Chevy Equinox Common Problems & Their Fixes

Chevy Equinox models include first-generation vehicles that debuted for the 2005 model year until 2009. When the second-generation Equinox was released in 2010 up until 2017, it brought with it some key refinements to the original.

The current third-generation Equinox debuted for the 2018 model year and has proven to be exceptionally safe and with additional comfort features and other refinements.

But, like other cars, the Chevy Equinox model has its fair share of problems for the different model years and trims. Some models years are more problematic than others, with some having a number of recalls while others having none.

2014 Chevy Equinox Problems

2014 Chevy Equinox has four trims: LS, 1LT, 2LT, and LTZ. The base LS trim features a six-speaker radio with Bluetooth, USB ports, and an auxiliary input jack.

The 1LT trim has additional features like Chevrolet’s MyLink voice-activated infotainment system with a 7-inch touch screen, Bluetooth audio streaming, and Siri Eyes Free, power-adjustable and heated side mirrors, and a rearview camera.

The Chevrolet 2LT trim includes an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated front seat, automatic climate control, and remote start.

The LTZ trim adds more safety and comfort features, including lane departure warning, rear park assist, forward collision alert, driver’s seat memory settings, a power liftgate, and perforated leather upholstery.

Problems

1. Engine problems

LT:

• Problem with the engine computer
• Engine control module failure
• Bad cam solenoid/ vvt solenoid for intake
• Oil leaks
• Timing belt or chain failure

LS:

• Worn out chain

LTZ:

• Car dies for no apparent reason
• Leaking head gasket

2. Paint/Trim

LT:

• Rusting
• Paint scratches easily

3. Body Integrity

LS:

• Air and water leaks on floor

LT:

• Rattling and squeaking sound coming from dash
• Engine rattling when starting the car
• Air leaks around doors and windows

LTZ:

• Faulty hatch lock

4. In-car electronics

LT:

• Screen going blank when put in reverse
• Screen gets stuck on the backup camera when shifting from reverse to drive
• Dash lights go dark intermittently and randomly
• Phone pairing is problematic and inconsistent
• Problems with voice commands
• Problems with Radio

LTZ:

• Problematic back-up cameras and weather reports
• Display screen freezes up
• Display for the backup camera is too dark
• In-dash navigation system (GPS) goes completely blank
• Phone pairing issues
• Radio and heating control stops working

LS:

• Backup camera fails to activate or turn off

5. Climate system

LT:

• A/C compressor stops working or works intermittently
• Heater core failed
• Leaking antifreeze
• Car overheats
• Heating system does not maintain the set temperature
• Problematic automatic climate control

LTZ

• Leaking refrigerant

6. Electric system issues

LT:

• Rear convenience outlet (12V power plug) doesn’t work
• Burned out headlights
• Electronic stability control problems
• Warning lights light up randomly. Stay on until car is shut off and restarted.

LTZ:

• Faulty body control module
• Wiper motor or washer failure

LS:

• Tire pressure monitor failure
• Problems with keyless entry

7. Brakes problems

LT:

• Faulty antilock system (ABS)
• Worn down rotors
• Rusted rotors
• Squeaking rotors
• Stability service track light comes on

LTZ:

• Premature brake wear

LS:

• Warped and pulsated rotors

8. Transmission problems

LT:

• Faulty hydraulics (clutch master or slave cylinder)
• Slipping transmission. High revs but little acceleration.
• Transmission seal leak

LS:

• Leaking transmission
• Issues with transmission sensor or solenoid. Difficulty gaining highway speeds and rough shifting.

9. Suspension problems

LT:

• Problem with alignment

LTZ:

• Power steering leaks. High pressure hose starts to leak.

LS:

• Power steering pumps and hoses issues. Car makes a loud squeaking noise when started.
• Steering wheel vibration. Severe vibration when braking.

10. Exhaust system problems

LT:

• Muffler/ resonator rotting out
• Crankcase(PCV) problems

LS:

• Leaking exhaust/ exhaust manifold

11. Fuel system problems

LT:

• Problem with emission control devices (includes EGR). Check engine light keeps coming on.
• Faulty fuel pump. Auxiliary pump makes a thumping noise.

LS:

• Fuel injection system issue. Carbon build-up due to using ECO feature with ethanol supplemented fuel.

12. Drive system problems

LT:

• Leaking transfer case seal

LS:

• Leaking axle seals

2015 Chevy Equinox Problems

2015 Chevy Equinox has four trims: L, LT (1LT and 2LT), LS, and LTZ. The base L trim gives you a wide range of features, such as keyless entry for convenience and cruise control for those long rides. Electronic features include a six-speaker sound system with a CS player, steering wheel mounted audio controls, and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. It also feature Bluetooth phone connectivity, along with the OnStar telematics system, which comes with an in-car 4G LTE with a Wi-Fi hotspot for your mobile devices.

The LS trim levels has many features similar to the base L trim, but it also adds some additional features such as SiriusXM satellite radio, bringing you instant access to a whole range of media that is unavailable elsewhere.

LT trim has two sub-levels: 1LT and 2LT. 1LT trim level features roof rack side rails for extra luggage, and luxury features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel and rear privacy glass. It also features a rearview camera, as well as an audio system with the Chevy MyLink interface, which comes with a 7-inch touchscreen. Additional electronic features include Bluetooth audio connectivity and smartphone integration for internet streaming radio apps. This system is also voice-controlled.

The 2lt trim level adds comfort features like an automatic climate control system, heated front seats, and 8-way power driver’s seat. You will also get remote start for more convenience, and an upgraded Pioneer 8-speaker sound system as well.

The LTZ trim level adds more luxury features like 18-inch chrome-plated alloy wheels and premium leather upholstery. It also has convenience features like a power liftgate and driver memory settings, along with safety features like rear parking sensors, forward collision alert, and a lane departure warning system.

The 2015 Chevy Equinox has a number of complaints. The following are some of the common problems with this model and the different trim models;

1. Engine problems

LT:

• Leaking head gasket and rear main seal
• Worn/ damaged/lose/noisy timing belt or chain

2. Transmission problems

LT:

• Rough shifting

LTZ:

• Gear selector or linkage failure
• Bad/faulty transmission sensor or solenoid
• Vehicle shudders on acceleration when shifting gear
• Burned clutches

3. In-car electronics problems

LT:

• Display screen difficult to see
• Display screen freezes up/goes blank
• External music device interface issues
• Phone pairing issues

LS:

• Static noise comes out through speakers when an MP3 is connected through aux input

LTZ:

• In-dash navigation system (GPS) issues
• Display screen goes blank

4. Body integrity problems

LT:

• Squeaks and rattles in dashboard
• Leaking roof

LTZ:

• Water leaks

LS:

• Squeaks, rattles, whining noises

5. Climate system problems

LT:

• Foul/moldy smell in the car after extreme weather changes
• Leaking heater core
• Bad/faulty evaporator

LS:

• Air conditioner failure

6. Paint/Trim problems

LT:

• Loose interior trim or moldings
• Rusting

LTZ:

• Paint cracking and peeling

7. Electric system problems

LT:

• Bad cruise control switch
• Dimmed gauges

LTZ:

• Clock reads off

8. Fuel system problems

LT:

• Bad/faulty EGR
• Fuel pump failure
• Bad/faulty sensors

LTZ:

• Bad or faulty sensors
• Bad/faulty fuel pump

9. Suspension problems

LT:

• Damaged/worn ball joint
• Bad/ noisy bushing
• Power steering leaks

LTZ:

• Worn/damaged springs or torsion bars
• Worn or damaged tie rods

10. Brakes problems

LT:

• Worn brakes
• Pulsating or vibration on braking

LTZ:

• Rotor failure

11. Body problems

LT:

• Door doesn’t close tightly
• Tailgate won’t open

12. Drive system problems

LT:

• Loud noise from AWD case
• Electrical failure

13. Exhaust problems

LT:

• Exhaust leaks

2016 Chevy Equinox Problems

1. In-car electronics problems

LT:

• Screen hard to see when lights are on auto
• Display/touch screen freezes up

LS:

• When hanging up a call screen freezes and you can no longer use the Bluetooth to make a call or change the radio
• Faulty in-dash navigation system (GPS)

LTZ:

• Display/screen freezes up and requires a restart
• Radio infotainment center, backup camera failed/not working
• In-dash navigation doesn’t work smoothly or efficiently
• Radio doesn’t work or does not work properly

2. Paint/Trim problems

LT:

• Loose interior trim or moldings

LS:

• Rusting
• Chipping paint

LTZ:

• Chipping and cracking paint
• Rusting

3. Electric system problems

L:

• Warning lights

LTZ:

• Bad wiper motor or washer
• Inadequate miniscule LED backup lights
• Back up warning light comes on and wouldn’t go off

4. Body integrity problems

LT:

• Noise coming from the passenger area

LTZ:

• Squeaks or rattles

LS:

• Road noise and engine lifter noise

5. Climate system problems

LT:

• A/C compressor failure

LS:

• Doesn’t cool enough

6. Drive system problems

LT:

• Front axle leaks
• Bad axle seal
• Faulty accelerator

LTZ:

• Engine light comes on

7. Suspension problems

LT:

• Ball joint failure
• Bad shocks or struts

LS:

• CV boot leaking fluid

8. Transmission problems

LT:

• Slipping transmission

LTZ:

• Transmission leaks

9. Power equipment problems

LT:

• Battery failure

2017 Chevy Equinox Problems

1. In-car electronics

LT:

• Backup camera does not work
• Display screen goes blank
• Info system periodically goes blank/ does not work
• Command recognition is inconsistent

LTZ:

• Navigation system does not respond to the regular commands
• Voice recognition is unreliable

2. Body integrity problems

LT:

• Wiper on the rear window squeaks when it is on
• Noise under the car when hitting bumps or holes in the road
• Wind noise as you are driving

LS:

• Rattles deep in the dashboard

LTZ:

• Rattle in rear hatch

3. Electric system problems

LT:

• Computer module malfunction
• Malfunctioning gauges

LTZ:

• Memory settings for driver’s seat not working properly

LS:

• Malfunctioning tire pressure monitor

How to Fix Chevy Equinox Problems

1. Engine

The Chevrolet Equinox engine choices include a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder and a V6, and both have had several complaints. Engine problems can be due to several issues. In a worst case scenario, the engine may be blown.

Excessive oil consumption is one of the most frequent complaints on the Chevy Equinox. Low engine oil from excessive oil consumption could lead to a blown engine, and therefore it is not a problem to ignore. Luckily, the oil consumption issues often come up while the car still has powertrain warranty in effect. Outside of warranty coverage, it can cost $3000 or more for engine replacement alone, not considering any other costs that can come up.

You will be able to tell it is a starter issue when you turn the key and nothing happens. Replacing the starter is a simple procedure, yet it comes with a cost. Depending on the engine and trim level, it can cost between $400 and $900 for a starter replacement. The cost includes parts and labor charges.

If the Check Engine light comes on, or there is some noise from the engine, check the oil level first. It is also a good idea to check the oil level regularly and do the oil changes more often to keep the engine in good shape.

2. Car stalls

To fix a vehicle that stalls, first check if the scheduled maintenance items are up-to-date and that you followed the recommended services listed in the vehicle owners manual. Have the stored fault codes or check engine light scanned at an auto parts store.

There are several possible causes of engine hesitation or stumble:

• Dirty fuel injectors. If so, cleaning the injectors often fixes this.
• The air filter could be dirty and may need to be changed.
• Dirty/clogged fuel filter. If so, change the filter.
• Bad MAP( manifold absolute pressure) sensor
• Bad or dirty mass airflow sensor
• Bad throttle position sensor
• Low fuel pressure (leaky fuel pressure regulator or weak fuel pump)
• Vacuum leaks (intake manifold, vacuum hoses, throttle body, EGR valve)
• Bad gasoline (fuel contaminated with water or too much alcohol)

Sometimes, what feels like a hesitation is actually ignition misfire rather than lean misfire. Ignition misfire may be caused by the following:

• Dirty or worn out plugs
• Bad plug wires
• Wet plug wires
• Weak ignition coil

3. A/C Compressor

Failed A/C compressor may cause the air conditioner not to work. Replacing the A/C compressor may cost from $500 to $800.

4. Overheating

Loss of coolant due to a coolant leak is the common cause of engine overheating. Possible leak points include hoses, the radiator, heater core, water pump, thermostat housing, freeze plugs, head gasket, automatic transmission oil cooler, cylinder heads, and block.

Make a visual inspection of the entire cooling system, and then pressure test the cooling system and radiator cap. A pressure test will reveal internal leaks such as seepage past the head gasket as well as cracks in the head or block. A good system should hold 12-15 psi for 15 minutes or more with no loss in pressure. If it leaks pressure, there is an internal coolant leak. Most likely it is a bad head gasket, but could also be a cracked cylinder or engine block.

It is also important to pressure test the radiator cap as well, because of a weak cap or one with a pressure rating that is too low.

• Perform a cooling system/radiator pressure test when the engine is cold as a first step to locate the leak. Observe the leaks and perform the repair. Do not over pressurize beyond the pressure allowed by the radiator cap, then test the radiator cap as well.
• Air pockets trapped in the cooling system can cause the engine to overheat. For many cooling systems, the method of removing air pockets is to start the engine and allow it to run with the radiator cap off or loose until all the air escapes from the neck of the radiator. Some systems have air bleed valves built into the cooling system to aid in the removal of air pockets.

5. Loud squealing coming from the alternator area

If there is squealing noise from the alternator area, there are several possibilities, including:

• Worn drive belt
• Worn/faulty drive-belt tensioner
• Belt-driven pulleys are misaligned

Be sure that if the belt, or tensioner pulley is replaced that all the components are replaced at the same time.

6. My link infotainment dead/ backup camera not working/ screen is black

This problem could either be a software “hiccup”, or a failure of one of the module to power on in the time that another module is expecting communication with it.

To fix this, try “rebooting” the car. Power off, exit the car, close the door and wait at least two minutes before entering and powering it up. Some of the center stack electronics seem to need about two minutes or thereabout to completely shut down and be reset.

Be sure that you power it up once (foot on the brake, stab button, foot off the brake). Hitting the button more than once in quick succession or fumbling the brake/button/off brake sequence and repeating it too quickly can cause the problem, where the center stack will power on/off rapidly and fail to communicate with all of its inputs.

There is also a documented center stack software “glitch” where the center screen will not display. All of the info it should show will be frozen, but will actually be on. There may be a software update that addresses that problem.

7. Cruise control and overdrive  not working

Start by checking the related fuse for the overdrive control.

Mounted on the brake pedal bracket, next to the brake light switch, there is a switch called the TCC Brake/ Cruise Switch. Power to the switch is from the cruise control fuse. The switch is connected to the PCM which monitors and controls the cruise control and the transmission.

The switch affects the operation of the cruise control. It is closed when the brakes are off and open when the brakes are applied. If this switch gets stuck, the cruise will not operate.

How to check automatic transmission fluid level

Do not open the hood to try to locate the transmission fluid level dipstick. There is no dipstick, just a plug found in the bottom of the transmission oil pan.

• Idle the vehicle until the transmission oil temperature reaches 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Open the transmission oil pan plug while the vehicle idles.
• If oil runs out or spills off the plug, it is considered to be full.
• If you think it is not full, add additional fluid by pumping more through the drain plug, until the vehicle spills it back out.
• Torque the drain plug to specs.

How to replace a transmission mount

• Secure your vehicle on a solid level surface so that it doesn’t roll or lean when raised.
• Using a floor jack, raise the front of the vehicle.
• Secure the vehicle with jack stands on both sides for safety before starting any work. Do not rely on the floor jack to hold the vehicle up while working.
• Locate the transmission mount and inspect it for damage and excessive wear.
• Support the transmission using the floor jack and a block of wood. Do not raise the transmission.
• Remove the nuts that hold the cross member to the transmission mount.
• Remove the bolts holding the cross member to the frame and remove the cross member from the vehicle.
• Disconnect the transmission mount from the transmission
• Install the new transmission mount. Be sure to torque the mounting fasteners per specification.
• Attach the cross member to the transmission mount and then to the frame, while ensuring you torque the mounting bolts/fasteners per specification.
• Raise the vehicle to remove the jack stand/support. Remove the floor jack.
• Lower the vehicle to the ground.
• Road test to verify that the repair was successful and that there are no noises or excessive vibrations from the transmission mount.

What is the Least Troublesome Year and Trim for Chevy Equinox?

On the second generation Chevy Equinox, the least troublesome years are 2013-2017 with 3.6L V6 engine. Unlike the 2.4L l4 engine, the V6 engines did not have excessive oil consumption issues, which account for most complaints made on Chevy Equinox. The 3.0L V6 (2010-2012) suffered from failing timing chains, but the 3.6L V6 (2013-2017) did not.

The third generation proved to be exceptionally safe. Although Chevy Equinox received IIHS Top Safety Picks for the 2020-2021 model years, the 2018-2019 models were also safe. In fact, their headlights and LATCH system was the only thing that prevented them from earning a Top Safety Pick.

What is the Worst Troublesome Year and Trim for Chevy Equinox?

On the second generation Chevy Equinox, the years to avoid are 2010-2012 and 2013-2017 with 2.4L l4 engine. The 2.4L l4 engine accounted for almost all complaints on the NHTSA. The problem was that it consumed a lot of oil, causing a lack of lubrication. This of course could lead to a blown engine, which is very costly to repair.

Maintenance Tips & Tricks for Your Chevy Equinox

While Chevy Equinox has several known problems. However, there are factors such as the model year or trim level that can affect this. You could also help avoid quite a number of issues through proper maintenance of your vehicle. Below are some maintenance tips and tricks to consider:

1. Use better quality engine oil and do more frequent oil changes. This may help avoid some of the engine problems.
2. When buying a used Chevy Equinox, we suggest having the car inspected by a qualified mechanic. Watch out for oil leaks from the engine or transmission. A low oil level could be an indicator that the engine consumes oil. Avoid the car if the engine sounds noisy, even a short rattle when started cold.

Check this too: Common 2014 Chevy Cruze Problems & Their Fixes

Recalls You Should Be Aware Of

There has been one recalls on 2016 Chevy Equinox on equipment, tires. The certification labels may have incorrect tire/rim size and cold tire pressure information. As such the vehicle fails to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, “Tire Selection and Rims.” The recall began on July 14, 2016.

2015 Chevy Equinox has had one recall issued for airbags. GM stated that the affected vehicles have front seat-mounted side-impact airbags whose inflator may rupture upon its deployment. The recall began on October 19, 2015.

If buying a Chevy Equinox and there is a recall issued by GM for the vehicle, it is important to check if the car was taken for the fix. Some of the issues pose a safety risk if not addressed.