8.4

pretty bad
Typical Repair Cost:
$3,140
Average Mileage:
76,250 miles
Total Complaints:
97 complaints

Most common solutions:

  1. not sure (58 reports)
  2. replace rings and pistons (21 reports)
  3. replace engine (8 reports)
  4. replace intake and output solenoids (4 reports)
  5. new pistions and rings (2 reports)
  6. replace rear main seal, exhaust manifold, & o2 sensor (2 reports)
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This problem may be covered under warranty. Ask your Chevrolet dealer.

« Read the previous 20 complaints

problem #57

Jan 262019

Equinox

  • Automatic transmission
  • 76,000 miles

Bought Equinox new in 2013, had it serviced regularly, oil changed every 3000 mile, driven by my wife. Paid off November 2018. Car started sputtering on a trip and broke down along side the road with 76000 miles on it. Towed to a Chevy dealer, dealer said engine needed replaced, cause low oil, contacted Chevy customer service, a week later they got back to me. They offered to cover 30% of the dealer estimate of $7200, but the dealer had to use a new Chevy engine, which is apparently $2500 more than a 3rd party engine. So disappointed Chevy knew this was an issue and chose not to contact owners. Long story short, if you have GM stock, sell now, because no one in my family will ever purchase a GM product again and from reading the complaints, that's the going theme.

- Nelson E., Penn Yan, US

problem #56

Aug 012018

Equinox LT 4

  • Automatic transmission
  • 65,000 miles

After having to make numerous to a doctor 150 miles away (one way) my husband decided to check my oil. This was 2000 miles after oil change. We added oil. I contacted Chevrolet. They asked me to my local dealer for an oil consumption test. Each time after one thousand miles they added some oil. I had to make the trip to Columbia this last time every week for six weeks for injections. My car used 2 1/2 quarts of oil. The dealer says that is within Chevrolet guide lines! What can I expect at 100,000 miles? The Chevrolet rep keeps asking if my car is fixed? So she says she's contacting Scenic Chevrolet. At any rate my car is burning oil and they say the engine was designed to do so. I asked if they tell people that? The studdering starts then. I really hold no hope they'll fix my car. It makes me sick.

Update from Dec 17, 2018: My update is they want me to do an oil consumption test with a dealer 26 miles away. This after they told me the Equinox is operating within Chevrolet guidelines. And I quote " it was designed to do this". When I ask if they tell people that, they begin to studder

Update from Feb 1, 2019: Chevrolet has asked me now to do an oil consumption test with a dealer 26 miles away. My appointment is next

week, (we're still 2000 miles from sticker change). My husband checked it yesterday, it's down to one mark till no

oil. So now until I see them Wednesday, I'm afraid to drive my car. This time I haven't been to Columbia this is

round town driving! I'm sick of this car. It has not been fixed nor do I believe they will fix it.

- Alice G., Seneca, US

problem #55

Oct 202018

Equinox LTX 2.4L 4 cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 81,000 miles

This has been ongoing for a while but adding oil would solve the problem temporarily. My car was not correctly monitoring my oil levels and I would find it bone dry long before I was due for an oil change. It would hop up and down while idling at stop lights. It got progressively worse.

I had a mechanic change out the spark plugs and add oil. He said this was short-term fix and the larger fix was probably not worth it as it would be at least a couple thousand dollars. We started checking the oil levels weekly.

Finally, regardless of having oil, it began to not accelerate, bounce up and down while idling, and it was seemingly not safe to drive. It would also stall out on me when sitting in traffic. I took it to another mechanic, and he said the piston would need to be replaced, which would be well over a grand, and that would not be worth putting into this car.

- Katherine G., Nashville, TN, US

problem #54

Jan 112019

Equinox LE 4 cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 55,300 miles

We have a 2013 Chevy Equinox, that is useless and it isn’t even paid off. We had no idea there was a problem with our car until this morning when it quit running. After having it tow to our mechanic, we found out there was no oil and the engine was fried. We just had the oil changed less than 2 months ago. No oil light ever came on. We are very diligent about our oil changes. Now we have a car with 55,000 miles and it needs a new engine, which our mechanic says will be a waste because the engines for this car all have the same issues.

When I called the dealer, he told me I should be checking the oil weekly, if I would have I would have noticed the low oil and then my engine would not have been destroyed. I have never heard of checking your oil weekly, I don’t even put gas in it weekly. I told him the oil light never came on, which he ignored.

Any suggestions at all do I just junk a car I still owe $5000 on. Or pay $3000 - $4000, to fix it and then trade it in.

- Daniel M., Erie, US

problem #53

Aug 012017

Equinox LX 2.4L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 65,000 miles

I had issues with my 2013 Equinox starting sometime in Spring 2017. I noticed between oil changes I was having to add a quart or so of oil. After some online research about issues with these cars burning oil, I contacted a local Chevrolet dealer and they recommended to me that I bring the car in for an "oil consumption test." After having to start the "oil consumption test" a second time, (directions were not clear on the initial instructions to bring the car in every 1,000 miles and was told to come in when it was 1 qt low), the vehicle clearly failed and GM was notified by the dealership. I was down 3.75 quarts by the end of the test. I was then informed by the dealership, per GM, because the car fell out of warranty while completing the "oil consumption test" that they could only assist with a $1550 payment towards the cost of $3100 in engine repairs. These oil issues started around 55K miles. I was irate and sent a letter to Chevrolet Divisional as recommended by a "senior advisor" (866) 790-5600 back in June 2018 to ask them to fix the problem.

Now here we are in 9/2018, no word from "Chevrolet Divisional PO Box 33170, Detroit, MI 48232-5170 and yet another call to Chevrolet to fight for what is right and still seeking a "no cost repair" to my vehicle. At this time, I am driving around with an extra quart of oil in my back seat. Really, at 70K miles at this point and 3+ quarts added between oil changes, there obviously is a known proven problem and they don't care. They ignore it. Not happy, but I'll keep after Chevrolet for repairs.

- Brenda C., Hope, US

problem #52

Jan 012015

Equinox

  • Automatic transmission
  • 75,000 miles

Never, ever buy a Chevy Equinox. Currently have a 2013 Chevy Equinox and the thing is a piece of garbage. It eats oil at an excessive rate. Don't have a leak so its going somewhere? This has been going on for quite some time but have always got the run around. We now have a case of oil in the car at all times so that we can add oil when there is none in it. I just called the dealer today because I have seen all the reviews about this happening to a lot of customers.

They told me that they would have to do an oil consumption test to determine if there is in fact an issue. That would be at my expense! Are you kidding!??? But, if it is determined that I haven't been imagining things and that the car is a piece of junk then we would be responsible for the repairs since the warranty ended in Feb 2018. The oil has been an ongoing issue and I have always mentioned that when I take it into the shop, whether it be the dealer or local garage. I am always told the same thing. Cars use oil, there are no recalls, blah, blah, blah. I don't know how many solenoids have been replaced on this thing.

And, just in April 2018, I had it at the dealer for a week because the engine light was on and it failed emissions for inspection. It needed a new exhaust manifold because it was cracked, the catalyst in the converter melted internally resulting in needing a new catalytic converter. The oil usage was also mentioned at this visit. If stopped at a light, the car will rock back and forth and it sounds like a tractor trailer.

I'ts down right terrible that Chevy is doing nothing in regards to fixing these issues and making things right for their customers. We spent over $30,000 on a lemon and Chevy is taking no responsibility for making junk cars. They have been aware of these problems for quite some time. I was told by customer service today that my particular VIN # needs to be affected? Well, I'm the one driving the vehicle...I don't need you to tell me if its affected or not, IT IS!!! And, I most certainly should not have to pay for an oil consumption test for it to tell you exactly what I'm telling you! And I most certainly should not have to pay for repairs on a vehicle that was poorly made.

Maybe if Chevy would have addressed these issues instead of ignoring them it may have not affected so many people. We will never purchase another Chevy/GM vehicle again.

- Kevin H., Pittsburgh, US

problem #51

Dec 172017

Equinox LS 2.4L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 60,000 miles

My equinox is now at 95k miles. I am sitting in the dealership for the second time since my last oil change due to low oil. GM does not have my vehicle listed as covered under the "special condition" as it does not have the specific pistons.

Very frustrated, as this was first identified before the power train warranty expired, but was not a known issue to GM at the time. Apparently, there is a class action lawsuit being developed, and I will be joining if it is not covered.

- Steven T., newark, DE, US

problem #50

Jan 102017

Equinox LS 2.4L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 66,024 miles

Totally shocked when a routine service visit showed 2 1/2 quarts low, no warning lights, total engine overhaul with pistons, rings, timing chain. Glad it was under warranty!

- George G., Hot Springs, US

problem #49

Jul 182018

Equinox LT 2.4L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 61,626 miles

I have a 2013 Chevrolet LT. On 07/18/18 in the early AM, prior to making an out of town trip for a doctor appointment, I checked the oil level and no oil on dipstick. I called dealer and informed them of my situation. They told me there was no way they could take me that day. So, I drove to town and bought 2 quarts Synthetic oil and brought the oil to an acceptable level to drive it elsewhere to get an oil change to make the trip.The mileage on this vehicle since oil change was 5,685.

I drove vehicle an additional 1,259 miles and again it was a quart low since oil change. This vehicle has unexpectedly twice in the past couple of months has cutoff on startup. I have been a GM customer for years and always get 150,000 to 200,000 miles out of a vehicle and never experienced oil consumption like this.

Also note, I personally spoke with Service Manager and admitted there is a problem. He instructed me to come back in 1,000 miles and allow them to check oil, which I did and it was ok at this time, because I had added oil on a trip. I took vehicle back for # 2 1.000 mile check on 08/16/2018.

On 08/24/ I drove vehicle 546 miles and it used another quart. I called Service to advise him and was told to bring in vehicle after the following Wednesday 08/30/18. I called service department to check on schedule for me to bring vehicle in and was told that all 4 of their GM loaner vehicles were out and they could not tell me when the loaners would be available. The service department said they had vehicles torn down for the same problem and are now waiting on parts.

The service department also informed me that they could not give me an estimate on down time , once parts came in.

Now here I am 09/04/18 still waiting and adding oil and dealer and/or GM can't get parts or so I am told. Sounds to me GM and dealer hopes I will go away along with the problem. If GM has known of problem why have they not ramped up production to get this corrected. The vehicle now has approximately 63,400 mile and I am going out of town again with a cargo area of oil to add.

I do nod think GM cares, except to sell units. OIL CONSUMPTION!!!!!

- Jimmy H., Crumpler, NC, US

problem #48

May 082018

Equinox LT 2.4L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 87,000 miles

Car making funny noise. Check engine light comes on and diagnostic test shows: intake outtake solenoid issue. Had to have both the intake and outtake solenoids replaced. After a few months check engine light comes back on and diagnostic indicates catalytic converter is bad.

I am informed these engines burn oil internally and CHEVY knows about it but will do nothing. Now I am told the coast of replacing catalytic converter is $1750.90. I guess I'll have to bend over and take one from CHEVY if I want to be able to use the car.

I USED TO BE A CHEVY GUY BUT NOW I WILL NEVER OWN ANOTHER CHEVY BECAUSE THEY DON'T FIX THEIR PROBLEMS.

- Jim R., Farmville, VA, US

problem #47

Mar 132018

Equinox LT 4 cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 110,496 miles

I still owe a years payment on this car. Now they tell me it is burning oil. Already had the spark plugs replaced, 300 dollars. Single 55 year old female don't need to be breaking down somewhere by myself. Can't afford to get a new car. This is bull! I have seen all the complaints about this car and CHEVY will do NOTHING. Really? It is pretty bad when you are scared to drive your car.

- Cheryl M., Mansfield, TX, US

problem #46

Jun 012018

Equinox LS

  • Automatic transmission
  • 60,000 miles

My 2013 Equinox started consuming oil. Would have not known about the on going issues without the complaints on this site. I have driven Chevy's for years. Due to the fact that GM is not fixing the problem, I will not buy another GM vehicle. I am a single woman and need a reliable vehicle. I did get rid of the Equinox and bought a Ford. Shame on you Chevrolet!

- Regina H., Annapolis, MD, US

problem #45

Jul 012018

Equinox LS

  • Automatic transmission
  • 77,800 miles

A year ago, I was coming due for an oil change. My car started to "sputter" while stopped at a red light. Best description... it would shake a little. Got the oil change, shaking stopped. This happened again as I came near to the end of my oil life the next time. Changed the oil, no problems. My husband does these oil changes because they're easy.

A couple months ago (2,852 miles to be exact) he did the next one. One day I parked on a hill. I backed out of the spot, put the car in drive and it stalled and shut off. Must be a fluke, the engine light didn't come on. Checked the oil, and the dipstick showed oil (my husband checked it, do not sure how much was on it... he and my father in law thought I was crazy).

A month later, it happened again. The next day it happened again, twice. Each time I was coming out of park. I quit, time to take it to the shop; I'm not driving it again till I figure out what's wrong. There's now no oil on my dipstick. None. Also, it's showing codes, but not ones that will turn on your light. Wait. A problem directly related to the engine and being OUT OF OIL won't activate my light?

There are metal shavings in my crankshaft (i think) they need to replace intake and output solenoid and do an oil change. Remember, this is 2,852 miles into my 6,000 mile oil change. $415 later, I'm ready to trade in this car instead of waiting for the engine to burn up. Fix this, GM. I am pretty confident that I will never buy another Chevy, but I love(d) this car 😕

- Emily C., Westminster, MD, US

problem #44

Mar 012018

Equinox LTZ 2.4L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 107,000 miles

This car burns 3 quarts of oil or more every 5000 miles. I took it to Chevy dealer and they said my VIN did not flag any recalls or service issues. I travel many miles and now I have to take a case of oil with me. Very sad for a $30,000+ car. I purchased this car new in December 2012 it obviously should have been a part of the many bad engines that Chevy repaired or replaced. Time to file another class action lawsuit to force Chevy to take responsibility for their mistakes.

- D.w. B., Jonesborough, TN, US

problem #43

Sep 012017

Equinox LTZ

  • Automatic transmission
  • 56,000 miles

This car EATS oil. No help from Dealer or Chevy. I cannot not keep up with this car's need for oil and driving without oil causes a whole boatload of other problems....

- smuel001, Napa, US

problem #42

Jan 062014

Equinox LT 4 cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 21,748 miles

THIS CAR IS A PIECE of SH*T!!! Never have I ever had a car with so many problems, from electrical to engine. It burns oil like a Mother Fu**ker. I have to replace oil every month - and top up at least twice between oil changes. Never again will I ever by a Equinox. Had several issues with electrical over the years as well - A passenger seat belt chime that goes off randomly when no one or nothing is on the seat. Middle of the night, the lights come on for no reason. Freaking car is haunted. Replaced the battery and wiring several times..

On the plus side - it fits 2 hockey bags in the back... That's about it. Can't wait to send this P.O.S. to the junk yard where it belongs. Complete waste of money.

- Wonda M., Chilliwack, BC, Canada

problem #41

May 012018

Equinox

  • Automatic transmission
  • 150,000 miles

The car is a deathtrap it shakes on start up, and is consuming way too much oil. Dealership who sold me vehicle did not know anything about it and now will not do anything to fix it. They will not get me out of the vehicle and they said it’s all in my head. Had an oil change on April 8, 2018 and on April 30, 2018 I had absolutely no oil in the engine, and the way I was treated by the dealership was horrible. They led me to believe that they were going to take care of the problem and yet I had to pay over $500 to have the car fixed and I’m forced to drive it after they promised me they would get me out of the equinox and into a better car. I’m scared to drive this vehicle and my husband is scared for me to drive the vehicle. Every time I get into my vehicle I pray that it starts

- Sheri J., Fort Worth, TX, US

problem #40

Apr 012018

Equinox LT 2.4L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 50,000 miles

I AM AN AMERICAN AND I DRIVE NOTHING BUT CHEVY. I GOT MY FAMILY HOOKED ON THEM, BUT THIS 2.4L CRAP IS COSTING ME MORE THAN MY 2 TAHOES AND SILVERADO COMBINED IN MONEY AND OIL. GM NEED TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS.

- Oral V., Orange, US

problem #39

May 042018

Equinox LT 2.4L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 118,000 miles

GM has refused to cover my 2013 Chevy equinox for the special coverage of 2010-2014 equinox with less than 120,000 miles (mine has 118,000). This is to correct the high oil consumption and oil leak problem. I was denied the ability to have my car looked at the dealership because my vin number didn't flag my car despite the above criteria match of year and mileage!? Thus, had to take back to my mechanic as he was the one that originally sent me to the dealership for the repair because his initial diagnosis confirmed the problem. Having no choice, he did the manual repair and confirmed the intake manifold/pcv/crankshaft seal problem. Thus, I'm out $686.43 plus rental car for 3 days and 3 hours of my time in a huge GM problem that should be a mandatory recall. By them randomly eliminating or only allowing a certain percentage thru, they are saving millions in repairs and ultimately screwing us the consumers. Class action lawsuit time yet!?!?

- oilslick, Bradenton, US

problem #38

Apr 242018

Equinox 2LT 2.4L Eco

  • Automatic transmission
  • 39,782 miles

I bought my 13 Chevy Equinox on March 19th 2018 it had 37800 miles on it. On April 11th 2018 I ask for them to do a replacement of the pcv related issues because I didn't want to blow my rear main seal when it gets to freezing temperatures. They said they checked for leaks and that's as far as they went. I warned them that with this make and model it will be an issue and begged them to do what the 14822 service bulletin said to do. They said no and off I went.

So from April 11th 2018 to April 24th I made it to the NAPA in my town and checked the oil and the dipstick was dry. I added one quart of oil and still nothing. Added another quart and still nothing. I waited a few moments checked it and it was just on the tip of the dipstick from 2 quarts of oil. Then added another and it was finally on the dipstick. I added one last quart just to make sure and off I went.

I called my Chevy dealer and they will be fixing it, free of charge. I also purchased an extended warranty and they are covering it because I just purchased the car, if I had it for 6 month to a year, I would have had to use the extended warranty and pay a deductible of I believe $500.00. I'm not impressed with Chevy and I'm a Chevy fan!!!!!

- bethjo23, Morrisville, US

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