The 1st generation Buick Encore and Chevrolet Trax would present a serious problem
Forums and Facebook pages specializing in automobiles are full of relevant information. Powered by owners, enthusiasts and experts in automobile mechanics, they sometimes allow you to discover problems linked to a specific vehicle model. The RPM team was able to see on the “Mechanical Horror” Facebook page that a major problem would affect the Chevrolet Trax And Buick Encore from 1D generation. Indeed, after several researches, the rear differential installed on these products could, in certain cases, break prematurely, which results in rather hefty repair costs.
A widespread problem
Analysis of the situation revealed that many Buick Encores and Chevrolet Traxes built between 2013 and 2020 and equipped with GM’s 4-wheel drive system would present a problem with the rear differential. Testimonies collected from owners confirm that they first heard a dull knocking noise. After checking with a mechanical specialist, motorists would, in the majority of cases, have had to change the part which would have literally broken.
According to comments collected on social media, the repair would cost up to $3,000. There is no correlation between the number of years the vehicle has been in circulation and its mileage. Some owners experience the problem before reaching 100,000 kilometers, others exceed 180,000. Regardless of the year or the mileage, the fact remains that the rear differential is essential; it is he who distributes the torque from the engine to the rear wheels in order to operate the entire system.
Bad design pointed out
The Trax Forum is full of information regarding potential causes of the problem. Following the evaluation of around fifty posts written by mechanics, the problems with the rear differential could be attributed to poor design. The molded housing that encloses the differential would be oriented in a way that would let in too much dirt and calcium from the road. Since salt and aluminum do not usually mix well, corrosion sets in, causing the part to break.
Still according to the notes analyzed, the coin would only be about 3/16 of an inch thick and would be too fragile to resist in the long term. To mitigate the effects, some experts suggest cleaning it from time to time and coating the exterior of the case with a rust-inhibiting product.
At this time, no recall appears to be offered by GM. A service bulletin, issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the United States, indicates that the company is aware of the situation, and that the brand’s specialists have an established procedure for replacing the differential. On the other hand, no compensation is offered by the manufacturer, which leaves motorists saddled with a hefty repair bill.
