general problems of the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox - part 1

This 2010 chevy Equinox has the 2. 4 liter motor that is recalled in similar vehicles by Chevrolet due to the piston rings having “blow by”. We have had to carry a quart of oil because of the constant consumption of oil, which led to the catalytic converter getting clogged. Most recently while traveling to denver cylinder 3 lost compression and put the vehicle into “limp mode” on [xxx] (xxx) with traffic traveling at 75mph and our car doing 20 mph trying to exit. I spoke to chevy customer service several years ago and was told “yes we know the issue however your VIN isn’t part of our recall, we’ve satisfied the nhtsb call for action”. In my research loss of compression due to “blow by” can be direct correlation to engine failure. Oil was checked as I always do before any road trip, no engine lights or warning signs were present, we were 210 miles from home when this happened, and had to rent a car to continue our trip to denver and return home to retrieve a truck and trailer to pick up our broken down vehicle located in silverthorne. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

I have a 2. 4 ltr chevy Equinox and the engine went out at 140000miles, no warning symbol. Left me stranded in the middle of nowhere, two days after being stuck in a rain storm, when I found out my wipers died.

I purchased this vehicle back last year and I put a lots of money into the engine and having troubles with it I’m just now finding out this type of vehicle I have has been recalled and I’m trying to see is there some type of way I can get it fix without coming out of my pockets like I already had engine light still on after I got the part put on and I don’t have money like that to keep getting it fix I have low income and trying to take my kids to school sometimes I be afraid to drive cause it keeps cutting off in middle of traffic problems with the catalytic converter and 02 sensors I change everything and still having trouble and out of money can somebody please help me no incidents just a recall and bad motor.

The contact owns a 2010 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving the vehicle, it jerked, stalled, and made a clicking sound when idling. The check engine light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken a local mechanic who stated the exhaust camshaft timing was over advanced beyond limits for a predetermined period of time, the system performance catalyst was low efficiency and the evaporator systems had a small leak. The contact state 2 calibers and the boot of the axil was previously repaired due to a leak. The mechanic stated the the contact needed to replace the engine variable valve timing. The vehicle was not repaired due to cost. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 124,823.

Vehicle started to make funny noise took to local repair shop and was informed it was the timing chain. Mechanic also told me he has been replacing quit a few on Equinox lately. Called cheverlot for assistance after looking online and seeing there was a special bulletin issued a while back. The representative never informed me of it during our call nor did they acknowledge it was a problem. The mechanic explained the dangers of it going out while driving and I think it's a pretty dangerous situation to have happen while driving. I was only informed of windshield wiper joint recall that I informed him I knew of already because mine went out while driving in the rain and had to go 2 days without wipers.

We were unaware of the oil consumption issue related to the 2010 Equinox. As a result we purchased one with less then 100 k miles, changed the oil, and sent my college bound daughter off with it. After driving just 4-5k miles in about 3-4 months the oil was very low and ruined the engine! now we are facing an engine replacement if the vehicles is even worth investing that much more money.

The contact owns a 2010 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while his wife was driving approximately 50 mph and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the vehicle coasted off to the side of the road. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent dealer where the vehicle was purchased. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that later while driving approximately 55 mph, and going left around a bend, there was an abnormal sound like metal snapping coming from the rear of the vehicle. The contact stated that the driver's side rear tire had stopped rolling. The contact stated that an unknown warning light was illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to the same dealer where it was purchased. The vehicle was diagnosed and determined that the rear subframe and suspension had collapsed due to extreme rust. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired; however, another failure occurred. The contact stated that after refueling the vehicle failed to start. The contact had the vehicle towed back to the same independent dealer. The dealer was unable repair the vehicle and informed the contact that the vehicle was to be auctioned off. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 158,000.

After taking my vehicle to three repair shops I was advised by the last body shop that there was a bulletin (14159) out in regards to excessive engine oil consumption. The mechanic explained the issues I am having with my car is due to the excessive engine oil consumption. He stated the car is not losing oil it’s burning it. My entire engine is effected due to this issue. To go further in detail my car was cutting on and off in the middle of traffic. This is a huge safety issue for me I have a disabled son who I travel with on the daily. I quote “ all consumers should receive notice of a recall affecting them. Car manufacturers are required to notify registered owners and purchasers of all recalled cars by letter, and state agencies will provide manufacturers with lists of registered owners for this purpose. ” I never received a letter concerning a recall or this issue. I took very well care of my vehicle my car is a 2010 Chevrolet Equinox and it only has 108,774miles. This is so devastating I have no other transportation and now I’m stuck looking for a new vehicle. If any documentation is needed I can assure you I can provide it.

The contact owns a 2010 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that on numerous occasions while driving at various speeds, she noticed a fuel odor throughout the vehicle. The contact then stated that while driving, the vehicle inadvertently decelerated and stalled. All the warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that she had wait approximately 30 minutes to restart the vehicle. The contact added that every one to two months, she had to include 1 quart of oil. The contact then stated that when she inserted the key in the ignition, the key became stuck. The contact had to jiggle to key to remove it from the ignition switch. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the variable solenoid valve and intake and exhaust. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer nor manufacturer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 192,000.

Horrible oil consumption issue. Piston rings are bad and the car doesn’t have that many miles. A huge issue with the Equinox.

Purchased a 2010 chevy Equinox from this chevy dealer in the pinehurst nc area in December 2022. Heard knocking noise start mid-March 2023. Vehicle seemed to go into "limp" mode and lost power (dangerous situation had vehicle been on interstate with no shoulder or exit ramp or could have been rear-ended due to sudden lack of power). No check engine light on at any time or when vehicle was taken to another chevy dealer (March 20, 2023). Initially, chevy dealer stated there were no issues. Insisted that the vehicle be checked again. Dealer took vehicle on test drive and then put on lift. Chevy dealer then stated oil loss issues and need to replace timing chains, actuators, gaskets, pistons, piston rings, oil coolant, water pump, balance chain, and other related parts. This is a design flaw in engine and piston rings causing excessive oil consumption which then leads to failure of other components. Was advised to change oil every 3,500 miles as opposed to going by the "oil" light and advised only to drive the vehicle sparingly and only if absolutely needed to drive.

High oil consumption. Low oil pressure and reduced engine power light activated. Car could not go more than 2 rpm. Issue continues to persist despite on time oil changes, adding oil as needed, etc.

The contact owns a 2010 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 mph, the vehicle began to lose forward motion. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal, and the vehicle failed to respond. The contact stated that the check engine and engine power reduced warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled, and he was able to pull off the roadway. The contact stopped and placed the vehicle in park(p) however, when he attempted to restart the vehicle, the vehicle would not restart. The contact checked the oil and saw that there was no oil on the dipstick. The contact had the vehicle towed to his residence where he was unable to restart the vehicle. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a dealer or to an independent mechanic. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 185,000.

The contact owns a 2010 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the exhaust module and the camshaft actuators needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired; however, while driving at 60 mph, the warning message "reduced power" illuminated. The contact stated that he immediately veered to the side of the road. The contact stated that he heard abnormal knocking sounds coming from the engine. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle. The contact stated that he continued to drive the vehicle; however, the failure reoccurred while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the accelerator pedal had failed. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 182,372.

Excessive engine repairs. I have done all the recalls and in November had to again have major engine work done on my car for excessive oil usage damaging the engine. I have also twice had transmission problems. In November my car just shut down in the middle of the highway and required major engine work done again. I have always made sure to do all the proper maintenance on this car. Now I am out of warranty and looking at around $6000 more in repairs again. I have been told by several car places that have looked at this car that there have been many problems with this car‘s engine. Engine light repeatedly goes on and when checked and fix goes off and goes back on within a week again. I have talk to GMC and they said because I am no longer under warranty nothing can be done. I feel like this car needs to be either replaced or the engine needs to be replaced by them. This last time has made me very worried since my car completely died in the middle of a busy highway.

I bought a chevy Equinox in 6/2020 and have had high oil consumption problems. I took it in to where I bought it and they said it was a catalog converter problem along with seals and pistons that could damage your engine. After researching it, I found out there was a recall and class action suit fought in 2018 for the same problem. I was never told about this from the dealer and because it's outside the date to fix under the recall and warranty I have to pay for all the damage. The car broke down yesterday and had to be towed. What can I do? I'm still financing the vehicle.

Bad engines are a known fact for this vehicle. Just too late for me. Found out too late that a new engine is over $5000,. According to the dealer and an independent repair shop it is not unusual for this vehicle to have engine problems. Uses excess amounts of oil and lights are late to come on. Expensive to tear down the engine,. So all they can do is the best knowledge of what they see and hear. The reviews for this car state the same thing. Cost more to repair than vehicle is worth. Once again a GMC product gets me. Just because my folks liked them. No more for me>.

The contact owns a 2010 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while checking the oil level, the dipstick was removed, and the contact detected an abnormal gasoline odor in the oil. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the local dealer, who stated the vehicle was not covered under a recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated there was no recall coverage for the failure. The contact stated that the failure was related to product emission recall: 43180 high pressure fuel pump. The failure mileage was approximately 73,740. The VIN was not available.

I have had my vehicle for only a year and bought it used from a dealership here in town. I understand that the vehicle is nearly 12 years old though I have seen vehicles that were way older and not have half the problems that I am having with mine and it has been well keep and maintenance has been up to date. Early this week my car had been warming up for nearly 30 minutes and I put it in drive and it jerk harder then normal. I just thought it was because it went from hot to cold outside overnight that that was the problem. Though as I was driving down the street my check engine light came on and the vehicle was stalling in between 35-40 mph. So I got it check out and the code said that it was a transmission shift solenoid. I then took it to chevy to make sure that, that was the issues and the dealership penske Chevrolet confirmed that it was and that many of the Equinox’s, cruzes, and traverses from the year 2009 until 2019 health exact same issue and that several people did the complaint form in their dealership I did research online and it’s true many people complain about this issue but I think they don’t know where to go to file a proper complaint. I think that this problem not being recalled is absurd because it’s costing people nearly 4, five, $6000 because of this issue when if many and I do mean many people are having this issue then chevy needs to fix this.

Vehicle burns oil at a high rate due to an engine piston ring problem. If not checked on a weekly basis you will get low oil pressure throwing the car into limp mode decreasing engine power immediately. I know people that had this problem addressed by gm free of charge as a recall. I want to know if my vehicle qualifies for this recall. Currently this vehicle requires 1 quart of oil weekly in order to keep oil level full. If I am driving the vehicle and this would happen again it might not cause an accident but currently my wife and daughter use the car and they might not be able to handle the situation if it would occur. Thank you.

I have had oil consumption problems. Changed oil before due made all maintenance work on time or before due. Right after I bought it I put the main seal in it. Because it was leaking oil. That was$1000 more added to my loan. Put 4 hub bears on the front because of the steering instabilities which corrected it for a short time. But now that I am trying to sell the car I hear there is a recall on the motor but when I run it here there isn't so I am stuck. It hurts me to ride or drive it due to spine issues. And now I am stuck with this SUV. Thank you gm for having us buy american.

The contact owns a 2010 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving 35 mph, the vehicle unintendedly accelerated to approximately 75 mph. The contact stated that upon depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The vehicle stalled, and the contact was able to pull to the side of the road. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to restart and was towed to the dealer it was purchased from. The dealer informed the contact that there was no oil in the vehicle even though an oil change had been performed on the vehicle. The dealer replaced the upper part of the engine; however, the failure recurred while driving. The contact stated while driving 65 mph, the vehicle started shuddering, made abnormal sounds and stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the lower part of the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline for the VIN to be added in an unknown related recall. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

2. 4-liter ecotec engines suffer from the defect that consumes oil at a very high rate. The primary cause of the defect is malfunctioning piston rings, which are prone to premature wear, the judge's order states. The defect necessitates the need for the car owner to replenish the car's oil more frequently. We change oil every month because of this problem but now is worse because is coming now white smoke and shaking all the engine so its now out of road my Equinox so I am waiting for this solution from gm but not answers.

It uses oil like crazy. We have changed everything,besides getting a new motor. I was driving home from work tonight and the abs and traction control light came on out of no where. My brakes where trying to lock up. When you crank it now it makes a funny noice.

While the vehicle was parked in the driveway, stationary, all night, all morning, key was not in the ignition, no one around, it started by itself. No one was in the vehicle and the doors locked. When next door neighbor left his house, in the morning, he noticed it was running and checked to see if the key was in the ignition, it wasn�t, and then if we were around, we weren�t. Then he touched the hood of the car to see if it was hot, it wasn't and waited until the vehicle turned off. It ran for about 20 minutes before it turned off. We were told in the evening of what happened and went to see if the vehicle would start with the key and it did.

I love my car was so proud of bessy! I was on my way to work and it just stopped. Wouldn't crank. Got it home to be told that it's the timing chain. That's $1000-$1500 that I don't have. Especially since I'm taking care of my mother n law since my father n law died from cancer. And now my husband can't work due to being almost crippled. I started doing some research due to hearing about a lot of problems with the vehicle after I bought it. Turns out that a lot of people, almost everybody who owns a chevy Equinox has the same problem! why is this?? why has this not been fixed yet?? why keep making the same mistake again again?? now my car is sitting in the yard. I have a 7 yr old son that I can't even take to the doctor with no way of going or the rest of my family. Someone please tell me what is chevelot going to do about this??? I was hoping one day to get a brand new one! please help!!!.

Had a oil change April 15 2020. Car was driving fine on may 26 driving and white smoke comes out of nowhere. No low engine light or nothing just a sad day.

This 2010 chevy Equinox consumes a lot of oil, like every tank of gas I have to add oil. This shouldn't be.

I bought my used 2010 chevy Equinox from the dealer, and 2 weeks later the service stabilitrak light came on. Took it to the dealer, they did an alignment and the same day the light came back on with traction control light. The next day I went to the grocery store, and when I tried to start it to leave it wouldn't start. After 2 tries, it finally started but then the reduced engine power light came on and wouldn't go above 25 mph. Eventually the vehicle powered down and I had to pull over for a tow truck to come. The chevy dealer said it was the main timing chain (not covered) and something else in the engine but I would have to pay for labor to disassemble it. My car has been out of service and sitting at the dealer for now 10 days. Luckily I wasn't on the highway when this happened, and decided to go to the store before heading to work. Carfax reports indicate the timing chain and fuel pump was replaced at 40,000 miles already. I see a lot of people with this problem in much scarier situations. I believe this should be a recall before something happens.

Tl the contact owns a 2010 Chevrolet Equinox. While driving approximately 45 mph, the check engine warning indicator illuminated. While driving home, the air bag warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 126,096.

Changed windshied motors and the go right back to not working within a week. . Here recently ive had to put a extreme amout of oil in it its losing oil out of no where can drive 5 miles down the road and then its gone now it has started to smoke really bad when I drive it after oil is in and has now got the car to start a small knkck it has been parked for the time being for scared of it doing worse its been parked since it started to smoke. . It will lose power at sum points and not let me drive faster then 25 mph then all the sudden pick back up and act just fine. . The car will smoke so bad that another car behind me will have to stop completely and wait until smoke is clear. . All lights on the dash is also on.

Timing and or balance chain to the engine is stretched and could result in breakage. This can happen at anytime. This has been a known issue with this engine as reported in gm special coverage 12312d that specifically covers 2010-2011 Chevrolet Equinox, along with 3 other model vehicles. My VIN is not flagged as part of this special coverage although it is causing the same issue with the same model and year as depicted in the special coverage.

Transmission is bad. When I try to accelerate it doesn't go anywhere and its skipping gears and bucking prior to it finally no longer driveable.

Was driving on the road. The stabili track came on again had this replaced last year, came on the the car completely shut off while in drive in the middle of the road. Scared me to death. Had to have to have towed, now I'm looking at paying more to get it fixed then what I owe on it.

I only have 99,500 miles on my 2010 Equinox running good and I keep up on the maintenance and for no reason the timing chain stretched and jumped when I went to start it one day.