Holden Trax Problems & Potential Issues: 2013-2020

Understanding Holden Trax problems is crucial for current owners or new buyers planning to purchase a used one. With information regarding the common issues, you can make an informed buying decision or prevent your vehicle from potential issues that require costly repair if not fixed promptly.

After dealing with many Holden Trax owners and resolving their frequently reported problems, I will assist you in understanding the Holden Trax common problems, symptoms of each issue, and causes behind each fault.

Additionally, we will examine some useful guidelines that can help you protect your vehicle from critical issues and keep it healthy, optimal, and reliable.

Holden Trax: Overview

The Holden Trax, also known as the Chevrolet Trax, is a popular crossover SUV in many countries due to its stylish design, practicality, versatility, and comfort riding. In Australia and New Zealand, it was marketed as Holden Trax, while in several other markets like Mexico, South Korea, Canada, & Germany, it was famous as Chevrolet Tracker. 

General Motors started manufacturing the Holden Trax in 2013, and eventually, in 2020, the first generation was replaced with the Chevrolet Seeker. Although it has a stylish look and unique features, there are also commonly reported issues by the current owners.

Holden Trax problems

Here’s the breakdown of problems with Holden Trax that many drivers/owners often report.

Holden Trax transmission problems 

The first and most common Holden Trax problems are transmission-related. A properly maintained and healthy transmission system is crucial for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. 

Many owners experience different transmission system issues, such as jerks or stalling while accelerating, gears slipping, fluid leakage, whining, squeaking, grinding or shaking noises, clutch failure, dashboard warning, and complete transmission failure. Timely fixing these issues is important because, if not addressed promptly, they can lead to safety risks and severe damage. 

The symptoms and causes below will help you diagnose the issues. 

Symptoms 

• Delayed responses while changing gears
• Unusual noises during gear change
• Slipping transmission
• Illumination of warning lights on the dashboard
• Burning smell

Causes 

• Transmission fluids leakage
• Clutch failure
• Worn-out components
• Faulty transmission control module
• Solenoids and torque converter issues

Electrical system issues

There have been complaints about electrical system malfunctions that cause owners concerns and difficulties. These electric issues include unexpected battery drainage, blown fuses, ignition system defects, infotainment system faults, interior and exterior lights, and the triggering of electric fault-related warning lights on the dashboard.

The modern vehicle’s electric system is advanced and complex, so detecting electrical faults might be challenging for owners. You must visit the nearest expert mechanic shop to diagnose and resolve issues. 

Symptoms 

• Unexpected battery drainage
• Infotainment system malfunctions
• Flickering lights
• Inconsistent operation of power windows and locks
• Problems with power windows, mirrors, or locks

Causes

• Weak, dead, or old battery
• Faulty electrical components 
• Malfunctioning ignition coils
• Computer system issues
• Damaged or faulty wiring

Turbocharger problems

Holden Trax turbo problems are frequently reported in models equipped with a turbocharged system. Implementing the turbo system aims to boost the engine’s power so that more air enters the combustion chamber, resulting in a sudden power boost. 

When the turbocharger becomes faulty or malfunctioning, it badly affects the engine’s health and reduces power delivery efficiency. These symptoms can help determine whether Holden Trax turbo problems occur, and if they are monitored correctly, you need to diagnose the possible causes to find the culprit.

Symptoms 

• Blinking of the check engine light
• Reduced fuel economy
• Loss of power or acceleration
• Excessive exhaust smoke
• Unusual noises from the turbocharger

Causes 

• Insufficient engine lubrication
• Damaged or worn-out turbocharger components
• Clogged or dirty air filters
• Leaks in the turbocharger system
• Catalytic converter issues

Holden Trax fuel system issues

The fuel system’s function is to manage fuel and deliver the right amount to the engine. The engine then consumes the fuel for combustion and maintains its health and performance.

The common fuel system issues include a decrease in efficiency, which results in higher fuel combustion, loss of power under acceleration, difficulty starting the vehicle, and engine stalling at high temperatures.

These Holden Trax problems are triggered when any fuel system component is clogged, damaged, or malfunctioning.

Symptoms

• Difficulty starting the car
• Engine misfires or hesitation
• Fuel tank whining noise
• Leaking fuel
• Poor fuel efficiency

Causes 

• Clogged fuel filter
• Faulty fuel pump
• Clogged fuel injectors
• Problems with the fuel pressure regulator
• Engine issues

Brake system problems

Many owners have reported problems with the braking system, such as grinding or squealing noises while pressing the brake pedals, vibrations, fluid leakage, and burning smells in hot temperatures. 

Correctly functioning brakes are mandatory for a safe ride because their issues can directly affect the vehicle’s safety, causing potential damage and leading to costly repair or replacement. Timely repairing brake issues is vital to prevent critical damage to the vehicle.

Symptoms 

• Squeaking or grinding noises when braking
• The brake warning light on the dashboard
• Signs of brake fluid leakage
• Soft or spongy brake pedal
• Increased stopping distance

Causes 

• Problems with the anti-lock braking system (ABS)
• Damaged brake caliper
• Bad master cylinder
• Overheating
• Air in brake fluid

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Holden Trax years to avoid

Not every Holden Trax model year can be considered problematic, but some years are highlighted as the most problematic, and issues are frequently reported compared to other models. 

You must carefully diagnose these years for long-term usage and positive ownership experience. The table below highlights the Holden Trax years to avoid, common issues reported, and reasons to avoid them.

Model Year	Reasons To Avoid	Common Problems Reported
2015	Early production issues	Transmission problems, engine stalling, electrical issues
2016	Continued transmission and engine issues	Transmission slipping, turbocharger problems, engine hesitation
2017	Persistent problems despite updates	Fuel system issues, brake system problems, suspension problems
2018	Electrical and turbocharger-related complaints	Electrical system malfunctions, turbocharger issues, air conditioning problems

Holden Trax review

You must understand that only some owners report Holden Trax problems, while many have positive feedback and reviews regarding the vehicle’s usability and performance. The Holden Trax is a small SUV suitable for three to four members traveling. If you plan to buy a car for your family, search for a medium-sized SUV with enough space for members.

The Holden Trax reviews on platforms like forums and YouTube will help you get significant information. You can explore what people share after experiencing the vehicle for many years. Here’s the automotive professional review to help you research the best vehicle.

The Holden Trax is a small crossover SUV with the latest advanced features for better and more reliable usage. However, there are also common Holden Trax problems that should be addressed and carefully monitored before buying.

After understanding the major problems such as automatic transmission issues, electric malfunctions, turbocharger faults, and fuel & brake system problems, owners can protect their vehicles from severe damage, and new buyers can make a good purchase. 

Regular maintenance, promptly addressing issues, making timely repairs, adopting good driving habits, and using quality parts can contribute to a safer, more reliable, and longer driving experience.

What are the most common Holden Trax problems?

Frequently reported Holden Trax issues include transmission system problems (gears slipping, rough shifting, grinding, whining, and squealing noises), electrical issues (infotainment system issues, lights issues, battery drainage, blown fuses), Bluetooth connectivity problems, brake and fuel system problems, and turbocharger issues.

Which Holden Trax model years should I avoid due to reliability issues?

The Holden Trax model years with the highest incidence of problems compared to other models are 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018. Before buying the car, you must carefully inspect these years with a professional mechanic.

Are there any recalls of common issues on the Holden Trax?

General Motors often announces recalls for Holden Trax’s common problems related to engine, electrical system, transmission, and brakes. You can visit the nearest official dealership shop or manufacturer’s website to look for any recalls.

How can I prevent common problems in my Holden Trax?

You can prevent vehicles from frequent problems by focusing on scheduled maintenance services, adopting smooth driving habits, checking fluid levels regularly, using quality parts, carefully monitoring the car’s health, and repairing critical issues promptly.