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2019 Traverse 3.6L Engine Hesitation & Hard Starts

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Nicole W. · rep 0 · May 22, 2:32 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2019 Chevrolet Traverse Premier 3.6L

Hi everyone,

I'm having some intermittent issues with my 2019 Chevrolet Traverse Premier, 3.6L V6, with about 60,000 miles. Lately, the engine has been hesitating quite a bit during acceleration, especially from a stop. It feels like it's struggling to get power.

Also, sometimes it takes a few extra cranks to start, and occasionally I'll catch a faint smell of fuel outside the car after it's been running. The check engine light came on briefly a couple of times but then went off, so I didn't get a chance to scan it. It's making me nervous about longer trips.

Any thoughts on what could be causing this combination of hesitation, hard starts, and fuel smell? Thanks in advance!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 2:32 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

The symptoms you're describing—engine hesitation, hard starts, and a faint fuel smell—on your 2019 Chevrolet Traverse 3.6L suggest a potential issue within the fuel delivery or evaporative emissions (EVAP) system. The intermittent check engine light also points to a system that's on the edge of failing.

Common Causes:

  1. Fuel Pump/Fuel Pressure: A failing fuel pump or a clogged fuel filter can lead to insufficient fuel pressure, causing hard starts and hesitation. The fuel smell could be related to pressure issues or a leak.
  2. Fuel Injectors: Leaky or clogged fuel injectors can cause hard starts (due to pressure bleed-off or poor spray pattern) and hesitation. A leaky injector could also contribute to the fuel smell.
  3. EVAP System Issues: The EVAP system captures fuel vapors. A fault in this system (e.g., a cracked hose, faulty purge valve, or vent valve) can cause a fuel smell and sometimes affect engine performance, leading to hesitation or hard starts. Common codes include P0440 (Evaporative Emission System Malfunction) or P0455 (EVAP System Leak Detected).
  4. Spark Plugs/Ignition Coils: Worn spark plugs or failing ignition coils can cause misfires and hesitation, though this usually doesn't explain a fuel smell or hard starts as directly.
  5. High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP): The 3.6L engine uses a direct injection system with a high-pressure fuel pump. Issues with the HPFP can lead to insufficient fuel pressure, causing all your described symptoms.

Diagnostics & When to See a Shop:

  • Check for Stored Codes: Even if the check engine light is off, there might be 'pending' or 'history' codes stored in the ECM. Get the vehicle scanned for any codes, especially EVAP-related ones.
  • Fuel System Inspection: A mechanic should perform a fuel pressure test (both low and high pressure) and inspect the fuel lines, injectors, and fuel tank for any leaks or damage.
  • EVAP System Test: A smoke test of the EVAP system can quickly identify any leaks in hoses or components that could be causing the fuel smell and potentially affecting performance.
  • Professional Diagnosis: Given the safety concern of a fuel smell and the potential for multiple interconnected issues, it's highly recommended to have a qualified technician diagnose your Traverse promptly. They can accurately pinpoint the source of the problem and prevent further damage or safety risks.
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