🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Traverse

Model Years Covered:

2009, 2010, 2011, 2012

Chassis Code:

GMT969

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Mid-size crossover SUV, competing with models like the Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, and Honda Pilot.

Key Competitors:

Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, Mazda CX-9

Vehicle Platform:

GM Lambda platform

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size Crossover SUV

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides the same in-depth technical information used by dealership technicians, empowering owners to perform complex repairs and maintenance.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Factory Service Workshop Repair

Scope:

Comprehensive repair and maintenance

Estimated Count:

Over 2000 pages (typical for this era of factory service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF with Index

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, valve train, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, engine overhaul

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine controls, sensors, wiring diagrams

Emission Control:

Emission control systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to emissions, evaporative emission control (EVAP), exhaust gas recirculation (EGR)

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel filter, fuel lines, throttle body, fuel pressure testing

Clutch System:

Clutch operation, clutch release system (applicable for potential manual transmission variants, though less common in Traverse)

Manual Transaxle:

Manual transaxle internal components, removal, installation, repair procedures (if applicable)

Automatic Transaxle:

6-speed automatic transaxle (e.g., 6T75), transmission removal, overhaul, electronic controls, fluid specifications, torque converter

Driveshaft Axle:

Driveshaft, CV joints, axles, wheel bearings, differential service

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (independent multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, power steering pump, steering column, wheel alignment

Restraint System:

Airbags, seat belts, SRS system components, diagnostic procedures

Brake System:

Front and rear brakes (disc brakes), brake calipers, rotors, pads, hydraulic system, ABS, traction control, parking brake

Body Interior Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, trim, interior components, seating

Body Electrical:

Lighting, power windows, power locks, mirrors, interior electronics, instrument cluster, audio system, body control module (BCM)

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, climate control module, blower motor

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, brake inspections

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, common fault identification, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, DTC interpretation

Repair:

Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures (e.g., engine, transmission), system repairs

Diagnostics:

Electrical system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics, HVAC system diagnostics

Depth:

Deep diagnostic and repair procedures, including full rebuilds and complex electrical troubleshooting

User Suitability:

Suitable for experienced DIYers and professional technicians

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Searchable PDF, enabling quick navigation and information retrieval

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

LLT

Engine Type:

3.6L V6 DOHC DI (Direct Injection)

Horsepower:

281 hp @ 6400 rpm (2009-2011), 288 hp @ 6400 rpm (2012)

Torque:

266 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (2009-2011), 270 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (2012)

Fuel Delivery:

Direct Injection (DI)

Fuel Type:

Regular Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

Bore X Stroke:

94.0 mm x 85.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

11.3:1

Valvetrain:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, Variable Valve Timing (VVT)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed automatic (Hydra-Matic 6T75)

Optional Transmission:

N/A (All models equipped with automatic)

Transmission Features:

Driver Shift Control (manual mode), electronically controlled with overdrive

📐 Dimensions

Length:

202.0 inches (5131 mm)

Width:

78.4 inches (1991 mm)

Height:

69.9 inches (1775 mm)

Wheelbase:

118.5 inches (3010 mm)

Curb Weight:

4,715 - 4,918 lbs (2139 - 2231 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

6,300 - 6,600 lbs (2858 - 2994 kg) depending on configuration

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

24.4 cu ft (691 L)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

67.3 cu ft (1906 L)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

116.9 cu ft (3309 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

5-Star (for 2009-2012 models, depending on configuration and year)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for select years and configurations)

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Passive Safety:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, roof-mounted side curtain airbags (for all rows), active head restraints

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available touch-screen infotainment systems with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and rear-seat entertainment options depending on trim.

Driver Assistance Features:

Rear parking assist, rearview camera (available on higher trims), blind-spot monitoring (available on later models/trims within this range).

Connectivity Options:

USB ports, auxiliary audio input, Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, or as indicated by the oil life monitoring system.

Tire Rotation Interval:

7,500 miles (12,000 km)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Refer to manual for severe duty intervals, typically around 60,000-100,000 miles, or as indicated by the vehicle's maintenance schedule. Fluid type is critical.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (API SN or dexos1 compliant)

Engine Oil Capacity:

5.5 quarts (5.2 Liters) with filter change

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron VI

Coolant Type:

GM's Orange Dex-Cool (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problems:

Timing chain issues (though less prevalent in the DI 3.6 compared to earlier versions), direct injection carbon buildup on intake valves, transmission solenoid issues, water pump leaks, and some electrical glitches (e.g., power liftgate).

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Chevrolet, a division of General Motors (GM)

Generation:

First Generation (2007-2017), this manual covers the early years of the first generation.

Introduction Year:

2007 (as a 2008 model year vehicle)

Assembly Locations:

Lansing Delta Township, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Award Examples:

KBB.com listed the Traverse as a 'Best Family Car' and it has often received good reviews for its spacious interior and comfortable ride in its class.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Varied reliability ratings over the years, with some common issues noted (refer to 'known_issues'). The manual is crucial for proactive maintenance.