engine temperature warning light illumination or cooling fan running constantly at high speed

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the plastic water outlet housing on the gearbox end of the cylinder head for dampness or weeping
  • Check the water pump casing beneath the auxiliary drive belt for bearing play and active coolant stains
  • Examine the expansion tank overflow return nipple and plastic hoses for hairline fractures
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2014–2015 Chevrolet Trax

  • Thoroughly inspect the 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine cooling system for brittle plastic fittings, weeping water pumps, and cracked thermostat housings
  • Check 1.7-litre VCDi diesel models for oil level elevation on the dipstick caused by repeated uncompleted DPF regenerations during short town journeys
  • Test all electrical accessories, steering-wheel controls, and the central Chevrolet MyLink touchscreen infotainment system for responsive operation
  • Listen for suspension knocking or rattles over rough road surfaces, checking anti-roll bar drop links and strut top mount bearings for wear
  • Verify that routine servicing intervals have been adhered to, ensuring high-grade dexos2 engine oil has been used on both petrol and diesel engines
2013
Check a 2014–2015 Chevrolet Trax by Registration