Crankcase (pcv) Problems of Chevrolet Equinox - part 1

I am filing this complaint regarding a safety-related engine problem with my 2016 Chevrolet Equinox. My vehicle is currently experiencing excessive crankcase pressure associated with the pcv system. The vehicle requires pcv service, and I have been advised that the excessive crankcase pressure has contributed to multiple engine oil leaks, including a timing cover leak and front main seal leak. I am concerned that the underlying pcv/crankcase-pressure problem is causing or contributing to these failures rather than these being isolated gasket or seal failures. Excessive crankcase pressure can force engine oil past seals and gaskets, resulting in significant oil loss. This creates a safety concern because an engine oil leak can worsen suddenly and result in substantial loss of engine oil, potentially causing engine damage or engine failure while the vehicle is being driven. Oil contamination of the serpentine belt is also concerning because it can affect the belt's ability to operate properly and may result in belt failure and loss of engine-driven components. I believe the pcv/crankcase ventilation issue should be investigated as a potential underlying defect in the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether there is a recurring safety defect involving the pcv system, excessive crankcase pressure, resulting oil-seal/gasket failures, and associated oil contamination in these vehicles. I am also concerned that owners may be required to pay for multiple repairs to correct the consequences of an underlying pcv/crankcase pressure problem. The vehicle is currently in need of repair for the pcv system, excessive crankcase pressure, front main seal, timing cover gasket, and oil-contaminated serpentine belt. The timing chain may also require replacement depending on the inspection and extent of damage. Documents are included.

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This is a 2025 vehicle with 25,000 miles and the check engine soon light stays illuminated due to a faulty pcv valve or possibly a poorly designed crankcase. The engine code is p04fb and is commonly found as an issue when you do a search. As a safety precaution, the vehicle is programmed to not allow the remote start to work as designed when the engine light is on so this issue affects the overall functionality of the car. Having spoken with the dealership, they report seeing that engine code often and that the part is on backorder. The dealership seems to think it's the crankcase causing the issue and not the pcv valve as the fix they have been ordering for them is the case. It will potentially go away as the weather is hotter, but if a chilly night or morning comes up, then the light will come back on because there is moisture buildup on the pcv valve when the temperature drops that causes the light to come on. With all of the complaints I have read online for this very issue, I would like to see NHTSA step up and make chevy fix their problem. Thank you.

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I started up my car on a cold winter morning and I heard a loud popping noise. I backed up my car minutes later and discovered puddles of oil in front of me in my driveway. I asked my husband to come out and look. He got under the car and said my oil blew out of the rear seal. I was unable to drive my car as the seal was blown. After some investigating I discovered it was the pcv valve that froze and blew out the rear seal. I discovered that basil Ford was sent this bulletin and told to clean the pcv valve when people brought their car in. They never reached out and told me to bring the car in to have this done. It could have been an easy fix. I also discovered by researching that people had this happen to them when they were driving on the highway and it caused them accidents. I called GMC and they are telling me my 2016 isn't in the class action suit. Basil wanted way too much money so I took it to pep boys and it cost me $3,000 to have the pcv valve replaced with the kit that prevents it from freezing up again and I had to replace my manifold and my rear seal.

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving at 45 mph, the vehicle stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. The vehicle was temporarily restarted. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with pcv failure. The vehicle was not repaired and was sold due to the cost of the repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 74,400.

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The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving approximately 58 mph, the message “engine power reduced” was displayed, and the vehicle unintendedly decelerated to 30 mph. The vehicle was taken to the nearest exit and to the nearest gas station. The contact waited for a while before driving to the residence, while not exceeding 30 mph. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic, who diagnosed that the positive crankcase ventilation (pcv) valve, bypass tube, the injector seal set, an unspecified plug, and the vacuum pump seal had failed, and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Codes p2227 and code p0299 are coming up machine says this is a known issue with 2021 to 2023 chevy Equinox and there is a lot of water in intake and engine is in limp mode 1. 5l engine, are known to experience issues with moisture accumulation in the intake system, specifically within the charge air cooler (cac). In cold temperatures, this moisture can freeze, causing reduced engine power, stalling, and illuminated check engine lights (dtcs p0299, p2227, p0300). Key details regarding the problem: cause: moisture from the pcv system and ambient humidity builds up in the cac, which can freeze during cold weather. Affected models: 2018-2022 chevy Equinox and other gm vehicles with small-displacement turbocharged engines. Symptoms: reduced power, stalling, rough idle, and engine light in cold, humid, or snowy conditions. I would like for the VIN number check to be expanded if my car is experiencing this issue under a VIN that is not coming up for recalls or a factory warranty then other people are having the same issues.

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The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while reversing the vehicle on a cold, snowy day, there was oil on the driveway. There was a fuel odor inside the vehicle, and the engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who determined that the failure was related to the pcv system. The mechanic stated that the pcv valve was clogged, causing the gasket to fail. The vehicle was partially repaired. The mechanic later informed the contact that other repairs were necessary. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that there were no recalls associated with the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by the dealer. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that there was no recall coverage associated with the VIN for the repair. The contact was referred to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 113,000.

Frozen pcv that blew rear engine seal.

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On 1/27/26, while driving at highway speeds, I received a "reduced engine power" alert. I was forced to pull over immediately; the vehicle stalled before I could reach a complete stop. This left me stranded in dangerously cold temperatures for an extended period while awaiting a tow. Upon inspection, I was informed that the engine has failed and requires a complete replacement. This is highly distressing for several reasons: * low mileage: the vehicle has only 54,000 miles and is well under the expected lifespan of a modern engine. * meticulous maintenance: as a loyal customer, I have had every scheduled oil change and service performed at my local Chevrolet dealership. My service history will confirm that this vehicle has been maintained to the highest standards. * brand loyalty: I have been a dedicated Chevrolet owner for years, having purchased five brand-new vehicles from your dealerships. I chose Chevrolet based on a reputation for reliability that, in this instance, has not been met. "I am specifically concerned because my vehicle's symptoms align with special coverage adjustment #14882 (pcv icing). Given that the failure occurred during extreme cold and resulted in immediate engine failure, it appears to be the exact scenario outlined in your technical service bulletins regarding the 2. 4l engine. I am requesting that this repair be handled under that special coverage or a similar goodwill extension. " my research indicates that this specific engine model has a documented history of similar issues. Given my history with the brand and the premature nature of this failure, I am requesting that Chevrolet review my case for a goodwill repair adjustment or a significant cost-sharing assistance for the engine replacement.

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2017 Chevrolet Equinox lt with a 2. 4l ecotec engine. The pcv system froze due to the cold weather conditions caused the rear main seal to blow futher causing cylinder scoring to the engine. I got it checked out by a local mechanic that actually works with the extended warranty company called silverrock that's provided from the dealership drivetime from who I financed the truck from. The mechanic shop name is hoekstra muffler and alignment located at 722 w 151st st, east chicago, in 46312. They were the ones to diagnose the problem and provided me with a diagnostic sheet for this issue. The vehicle has not been checked by a Chevrolet technician yet. I took the truck in for a regular maintenance oil change on January 8th at walmart in portage, indiana. My truck was driving fine and suddenly on January 20th my truck seized on the highway on my way to work at 7am. A warning light marking low oil pressure turn off engine was marking on my dashboard. After I was in a safe spot on the side of the expressway, I have life360 and proceeded to call for a tow truck. When the tow truck driver arrived in order to put the car in neutral he has to jump start my Equinox. My truck will only start if it's jumped and keep the cables connected, otherwise it shuts off.

According to our mechanic, our vehicle’s pcv system became clogged and it increased the pressure in our engine and caused the car’s rear main seal to rupture, leading to catastrophic oil loss, loss of power to the vehicle, and engine damage. In our case the entire engine needed to be replaced.

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The 2015 Chevrolet Equinox equipped with the 2. 4l ecotec engine has been reported to have excessive oil consumption due to several issues: defective piston rings: the oil control rings are prone to sticking and clogging, leading to oil blowby and excessive consumption. Pcv system issues: problems with the positive crankcase ventilation (pcv) system can create excessive vacuum in the crankcase, contributing to oil consumption. Timing chain problems: the timing chain can stretch over time, leading to misalignment and potential engine damage. Regular maintenance: owners are advised to monitor oil levels frequently and consider using synthetic oil for better performance and longevity. These issues can lead to significant engine wear if not addressed promptly. My vehicle is using too much oil. The 2. 4l eco tec engine is installed in this vehicle. The Chevrolet dealership in rockwall texas texted me that the engine is bad and needs replacing. The vehicle is past is warranty, so the dealership is using that reason, to not fix this issue. The estimated cost to replace the engine is approximately $11000. 00.

Pcv valve froze due to poor design and crankcase couldn't vent which blew out the rear main seal. Obvious design flaw.

Clogged pcv caused engine pressure resulting in failure of rear main seal.

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? - 2. 4l engine failure. Pcv system froze Dec 05 2025. Crankcase pressure increased and caused the rear main engine seal to fail, which inturn allowed all the engine oil to leak out. Due to oil starvation the timing chain components failed. Additional internal engine damage is possible, but not yet confirmed. Failed parts will be available for inspection. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? engine failure while driving with no notice. Happened on a day with sub zero wind chill. Stalled vehicle poses a safety risk to occupants and other drivers. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? unknown has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? unknown were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? unknown.

After very cold winter weather, car started to smell. Pcv valve blew and car was seizing causing it to blow out the rear systems. It had spilled oil onto the garage floor and had a bad emissions smell. Dealership said they added 3 quarts of oil and that within 30 minutes two quarts leaked out. No warning lights on dashboard, no affected cautions through the Equinox app (which still shows that I have 80% of my oil still remaining). While driving the car started making a ticking sound during acceleration and a bad smell. I am now left with a $3700 bill. Numerous others have detailed exact experiences with their Equinox after the last February, cold spell in chicagoland. I was very fearful driving the car and my safety was compromised. The car was shaking, and the smell was pungent right now my car is at the dealership so I do not have the invoice.

My vehicle had a pool of oil beneath it and a trail behind it due to a faulty pcv. I had it towed to the certified dealer and they told me it was a pcv valve issue, due to the cold temperatures, ice was able to accumulate and caused a pressure build up inside of the hose or something of the sort. With that being said, the pressure caused the seal to pop off and allowed for the oil to leak out and get all over the engine/parts within the engine. The dealership let me know they were aware and had correspondence about this particular issue. There was no sound prior to the decline of my engine, no indicator on the dash, and this issue can happen so quickly that there's no time to respond or reverse damage that was made. My engine no longer works and was told I would need to purchase a new one, despite the fact this issue could happen again with a new engine regardless of routine upkeep. Dealership confirmed the engine was damaged, the oil was depleted, and the pcv was to blame. There were no warning signs, it happened quite quickly, and I fear that if this incident didn't happen at night, my vehicle would have slowed or completely stopped at a rate that would have prevented other drivers from steering clear of me and harming themselves or me. Thankfully it wasn't a busy night. I was going 80km/hr and my vehicle slowed to barely 30 km/hr without being able to accelerate. At home, the engine shut down, and again a pool of oil was found before being towed to the certified dealership I had my routine inspection done at a few months prior. Vehicle previously register in texas, now resides in canada where incident occurred.

In February of 2025, while driving my 2016 chevy Equinox home from work, I heard a loud pop and loss of engine power a block from home. The weather conditions at the time were below freezing and light snow. After getting my vehicle home, my neighbor, who works for gm looked under my Equinox and discovered the rear main oil seal had blown and informed me this was a known issue with the gm 2. 4l ecotec engine. The gm 2. 4l ecotec engine contains a non?serviceable positive crankcase ventilation (pcv) system that uses a fixed orifice built into the intake manifold instead of a replaceable pcv valve. In cold weather, moisture and vapor inside the crankcase can freeze or accumulate as sludge within this orifice. When the orifice becomes obstructed, the pcv system can no longer vent crankcase gases properly, causing internal pressure to rise significantly. This condition is most common in sub?freezing temperatures and is documented in multiple gm technical bulletins. When crankcase pressure increases beyond normal operating limits, the pressure seeks the weakest escape point, which is often the rear main seal. As pressure builds, the rear main seal can rupture suddenly, resulting in an immediate and severe oil leak. This failure can occur without warning and may lead to rapid oil loss, environmental contamination, and potential engine damage if the vehicle continues to operate. The defect is inherent to the pcv system design and is not related to owner maintenance practices. General motors has been aware of pcv system obstruction issues in the 2. 4l ecotec engine since at least 2013, when internal service bulletins first documented rear main seal failures caused by crankcase over?pressurization in cold weather. Gm issued additional bulletins in 2014, 2016, and 2019, each reiterating the same failure mechanism. In 2014, gm created special coverage adjustment 14882 but many vehicles equipped with the same engine and pcv design were not added, including mine.

Pcv valve got clogged and failed, I have an extended warranty and the extended warranty excludes this from any repairs if this is involved. Caused my rear main seal to break and leak oil. Not drivable currently. Quoted 3200 on a repair. Purchased the vehicle less than 12 months ago.

The contact owns a 2025 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, a yellow check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed, and contact was provided dtc: p04fb (crankcase ventilation systems pressure sensor issue). The contact was informed that the manufacturer's engineers were working on an improved solution. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer cleared the code. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 5,000.

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving above 50 mph, the vehicle was shaking and vibrating abnormally and failed to properly accelerate. The contact stated that the message "turn off engine" was displayed. The contact stated that the engine had experienced excessive oil consumption. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed and it was determined that the pcv was faulty. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was unknown.

Two weeks of zero degree weather caused the rear main seal to fail causing a large oil leak that could have resulted in the engine locking up if I had not noticed oil running down the driveway. Repair shop advised this was a common problem with the 2. 4 liter engine caused by a failure of the pcv system and there is a service bulletin on this problem. Gm has not recalled these engines to correct the known problem.

See all problems of the 2014 Chevrolet Equinox 🔎.

My 2017 chevy Equinox, equipped with the 2. 4l ecotec engine, experienced a catastrophic failure due to a faulty pcv system. In cold weather, condensation caused the pcv valve to malfunction, leading to excessive pressure and ultimately blowing out the rear main seal. This issue has been well-documented in the 2010–2013 models, which were covered under a class-action lawsuit, but the same defect persists in later models, including mine, which are not covered. This design flaw creates a significant safety and financial burden for owners and needs further investigation. My car shut off several times while driving in heavy traffic. I was in the car with my 6 year old child taking him to school on a busy street. This could have been catastrophic. In addition, I was informed my engine is burning oil excessively which is also a known issue. The safety risk posed by the defect, readily know by service techs, is substantial, the lawsuits claim, given that an engine operating without sufficient oil could wear down and fail prematurely, even during the course of normal operation, due to friction. According to the lawsuits, general motors, for its part, actively concealed from consumers that its Equinox and terrain vehicles suffered from an oil consumption defect. Worse, the suits say, gm allegedly failed to offer vehicle owners and lessees any help by way of repairs or recalls. Oil leak caused by insufficient ventilation and excessive oil burning caused rear main seal and timing chain belts to fail. My oil warning systems never detected the low oil. Research has shown that this has been a known chevy problem since 2017, with a recall being issued earlier on but no known recall now. Dealer has confirmed issues and also that the engine design is flawed and leads to oil burning excessively.

2/4/19 bulletin issued for pcv valve defect [xxx] bought car from dealer, was told nothing wrong with car [xxx] sold me a extended warranty to assure me the car would be protected [xxx] car wouldn’t start in driveway had it towed to tarr Chevrolet. [xxx] warranty refused to fix car, seems they excluded the pcv valve from warranty. The pcv valve blew the rear seal, part of the power train which I have a lifetime warranty on. But since the pcv valve caused it , they didn’t cover that either. This repair cost me $2800. 00. Living on social security that’s a lot of money. I have called chevy, the dealer and the warranty CO to no avail, I have read about all the class action suits. This is a very serious problem. The bulletin states below 0 temperatures can cause this, we live in tennessee, we don’t have that kind of weather. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

While my daughter was driving in very cold weather . . . She here a pop sound and all warning lites fir low oil came on. . . She stopped immediately. . The car was towed and a blocked frozen pcv vent caused the rear seal to blow. . . Gm is aware of this defect with no intention to reimburse for repairs.

My 2017 chevy Equinox, equipped with the 2. 4l ecotec engine, experienced a catastrophic failure due to a faulty pcv system. In cold weather, condensation caused the pcv valve to malfunction, leading to excessive pressure and ultimately blowing out the rear main seal. This issue has been well-documented in the 2010–2013 models, which were covered under a class-action lawsuit, but the same defect persists in later models, including mine, which are not covered. This design flaw creates a significant safety and financial burden for owners and needs further investigation.

When I was exiting the expressway, my car suddenly stopped without any warning. I managed to restart it, but after driving just a few feet, it stalled again. I was able to restart it once more, but this time I could hear a knocking noise coming from the engine. I initially thought it couldn't need oil since I had an oil change just the previous week. I drove to a nearby gas station to check the oil level, and although the oil gauge indicated 91%, I found there was no oil in the engine. I added two quarts to get a few blocks to my destination. However, I soon noticed oil leaking out. I decided to have my car towed to a chevy dealership, where I was informed that I had a blown rear main seal caused by a faulty pcv system. I was told that this situation was dangerous, especially since it occurred on the expressway. The repair cost over $3,000. I contacted gm to see if they could assist me with cost but was told only after I got the issue fixed they wouldsee what they could do. I've also noticed that many other 2017 chevy Equinox owners have reported similar problems online. Could you please look into this?.

On the morning of January 20th 2025, the undersized pvc port retained moisture that froze solid during cold temperatures causing pressure to build up resulting in rear seal and intake manifold gasket failure. There should be a recall that includes enlarging the pcv port and replacing the pcv piping that also retains moisture and freezes (this portion was corrected on this vehicle).

The contact owns a 2014 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving 45 mph in cold weather, the vehicle was shuddering. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the work garage, where the contact noticed that a significant amount of oil had leaked onto the ground. A mobile mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the main crankshaft seal had failed because the pcv system had frozen. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline for assistance in covering the repair under technical service bulletin: bulletin pip5093b. The failure mileage was approximately 86,000.

114k miles and the pcv valve was collecting condensation which froze. This caused a build up of pressure and blew the rear main oil seal and timing chain. No warning, no dash lights, nothing. Oil life at 35% and over 1,000 miles before due for next oil change. Went from running fine to dead in less than 1/4 of a mile.

The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving 71 mph, the engine lost power with the check engine and stabili-trak warning lights illuminated. The vehicle entered limp mode. The contact was able to coast the vehicle to a local gas station. The contact approached the gas station, and vehicle shut off. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where a diagnostic test was performed; however, the mechanic could not determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the pcv valve had frozen due to the cold weather. The contact was informed that the failure then pressurized the crank case valve and blew the engine oil seal. The contact was also informed that the timing chain had failed and caused the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline to file a complaint. The failure mileage was 68,000.

The pcv valve froze last week causing pressure to build up and blew the rear seal. All the oil leaked out and caused a grinding noise and the vehicle shutoff on its own. This I have seen is an ongoing problem with the chevy Equinox. I was quoted $3800 from the dealer to repair.

Rear crankshaft seal has failed. Engin oil has blown out at bottom of engine and all over underside of car. Oil has covered the exhaust system causing smoke in and outside of car. Leaked engine oil could have ignited and caused a fire that would have consumed the entire car. There appears to be numerous postings on the internet of other chevy Equinox owners with the same problem. There was no prior warning that the crankshaft oil seal was in the process of failure. I personally checked the oil pan drain plug and the oil filter cap, and these were not the issue of the oil leak. Again, from my investigation on the internet sites, it appears to be a common issue with the general motors 2. 4 liter vortec engine in the Chevrolet Equinox car model. This issue can and probably result in total engine failure and need of engine replacement. The repair to replace the rear crankshaft oil seal is very costly and should not be needed on any vehicle with normal wear and use. With my internet investigation there appears to be a design problem with the pcv design and system. The pcv system is prone to clogging and freeze up in cold weather. This can result in excessive internal engine pressure the is a major cause of blowout of the crack shaft oil seal. The temperature at the night before was only 9 degrees. The car was last used under freezing conditions which could have contributed to engine failure.

This was the third time I have had my vehicle in the shop for the same exact issue - stalling while driving. This time we decided to take it to a chevy dealer who very quickly diagnosed the pcv system freeze "causing the rear main seal to push out causing a major oil leak". Seeing as this issue is known in prior years, it is baffling why chevy has not addressed this design flaw, which causes engine damage, nor have they chosen to included later models - such as my 2016 - in a recall. I am so very lucky that I started being aware of the warning signs and did not get on the highway to go home. It would have likely been a deadly incident in that case - I am not joking. This was a very expensive repair - especially considering this is the 3rd repair regarding the same issue.

On December 26, 2022, while driving home from work during a snowstorm, my 2016 chevy Equinox suddenly lost power and began making unusual noises. Shortly after, a warning light indicated low oil pressure, and the engine shut off before I could safely pull over. Since then, the vehicle has been sitting in my driveway. Recently, I had it checked by a dealership, where the mechanics diagnosed a blown rear main seal and significant oil leakage. The dealership confirmed that the rear main seal failure was caused by a faulty pcv valve, a known issue in these models, which resulted in excessive pressure buildup and engine damage. Given the severity of the issue, the dealership mentioned that an engine replacement might be necessary. If it’s just the rear main seal that needs replacing, the estimated cost is $2,700. The vehicle was purchased used with 55,000 miles on it and had only one previous owner.