Hamed Paydarfar
Apr 21, 2022
The 2015 Chevrolet Equinox is one of the few compact SUVs on the market that offers a V6 engine with 301 horsepower, more powerful than the competition. However, the base four-cylinder engine has meager specs and suffers from excessive oil consumption.
Key Points
- The 2015 Chevrolet Equinox has two recalls, two investigations, and over 450 complaints registered to the NHTSA.
- The two recalls pertain to flawed side-impact airbags and windshield wipers not working properly.
- Many owners have complained about excessive oil consumption ruining the engine in models equipped with the base four-cylinder motor.
- Power steering assist going out intermittently, spongy brake pedal, and expensive transmission overhauls are among other commonly cited issues.
- Several owners have quoted dealing with various electrical problems, including malfunctioning radio and backup camera.
2015 Chevrolet Equinox’s Two Recalls Cover Faulty Side Impact Airbags and Malfunctioning Windshield Wipers
The Chevrolet Equinox raised many concerns in the first four years of its second generation (2010–2018). Although things got relatively better for the 2015 model, there are still an alarming number of owner complaints pertaining to costly problems.
In October 2015, General Motors recalled three Chevrolet vehicles, including the 2015 Equinox, over flawed side-impact airbags.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the inflators could rupture and prevent the airbags from inflating correctly.
Additionally, the rupture could result in small metal pieces striking the SUV’s occupants and causing serious injuries.
Due to a high number of owner complaints, the NHTSA opened two investigations about windshield wipers failing due to the ball joints in the module corroding. Inoperative windshield wipers, especially in heavy rain and snow, can significantly reduce the driver’s visibility.
The two investigations were opened in November 2018 and December 2019, but it wasn’t until very recently, in March 2022, that GM finally recalled 2014 and 2015 Equinoxes to provide a remedy for flawed windshield wipers.
Many 2015 Equinox Owners Have Spent $5,000 on Average Over Excessive Oil Consumption Problem
More than a fifth of the 463 complaints registered to the NHTSA website concern engine problems, and they are predominantly about burning excessive oil.
In most cases, the high oil consumption rate has caused irreversible damage, forcing owners to replace the entire engine.
2015 Equinox owners posting on the Car Complaints website echo this problem. “Immediately had it towed to the mechanic where I was told the engine has zero compression. The end result is that with less than 93,000 miles, my engine is done,” said one owner about the aftermath of the engine shaking and losing power.
The problem predominantly plagues the 2.4L four-cylinder engine.
Based on the Car Complaints data, the issue occurs around the 100,000-mile mark and costs $5,000 on average to fix. Some owners have mentioned repair bills as high as $8,000.
Intermittent Power Steering and Brake Malfunctions Have Put Some Owners in Hazardous Situations
Several owners have filed complaints with the NHTSA regarding the power steering.
According to these reports, the power steering assist goes out while the SUV is in motion without any warning, creating hazardous situations for the driver and other cars on the road.
Furthermore, owners have complained about the brakes feeling spongy or failing to stop the vehicle at various speeds.
The six-speed automatic mounted on the 2015 Equinox is another problematic area. The transmission can’t properly shift into reverse and shifts roughly between the third and fifth gears. Owners have dealt with this problem well below the 60,000-mile mark.
According toRepair Pal, the problem typically comes from a broken 35R wave plate that controls the gears.
“It goes out of gear at stop signs when you try to enter an intersection, on major highways at speed and in any condition,” quoted one 2015 Equinox owner on a Car Problem Zoo forum.
2015 Equinox’s Electrical Issues Drain Battery and Prevent Radio and Backup Camera From Working Properly
Owners have complained about different problems with the 2015 Chevy Equinox’s electrical system. However, the battery dying sooner than it should is the most common issue posted on Car Complaints.
Additionally, the radio and the backup camera not working properly, or in some cases, not working at all, has caused headaches for several owners.
“The radio doesn’t work, Bluetooth doesn’t work, back doors don’t open from the inside even though they are unlocked,” posted one owner in 2015, mentioning they had to take their 2015 Equinox to the dealership several times over electrical problems within the first few months.
Another common problem with the Chevrolet Equinox is the A/C compressor failing before the SUV has 100,000 miles on the odometer. Owners have typically spent $600 to $700 to replace the compressor.
Various Engine and Electrical Problems Make it Difficult to Recommend the 2015 Chevrolet Equinox
The 2015 Chevrolet Equinox offers an optional V6 with 301 horsepower and a lot of interior space for a compact SUV.
However, widespread issues such as excessive oil consumption and various electrical problems overshadow the SUV’s good qualities. Based on real owner reviews on the Vehicle History website, the 2015 Equinox ranks 10th among 24 other compact SUVs.
According to Kelley Blue Book, a used 2015 Chevy Equinox goes for around $11,545 to $17,983.
Within the same price range, the 2015 Honda CR-V and 2015 Subaru Forester come with significantly fewer problems, better standard technology, and are longer-lasting.
Photos: Chevrolet
Frequently Asked Questions
By Stephanie Stephan | Apr 21, 2022
Do Chevy Equinoxes Have a Lot of Problems?
The engine stalls, seizes, and fails between 75,000-83,000 miles in 2010-2013 Chevy Equinoxes. Electrical problems are common in the Chevy Equinox. The defrost, windshield wipers and ignition key have been recalled.
How Many MIles Can a 2015 Chevy Equinox Last?
Driver Advisor suggests the Chevy Equinox can last 200,000-220,000 miles. However, the 2015 Chevy Equinox can suffer from major oil leaks. Owners report rear main seal and engine failure between 92,000-125,000 miles.
Owner Reviews
Derek C. on August 4, 2021
Expensive paper weight
Looks nice I admit however, a 5 year 120k mile warranty chevy doesn't honor. Even with emails from on star stating there's an issue with the engine or transmission, multiple videos of it acting up, and even took it into the dealership with it having the issues, I'm told they can't duplicate it. Since may 2019 it's been to the dealership 6 times. No matter what, when, or where without warning it will say service power steering then service stabilitrak then eco mode on gauges go to 0 driving or not. It reduces power, the transmission slams into gears if they decide to change.
raul on May 31, 2022
I m gonna say i am lucky
After 5 year with my equinox 2015 i have only 1 complain..OIL BURNING. Yes,, you have to check the oil very often. I bouhgt it with 60k milles, now is 105k milles and i havent seen any mecanic so far. I change the oil by my self more often than reccomended. My equinox is 4 cylinder so it is slow. Compared with other suvs i drove is very confortable and smooth..talking about the main concern (the oil burning) this suv has the oil life meter to tell you when is time to change the oil... THIS METER IS USELESS never trust this or you gonna loss you engine
Albert M on December 16, 2021
Do not buy the Chevy equinox bad buy.
Four door SUV, 2.4 liter, personally will never buy another make and model like this ever again. Bad on gas, something is always going wrong with it to where it needs to be put in the shop to fix. Costly repairs will leave broke at the end of the week when you're fixing the same thing over and over and over again.
Brenda S on September 19, 2021
Like the style & shape of vehicle. Liked fords but now prefer Chevy.
The windshield wipers stopped on an extremely busy highway with children and baby in the car in a horrible rainstorm stuck on the left hand side of the highway. We were petrified. The transfer case went, blew apart. The 4 cylinder not strong enough to carry weight and miles per gallon advertised it incorrectly.
Yesuf M. on December 25, 2021
Engine!!!
The Chevy Equinox 2015 was very bad. The timing chain broke at 116 k miles, damaged a few other things, burned oil and I do not recommend it. Now, it is estimated that it will cost me $4k to fix the problem. I took care of oil changes regularly and I drove it rarely. I will just junked it, unfortunately!!!
Candi S on September 22, 2021
Chevrolet equinox car review.
Brakes are going bad, front wheel drive causes me to get stuck in the snow a lot, I had engine problems which were covered by warranty, the stereo does not connect to the phone with cord other than apple cord. When I brake the car shakes. Exterior rusts easily. The get up and acceleration is very slow.
Erika S on April 15, 2022
Chevy equinox ltz- my overall review.
Sometimes the fan blows after shutting the vehicle off. This indicates that it is too hot. Every now and then we have to recharge the AC because it starts blowing hot. We did have to replace the tires shortly after purchasing, without new tires, the car does not do well in the winter.
Shawn C on August 28, 2021
Problems with my equinox.
Overall I have not been satisfied with my purchase. Electrical problems within 30000 miles, fuel tank problems within 20000 miles, heated seat problems within the first year of owning, all problems were not covered under bumper to bumper warranty. Would not purchase another equinox.
Brandon N on February 21, 2022
This truck makes my family feel good it looks really nice.
Love the vehicle, beware of the oil burning problems the equinox has. I learned about this the hard way when mine jumped the timing chain due to low oil a week after I had the oil changed and filled. Besides that flaw it's a nice little SUV fun to drive and looks cool too.
Chris Wright on October 29, 2021
High oil consumption leads to engine failure
This car's engine has a history of high oil consumption. It burns 1-2 quarts every 1000 miles, and the low oil pressure light doesn't work. I just had an oil change 6 weeks ago, and now my engine has failed. I was quoted 5800.00 for a used engine with 78k miles on it.
Nicole R on March 11, 2022
The car is great on gas mileage.
The car is reliable and comfortable for the family of four. However, the car has no air conditioner vents for the back seats and my children tend to get very hot in the summer months. I wish the truck space was a little bigger to fit more storage.
Samantha S on October 31, 2021
Watch out for the acceleration issues.
Bieber had at least 3 service calls on my car not accelerating or backfiring. The biggest pro is the all wheel drive handling in snow. Nicely done. It is a lighter weight vehicle so with gusty winds it may travel across lanes a little.
Ashley S on April 2, 2022
Not enough bang for your buck.
Oil needs changed more often. Several engine issues and had the engine replaced recently. Several lights are coming on. Vehicle is comfortable to drive and has several nice features. Interior is cheaply made. Rusts very easily.
Denise S on June 15, 2021
Do not buy a Chevy SUV or Car.
I have had it for about 2 yrs and the ac went out completely. The sensor for the gas tank has gone out as well. So now my check engine light never goes off so I never know if something else is wrong with my car.
Alisha on January 8, 2022
No!
The engine blew, the battery dies every year, problems with the Bluetooth and wiring, nothing but problems and repairs since I got this car!!! Do yourself a favor and stay far away. This car ruined my life!!
Lisha W on January 26, 2022
No a/c vent in backseat-2015 equinox.
I hate that the equinox does not have a/c vents in the back seat. Very hot in the back there unless you turn the air on so high it sounds like a wind turbine in the front.
SueAnn M on December 28, 2021
Amazing for winter, minimal issues.
There was one issue, I believe it was with a plug of some sort. My car would die every time you would hit the accelerator. But it was a quick and inexpensive fix.
Ruth H on March 18, 2022
Very loud road noise due to no carpet in car.
Do not like all the road noise and all the shifting of the transmission due to only being a 4 cylinder. I like the room in the car, the accessories, and economy.
Amanda T on October 10, 2021
Great family and travel SUV!
My check engine light stays on, only because the sensor in the fuel cap. Other than that, I've had no issues with this car.
Jodi B on February 18, 2022
Timing chain
Timing chain broke at 70,000 miles. Need new engine. First and last Chevy I'll own..ugh
Sharon on January 5, 2022
Timing chain went out
Timing chain went out at 84,000 miles
Hamed Paydarfar
From collecting miniature replicas to drawing his favorite cars, Hamed's obsession with anything with four wheels kicked off early in his life. Later on, he fused his passion for the automotive industry with his love for languages and literature and began writing blog posts, articles, and features about cars in 2019. When he's not writing, Hamed spends his time with his guitars and paintbrushes.
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2015 Chevrolet Equinox Problems Range from Excessive Oil Consumption to Electrical Problems and Flawed Airbags
FAQs
Is there a recall on Chevy Equinox for oil consumption? ›
Although GM has not issued any official recall for excessive oil consumption issues in either vehicle, the automaker has issued extended coverage to owners and lessees of certain Equinox and Terrain vehicles. The special coverage offers coverage for engine problems resulting from excessive piston ring wear.
What years did the Chevy Equinox have oil consumption problems? ›2011-2013 Equinoxes Reportedly have Issues with Excessive Oil Consumption and Engine Power Loss. The 2011 Chevrolet Equinox currently holds 702 complaints total with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
What is the most common cause of excessive oil consumption? ›DAMAGED PISTON RINGS
Piston rings seal the gap between the piston and the cylinder wall. When they are damaged or worn out, they cause higher oil consumption. The engine oil slowly passes through them and, consequently, enters the internal combustion chamber.
The Details. Vehicles recalled: 2014-2015 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain SUVs. The problem: The ball joints in the windshield wiper module may corrode, causing one or both windshield wipers to fail. The fix: Dealers will inspect the wiper module, and repair or replace it as necessary, free of charge.
Is there a class action lawsuit against GM for oil consumption? ›A proposed class action lawsuit filed late last week claims certain Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles are plagued by a defect that causes the SUVs to burn or consume excessive amounts of oil, leading to a risk of catastrophic engine damage and serious safety concerns.
Did Chevy fix the oil consumption problem? ›According to allegations in the class action lawsuits, starting with some 2014 model vehicles, GM began implementing a Generation V Vortec 5300 engine that was redesigned to fix the excessive oil consumption of the Generation IV engines but did not resolve this issue.
What is the average lifespan of a Chevy Equinox? ›Well taken care of Chevy Equinoxes can be expected to last 200,000 miles. For many drivers, that's over 20 years of use! Even if it's not in perfect condition, the Equinox is expected to reach over 150,000 miles—about 10 years of driving. That's why Equinoxes offer an amazing value!
What is the most common problem with Equinox? ›Brake, fuel system, and engine problems are among the top complaint issues received by the NHTSA from vehicle owners. First introduced in 2005, the Chevrolet Equinox is Chevrolet's answer in the compact crossover SUV class. It's been consistently popular despite safety concerns and resultant complaints.
Does Chevy Equinox have electrical problems? ›The automaker tells customers to “leave it all behind,” but many owners think the Equinox itself is what should be left. This newer Chevy SUV comes equipped with a defective electrical system and malfunctioning powertrain. 5| Equinox Recalls: 5.1| Your Lemon Law Legal Rights.
What years of Equinox to avoid? ›With safety being one of the most significant factors in a new car purchase, the 2005-2007 Equinox model years are the ones to avoid if you're searching for a family car. We looked into price, reliability, features, and more to create this list of the best used SUVs under $10k on the market today.
What year Equinox is on recall? ›
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Chevrolet Equinox and 2022 GMC Terrain vehicles. The driver's seat may have a stripped or loose bolt at the seat frame height-adjust pivot. A seat with a missing or loose bolt may not properly restrain the occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
What is considered high oil consumption? ›Standard motor vehicles that are consuming a quart of oil in less than 1,000 miles should be examined for the cause. Extremely high oil consumption, like one quart in 500 miles, can have a negative damaging effect on catalytic converters.
How do you test for excessive oil consumption? ›Measuring vehicle oil consumption Check the oil level using the proper method and top up to the maximum mark. Drive the vehicle for 1000 km keeping a record of the fuel consumption. Check the oil level again after 1000 km and top up to the maximum mark. The quantity added will be the oil consumption at 1000 km.
Can you fix oil consumption? ›There are several ways to potentially reduce your engine oil consumption. If the cause of the high engine oil consumption is a leak around the piston rings, you may be able to have your piston rings replaced in order to prevent future leaks. Replacing the valve seals may also help to fix oil leaks.
What is the engine warranty on a 2015 Chevy Equinox? ›The 2015 Chevrolet Equinox comes with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
What is the warranty on a 2015 Chevy Equinox? › What should I pay for a 2015 Chevy Equinox? ›2015 Chevrolet Equinox Value - $5,688-$16,173 | Edmunds.
Is there an emissions recall on Chevy Equinox? ›General Motors has issued a voluntary product emissions recall for certain examples of the 2022 Chevy Equinox crossover due to an issue related to the compact crossover's catalytic converter. The problem: affected vehicles were fitted with the incorrect catalytic converter at the factory.
Will GM buy back my car? ›GM buys the vehicle back from the original owner due to either a real or perceived issue. Usually this occurs due to a recognized issue that was not repaired in a timely manner, or the problem was misdiagnosed or not detected by the repairing dealer. These issues can range from functional to cosmetic.
What is GM doing about the lifter problems? ›GM's Response
“if a GM customer has experienced prior valve lifter failures, dealers can replace one bank of lifters, or the engine, and offer the customer a 60-month, 100,000-mile Powertrain Component Coverage Letter, replace the entire engine, or reach out to the District Manager of Aftersales for further guidance.”
How much does it cost to fix oil consumption? ›
On average, repair costs for a vehicle burning oil will be about $600. This average is high because of how expensive some oil repairs are. A blown head gasket is going to top off at the high end of that range where as a broken filler cap will cost you only $100.
Is there a class action lawsuit against Chevrolet? ›A second lawsuit was filed in April 2022, covering vehicles manufactured between 2019 and 2022. This indicates that the “Chevy Shake” has not been entirely eradicated from the cars since the problem was noticed in 2014. The vehicles covered by the new lawsuit include the following: 2019 Chevrolet Corvette.
Does engine restore help with oil consumption? ›The action of RESTORE reduces friction and rebuilds metal surfaces, which in turn restores lost power and reduces oil & fuel consumption. RESTORE works effectively wherever friction and wear cuts scratches in metal surfaces, such as cylinder walls, bushings, bearings, valve guides and hydraulic tappets.
When should I replace my timing belt on my Chevy Equinox? ›About Timing Belt Replacement
They can go as long as 100,000 miles although it's always a good idea to change it before then. Belt failure can cause extensive damage to the valves, pistons and other internal parts of the engine.
Is the 2023 Chevrolet Equinox a Good SUV? The 2023 Equinox is a solid compact SUV that can comfortably seat five people inside its feature-filled cabin. It has a stable ride and a capable chassis, but this Chevy does not stand out in any area. Many rivals offer roomier cargo areas, nicer interiors and stronger engines.
Does the Equinox have timing chain issues? ›Timing chains were displaying signs of early wear and stretching, causing clacking and engine knocking noises. If the chains break, the engine is toast. Timing chain replacement became a frequent warranty procedure for the Equinox too.
Does the Chevy Equinox have a secret compartment? ›In case you need a smidge more room for smaller items, the new Chevy Equinox also offers secret storage in the rear cargo floor.
Why is my Chevy Equinox dying? ›There are a few reasons why your Equinox model may stall. The top three reasons this may happen in an Equinox include issues with the fuel system, air intake system, and the ignition system - with the most common being fuel system issues.
Which Equinox engine is best? ›If you're looking to get the most efficient drive out of your new Equinox, then the 1.6L Turbo-Diesel engine is your best option.
What are signs of electrical problems in car? ›- Your vehicle won't start - you turn your key and hear clicking, grinding, or no sound at all.
- Interior or dashboard lights do not illuminate properly.
- Your vehicle runs well, but the headlights dim while you're traveling at low speeds, or idling at a stop.
What does it mean when your car has an electrical problem? ›
If your car's electrical system is malfunctioning, you may notice that various lights start to dim. Dimming lights indicate charging malfunctions and low system voltage. The culprit could be a dying battery, loose wires, or a malfunctioning alternator belt.
How do you diagnose electrical problems in a car? ›- Engine Doesn't Start Correctly. The car's engine requires electrical power to start. ...
- Battery Problems. A discharged or dead battery is an obvious electrical problem. ...
- Headlights and Other Lights Malfunctioning. ...
- Blown Fuses. ...
- Burning Plastic Smell. ...
- Safety First.
Yes, the 2015 Equinox is a good used compact SUV . There's plenty of passenger and cargo space, and this Chevy delivers a cushioned ride. It also has a good safety score and an excellent reliability rating. That said, the Equinox has a weak four-cylinder base engine.
What is unusual about equinox? ›The equinoxes are the only time when both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres experience roughly equal amounts of daytime and nighttime. On Earth, there are two equinoxes every year: one around March 21 and another around September 22.
What is the difference between equinox LS and LT? ›The Equinox LS and the Equinox LT essentially have identical standard features. However, when you opt for the LS, you'll have access to the optional LS Convenience Package. The Equinox LT adds a standard power-adjustable driver's seat and satellite radio.
Do recalls expire? ›As a general rule, recalls have no expiration date. Additionally, they will transfer from one owner to another. If you buy a used car and only later discover an open recall, you are entitled to the repair even though you were not the owner at the time of the recall.
Why is my Chevy Equinox shaking when I accelerate? ›Any unusual shaking or vibrating forces coming from the engine is cause for concern. It could be something as simple as old spark plugs producing an uneven power delivery, it could be something serious like worn or broken engine mounts, or it could be even more serious in the case of internal engine damage.
What is recall N212352530? ›The GM recall number is N212352530. It is a violation of federal law for a dealer to deliver a new motor vehicle or any new or used item of motor vehicle equipment (including a tire) covered by this notification until the defect is remedied. under certain operating conditions, which may increase the risk of a crash.
What is the lawsuit against 2012 Chevy Equinox oil consumption? ›In this class action against General Motors (GM), the plaintiffs allege that model year 2010–2013 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles equipped with 2.4-liter Ecotec engines have defective piston rings that are prone to premature wear resulting in excessive engine oil consumption.
What would cause a Chevy Equinox to burn oil? ›Design defects in GM's 2.4L Ecotec engine allow excess oil to sneak into the combustion chamber. The oil is burned off, meaning owners need to top off their oil between changes or risk permanent engine damage.
What is the lawsuit against 2014 Chevy Equinox oil consumption? ›
The lawsuits were consolidated into one claim representing owners and lessees of some Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain SUVs. The consolidated claim alleges that the Ecotec engines have defective piston rings that wear down prematurely and cause excessive oil consumption as high as one quart for every 1,000 miles.