As a Chief Mechanic with years of experience in repairing Chevy vehicles, I have encountered various transmission issues, and the 2016 Chevy Traverse transmission slipping is one of them. The 2016 Chevy Traverse is a great car with excellent features, but it can experience transmission problems, mainly when the car is driven for an extended period. If you’re experiencing transmission slipping in your 2016 Chevy Traverse, don’t worry; this article will help you understand the causes and solutions.
Also read: Chevy Traverse A/C Light Blinking: Causes and Solutions
What is Transmission Slipping?
Before we dive into the causes and solutions of transmission slipping, let’s first understand what transmission slipping is. Transmission slipping is a problem that occurs when the transmission in your car fails to engage properly. It can occur in various forms, such as the car not accelerating as expected, losing power when driving, or revving up without moving forward. These symptoms are usually signs that your transmission is slipping, and it’s essential to have it checked as soon as possible.
Causes of 2016 Chevy Traverse Transmission Slipping
- Low Transmission Fluid: Low transmission fluid is one of the primary causes of transmission slipping in any car, including the 2016 Chevy Traverse. The fluid serves as a lubricant and helps keep the transmission running smoothly. When the fluid level is low, the transmission can overheat, leading to slipping.
- Faulty Solenoid: Solenoids control the flow of transmission fluid in your car’s transmission system. When the solenoid is faulty, it can cause your transmission to slip, jerk, or shift properly.
- Worn-out Clutch: The clutch transfers power from the engine to the transmission. When the clutch is worn out, it can cause slipping, making it difficult for the car to accelerate.
- Torque Converter: The torque converter is responsible for transmitting power from the engine to the transmission. When faulty, it can cause transmission slipping and difficulty accelerating.
- Electronic Control Module (ECM) Failure: The ECM controls the transmission’s shifting and other functions. When it fails, it can cause the transmission to slip, jerk, or even fail to shift.
Solutions to 2016 Chevy Traverse Transmission Slipping
Now that we understand the causes of transmission slipping in the 2016 Chevy Traverse let’s explore the possible solutions.
- Check and Fill the Transmission Fluid: If your car’s transmission is slipping, you should check the transmission fluid level first. Low transmission fluid levels can cause transmission slipping; topping it off can solve the problem. It is essential to use the recommended transmission fluid for your car to avoid any damage to the transmission.
- Replace the Faulty Solenoid: A faulty solenoid can cause the transmission to slip or not shift properly. Replacing the solenoid can help restore the proper functioning of the transmission.
- Repair or Replace the Clutch: A worn-out clutch can cause transmission to slip, making it difficult for the car to accelerate. Repairing or replacing the clutch can solve the problem.
- Repair or Replace the Torque Converter: A faulty torque converter can cause transmission slipping and difficulty in accelerating. Repairing or replacing the torque converter can solve the problem.
- Replace the Electronic Control Module (ECM): If the ECM fails, it can cause transmission slipping, jerking, or even failure to shift. Replacing the ECM can help restore the proper functioning of the transmission.
Preventing 2016 Chevy Traverse Transmission Slipping
Prevention is always better than cure. To prevent transmission slipping in your 2016 Chevy Traverse, you should:
- Ensure that the transmission fluid level is always within the recommended range.
- Change the transmission fluid regularly. The recommended interval for changing transmission fluid is every 30,000 miles or as specified in the owner’s manual.
- Avoid overloading the car or towing beyond the recommended weight limit.
- Ensure the clutch is always engaged fully when shifting gears to prevent premature wear.
- Avoid sudden stops and starts, especially when the car is still cold.
In summary, transmission slipping is a common problem in the 2016 Chevy Traverse. Low transmission fluid, faulty solenoids, worn-out clutch, faulty torque converter, and ECM failure are common causes of transmission slipping. The good news is that there are solutions to these problems, and preventive measures can be taken to avoid transmission slipping. If you’re experiencing transmission slipping in your 2016 Chevy Traverse, seek professional help immediately to prevent further damage to the transmission. Regular maintenance and servicing of the car can also help avoid problems in transmission and ensure optimal performance.