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C0242 on CHEVROLET TRAVERSE

Traction-control/engine-control signal fault causing reduced power

NHTSA Reports
2
Severity
High
Most Affected
2011, 2014
Crashes / Fires
0 / 0
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database · SAE J2012
Last reviewed: Last updated:

Methodology: We combine code standards with complaint and reliability patterns, then review for clear, vehicle-first diagnosis steps.

Sources: SAE/OBD-II definitions, manufacturer service information, and public reliability reports (including NHTSA where applicable).

Limits: Guidance is informational and may not match every model-year or revision. Confirm with the official manual and diagnostics before replacing parts. For safety-critical or electrical work, use a qualified technician.

What C0242 Means on Your CHEVROLET TRAVERSE

C0242 on Chevrolet Traverse points to traction-control/engine-control signal fault causing reduced power. FixIt matched 2 NHTSA owner reports for this exact code/vehicle pair, so use this page to prioritize the most likely symptoms, components, and next checks before replacing parts.

2 Chevrolet Traverse owners have reported this code/reference in NHTSA complaints across 2011-2014. Chevrolet reports often describe reduced engine power, ESC/traction warnings, and throttle/engine-control behavior.

Real CHEVROLET TRAVERSE Owner Reports

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

"C0242,P1682. WHILE DRIVING THE STABILITY CONTROL TURNS OFF REDUCED ENGINE POWER AND THE VEHICLE TURNS OFF LEAVING YOU NO WAY TO STREAM THE VEHICLE . THIS HAPPENS AT ALL SPEEDS AND IN PARK. THIS HAPPENS EVERYONE THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN."

— 2014 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE owner · POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) · Filed 03/01/2019

"CODES ARE AS FOLLOWED: P0008, P0496, P0221 , P0017, C0242, C00561"

— 2011 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE owner · SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM · Filed 10/01/2017

All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year

1
'11
1
'14

Common Causes on CHEVROLET TRAVERSE

Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM 50%
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) 50%

What To Do Next

  1. 1
    Check for recalls on YOUR VIN

    Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.

  2. 2
    Get a proper diagnosis

    A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.

  3. 3
    Compare repair quotes

    Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does C0242 mean on a Chevrolet Traverse? ▾
It points to traction-control/engine-control signal fault causing reduced power. FixIt found 2 NHTSA reports for this exact code/vehicle pair, so confirm with an enhanced scan and the OEM service procedure.
What are common symptoms of C0242 on Chevrolet Traverse? ▾
Reduced Engine Power message; Service ESC or Service Traction warnings; Loss of acceleration, stalling, or limp mode.
What should I do first for C0242? ▾
Scan both powertrain and ABS/ESC modules and record companion codes. Then inspect wiring/connectors, verify voltage/ground, and check VIN-specific recalls or campaigns where applicable.

C0242 on Other Vehicles

CHEVROLET IMPALA
2 reports
CHEVROLET MALIBU
6 reports
SUBARU OUTBACK
1 reports
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