Segment:
Subcompact Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Urban dwellers, first-time car buyers, budget-conscious consumers seeking practicality and fuel efficiency in a compact package.
Key Competitors 2014:
Nissan Juke, Ford EcoSport, Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, Kia Soul, Hyundai Veloster.
Practicality:
Designed for urban maneuverability and versatile interior space for its class.
Fuel Efficiency:
Emphasis on economical operation, particularly with the smaller engine options.
Styling:
Distinctive, somewhat polarizing crossover styling that differentiates it from traditional sedans and hatchbacks.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, starting, charging, engine performance diagnostics, computer controls (ECU/ECM)
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (M32/6T40 family), torque converter, transmission control module (TCM), manual transmission (if applicable, though less common for Trax in 2014), clutch system
Drivetrain Systems:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, all-wheel drive (AWD) system (if applicable), driveshafts, CV joints, differential
Suspension Systems:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints), rear suspension (torsion beam axle/multi-link depending on market/drivetrain), shock absorbers, springs, wheel bearings
Steering Systems:
Power steering system (electric power steering - EPS), steering column, tie rods, steering gear/rack and pinion
Brake Systems:
Front disc brakes, rear drum/disc brakes (depending on configuration), ABS system, hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), body control module (BCM), fuse box locations and schematics, wiring diagrams
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser, climate control module
Body Systems:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, seats, airbags, safety restraint systems (SRS)
Infotainment Systems:
Radio, speakers, display units, navigation (if equipped), connectivity features
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, symptom-based diagnostics, component testing
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul of all major vehicle systems
Wiring Information:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits, including component locations and connector pinouts
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications for fasteners, engine clearances, alignment specifications, fluid capacities and types
Special Tools And Equipment:
Identification of necessary specialized tools for specific repair procedures
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls, electrical diagnostics, and body repairs.
Engine Option 1:
1.4L Turbocharged Ecotec (LUJ/LUV)
Engine Displacement Option 1:
1364 cc (83.2 cu in)
Engine Configuration Option 1:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged
Horsepower Option 1:
138 hp @ 4900 rpm
Torque Option 1:
148 lb-ft @ 1850-2500 rpm
Engine Option 2:
1.8L Ecotec (2H0/LDE)
Engine Displacement Option 2:
1796 cc (109.6 cu in)
Engine Configuration Option 2:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
Horsepower Option 2:
138 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque Option 2:
125 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition (DIS)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4/5 Stars (overall) - 2014 Model Year
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, side-impact airbags, roof rail airbags (typically standard).
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners in all seating positions.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed. Typically recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Typically recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Iridium spark plugs typically rated for 90,000-100,000 miles (145,000-160,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Inspect periodically. Fluid change recommended around 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km), or per manual depending on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Specification 1.4T:
API SN, ILSAC GF-5, SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil. Meets GM dexos1™ specification.
Engine Oil Specification 1.8L:
API SN, ILSAC GF-5, SAE 5W-30 conventional or synthetic oil. Meets GM dexos1™ specification.
Coolant Specification:
GM P/N 12346290 (Orange) or equivalent. Use a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol coolant and deionized water.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) for 6-speed automatic. Check manual for specific fill procedures.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Complaint 1:
Turbocharger issues: oil leaks, wastegate actuator problems, and occasional turbocharger failure, particularly in earlier models or those with less diligent maintenance. The 1.4T engine is sensitive to oil quality and timely changes.
Common Complaint 2:
Coolant leaks: particularly from the water pump or thermostat housing can occur.
Common Complaint 3:
Transmission shift quality: some owners report occasional harsh shifts or delayed engagement, though the 6T40 is generally reliable when properly maintained.
Common Complaint 4:
Electrical gremlins: battery drain issues, malfunctioning power windows, or infotainment system glitches have been reported, often related to module communication or software.
Chevrolet History:
Founded in 1911, Chevrolet is a division of General Motors (GM), known for a wide range of vehicles from small cars to trucks and performance vehicles.
Trax Introduction:
The Chevrolet Trax was introduced globally in 2012 as a subcompact crossover SUV, designed to compete in the growing urban crossover segment. The North American market received the Trax starting with the 2013 model year.
Gm Platform Sharing:
The Trax shares its GM Gamma II platform with other GM vehicles such as the Chevrolet Sonic and Buick Encore, indicating a focus on shared components and development for cost-efficiency.
Production Location 2014:
North American models primarily produced at GM's assembly plant in Bupyeong, South Korea (formerly Daewoo).