2012 Chevrolet Equinox Problems & Owner Complaints

Engine 354 3 crash 3 fire

“GM NOTIFIED US OF A KNOWN OIL CONSUMPTION PROBLEM WITH THE VEHICLE. OUR VEHICLE WAS CONSTANTLY LOSING OIL. WE COMPLETED THE OIL CONSUMPTION TESTS OVER A PERIOD OF TWO YEARS BEFORE THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT WOULD REPLACE THE PISTON AND RINGS, WHICH WERE REPLACED IN JUNE 2018. JULY 1ST 2019, AFTER 10,000 MILES, THE ENGINE EXPLODED AND CAUGHT FIRE WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE DOWN THE STREET. FORTUNATELY, NO ONE WAS SERIOUS HARMED. THE VEHICLE STOPPED IN THE MIDDLE OF A 6 LANE STREET IN MODERATE TRAFFIC. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED AND PUT THE FIRE OUT. THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE PUSHED OUT OF TRAFFIC…”
NHTSA complaint #11231269, 2019 · fire

“RECENTLY MY CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE WHILE MY HUSBAND AND I WERE DRIVING. WE OWN A 2012 EQUINOX 2.4L. WE DIDN'T KNOW UNTIL NOW THAT THIS ENGINE IS KNOWN FOR HAVING EXTREME ISSUES WITH A PCV VALVE AND BECAUSE OF THIS DESIGN FLAW THE VALVE GETS CLOGGED UP. IT MAKES YOUR ENGINE BUILD UP PRESSURE AND THEN A CRANKCASE SEAL BLOWS (IN OUR CASE IS WAS THE REAR). THIS IS SOMETHING KNOWN TO GM. THERE IS A SERVICE BULLETIN OUT FOR THIS BUT GM WON'T COVER IT. WE MEET ALL THE QUALIFICATIONS AND THEY STILL WON'T COVER IT. THERE ARE SO MANY PEOPLE OUT THERE ALL OVER THE INTERNET POSTING ABOUT THE SAME PROBLEM AND…”
NHTSA complaint #11063145, 2018 · fire

“WHILE DRIVING DOWN I-96 IN MICHIGAN AT MILE 62, I FELT AN EXPLOSION UNDER MY FEET. THERE WAS A LARGE CLOUD OF BLACK SMOKE FOLLOWED BY FLAMES UNDERNEATH AND OUT THE BACK OF THE VEHICLE. I PULLED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, RAN TO SAFETY WHILE WATCHING THE VEHICLE BURN UNDERNEATH. THE AIR DRAFT FROM PASSING TRAFFIC EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. QUALIFIED TECHNICIANS AT OUR LOCAL CHEVROLET DEALER HAVE TOLD US THERE IS A GOLF-BALL SIZE HOLE AND A SOFTBALL SIZE HOLE IN THE ENGINE IN ADDITION TO NUMEROUS ISSUES RESULTING FROM THE FIRE (MELTED FUEL AND BRAKE LINES, CHARRED AND BUBBLED PAINT AND MELTED PLAST…”
NHTSA complaint #10713502, 2015 · fire

Visibility/Wiper 121 2 injury

“ON DEC. 14,2019 WHILE DRIVING ON A BUSY PARKWAY IN NEW JERSEY IN THE POURING RAIN, MY WIPERS STOPPED OPERATING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE WINDOW. THIS CAUSED A LOSS OF VISIBILITY, MADE ME VIOLENTLY SWERVE OFF OF THE ROAD AND INJURE MY RIGHT KNEE. I AM SUFFERING A KNEE CONTUSION AND POSSIBLE LIGAMENT DAMAGE DUE TO THE SUDDEN IMPACT. I REPORTED THIS COMPLAINT ON DEC. 16, 2019 AND AFTER REVIEWING IT ONLINE, IT IS EVIDENT THAT THE REPRESENTATIVE LISTED THAT THERE WASN'T AN INJURY REPORTED; WHICH IS FALSE INFORMATION. I MADE IT VERY CLEAR THAT I INJURED MY KNEE FROM THE DIRECT MALFUNCTION OF THE WIPERS.…”
NHTSA complaint #11290738, 2019 · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. WHILE DRIVING IN HEAVY RAIN, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS STOPPED FUNCTIONING AND THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO SEE THE ROAD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE INJURED HER KNEE WHEN THE WINDSHIELD WIPER ABRUPTLY STOPPED FUNCTIONING. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS SOUGHT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 9-570-384-6752. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 184,319.”
NHTSA complaint #11289225, 2019 · 1 injury(ies)

“Wipers do not work Seems to not recognize when idling and starts to shake if stopped at a red light. Randomly will go through 2 quarts of oil in one day”
NHTSA complaint #11735335, 2026

Power Train 84 1 crash 1 fire 1 injury

“THIS MAY BE RELATED TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER 16V502000. ON JULY 11, 2016, I WAS IN MY SON'S DRIVEWAY, PLACED MY CAR IN PARK, AND MY GRANDDAUGHTER AND I GOT OUT OF THE CAR. THE CAR WAS STILL, AND MY KEYS WERE STILL IN THE IGNITION. WHILE I WAS BETWEEN THE DOOR AND THE CAR, THE CAR STARTED TO ROLL BACKWARDS, WHICH KNOCKED ME TO MY FEET AND UNDER THE CAR. THE CAR ROLLED UP ONTO MY RIBCAGE AND MY VISION STARTED TO GO DARK. A NEARBY PERSON MANAGED TO ROLL THE CAR OFF OF ME. I WAS TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL WHERE I LEARNED I HAD FIVE BROKEN RIBS AND A SMALL PUNCTURE IN MY LUNG. MY LEG IS BRUIS…”
NHTSA complaint #10892376, 2016 · 1 injury(ies)

“WHILE DRIVING DOWN I-96 IN MICHIGAN AT MILE 62, I FELT AN EXPLOSION UNDER MY FEET. THERE WAS A LARGE CLOUD OF BLACK SMOKE FOLLOWED BY FLAMES UNDERNEATH AND OUT THE BACK OF THE VEHICLE. I PULLED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, RAN TO SAFETY WHILE WATCHING THE VEHICLE BURN UNDERNEATH. THE AIR DRAFT FROM PASSING TRAFFIC EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. QUALIFIED TECHNICIANS AT OUR LOCAL CHEVROLET DEALER HAVE TOLD US THERE IS A GOLF-BALL SIZE HOLE AND A SOFTBALL SIZE HOLE IN THE ENGINE IN ADDITION TO NUMEROUS ISSUES RESULTING FROM THE FIRE (MELTED FUEL AND BRAKE LINES, CHARRED AND BUBBLED PAINT AND MELTED PLAST…”
NHTSA complaint #10713502, 2015 · fire

“My 2012 chevy equinox lt had had nothing but issues with the timing chain the oil consumption where it hardly wants to start I have only had this used vehicle for 6 months or less I shouldn’t be having all these problems with it! The tailpipe isn’t smoking out white clouds but when you put your hand over it it leaves black oil gas smelling grunge on your hand! This is the second equinox I have owed in less than 1 year and it should not be costing me a fortune in repairs within a year even though it’s used makes no sense to me why chevy allows this to happen!!!”
NHTSA complaint #11522842, 2023 · crash

Electrical System 69 1 crash 1 fire 1 injury

“THIS MAY BE RELATED TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER 16V502000. ON JULY 11, 2016, I WAS IN MY SON'S DRIVEWAY, PLACED MY CAR IN PARK, AND MY GRANDDAUGHTER AND I GOT OUT OF THE CAR. THE CAR WAS STILL, AND MY KEYS WERE STILL IN THE IGNITION. WHILE I WAS BETWEEN THE DOOR AND THE CAR, THE CAR STARTED TO ROLL BACKWARDS, WHICH KNOCKED ME TO MY FEET AND UNDER THE CAR. THE CAR ROLLED UP ONTO MY RIBCAGE AND MY VISION STARTED TO GO DARK. A NEARBY PERSON MANAGED TO ROLL THE CAR OFF OF ME. I WAS TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL WHERE I LEARNED I HAD FIVE BROKEN RIBS AND A SMALL PUNCTURE IN MY LUNG. MY LEG IS BRUIS…”
NHTSA complaint #10892376, 2016 · 1 injury(ies)

“THE NIGHT SANDY HIT ON THE EAST COAST, IT WAS WINDY IN MICHIGAN. OUR CITY WAS DOING LEAF PICKUP AROUND THAT TIME SO LEAVES WERE ACCUMULATED AT THE EDGES OF THE ROADS. THE CAR WAS BEING DRIVEN THROUGH A SUBDIVISION ON A PAVED ROAD AND IT JUST CAUGHT ON FIRE. GM WILL TAKE NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE FIRE. THEY SAY LEAVES BLEW UP UNDER THE CAR AND THEY ARE WHAT CAUGHT ON FIRE. HOW CAN VULNERABLE AREAS NOT BE SHIELDED FROM THIS? THE CAR WAS ABOUT A MONTH OLD!!! THE FIRE BURNT FOR ABOUT 7 MINUTES. THE DEALERSHIP SAYS THAT THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO. A TEAM FROM GM INSPECTED THE CAR AND THE…”
NHTSA complaint #10486613, 2010 · fire

“THIS VEHICLE FREQUENTLY LOSES CHARGE ON BATTERY BATTERY AND ALTERNATOR ARE NEW. VEHICLE HAS LESS THAN 70K MILES ALSO THROWS UP COMPUTER CODES RADIO TURNS ON AND OFF WHEN IT WANTS TO. I PURCHASED IT USED WITH 40K MILES AND HAS BEEN A PROBLEM SINCE. I HAVE QUOTES FOR OVER 2K IN REPAIRS AND WAS TOLD AT TIME OF PURCHASE ALL RECALLS WERE CARED FOR. WAS PURCHASED CERTIFIED PREOWNED FROM A DEALERSHIP. EVERY TIME I FIX SOMETHING THERE'S ANOTHER PROBLEM.”
NHTSA complaint #11166602, 2017 · crash

Fuel/Propulsion System 54 1 fire

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AS THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 90,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10566264, 2014 · fire

“Wipers do not work Seems to not recognize when idling and starts to shake if stopped at a red light. Randomly will go through 2 quarts of oil in one day”
NHTSA complaint #11735335, 2026

“Recently got an oil change, and in a month I’ve had to “top-off” my oil. Constantly have to make sure I carry a few quarts of oil to make sure my oil is filled. One day, I forgot to check the oil and my car was stalling on a busy road. Had to pull over to make sure I put the oil in there. Everyone that I’ve asked said they have the same issue. I stopped asking people after the 10th person. My uncle is a mechanic and he said the same thing about the oil. He said he wasn’t sure where is goes but it just disappears.”
NHTSA complaint #11699902, 2025

Unknown Or Other 53 1 fire

“ON TUESDAY FEBRUARY 4, 2020 1:09PM MY 2012 EQUINOX VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE 10 MINUTES AFTER REACHING MY DESTINATION IN A PRIVATE DRIVEWAY. THE CAR WAS SHUT OFF, AND LOCKED WITH THE KEY BEFORE ENTERING THE RESIDENCE. SMOKE WAS SEEN COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD FOLLOWED IMMEDIATELY WITH FLAMES. MY CONCERNS: 1) I HAD MY PASTOR WITH ME AND THIS COULD HAVE OCCURRED WHILE TRAVELING; 2) MY NEXT DESTINATION WAS PARKING IN MY GARAGE AND I WOULD HAVE HAD A HOUSE FIRE. GOD WAS WATCHING OVER US.”
NHTSA complaint #11307722, 2020 · fire

“My Vehicle had an open Recall N192268180 TAILPIPE EMISSIONS - OXYGEN SENSOR. I made an appt for the recall for 1/20/2025 at Capital Chevrolet in Wake Forest, NC. The appt was cancelled and rescheduled for 2/10/2025 due to them needing to order parts for the recall. On 2/10/2025 my vehicle was dropped off and i was told it should be finished by end of day 2/10 or early morning 2/11/2025. On 2/11/2025 I called the dealership to see when my vehicle would be ready and was told the recalled part caused damage to my Catalytic Converter and they would need to replace it but this would be covered unde…”
NHTSA complaint #11644462, 2025

“My drivers side wiper blade stopped working while the passenger side is still working. I saw a recall for this linkage on the site but it’s not for my specific VIN. Additionally, my catalytic converter has damage due to excessive oil consumption. Halfway through my regular oil changes the oil is almost completely empty. Again, there’s a recall on this for my specific make, model and year but not for my VIN. I feel these should be covered to be fixed by manufacture due to symptoms equivalent to recall.”
NHTSA complaint #11624644, 2024

Steering 36 1 fire 1 injury

“WHEN OPENING THE STORAGE IN THE FRONT SEAT THE LIGHT BURNS SO HOT THAT IT BURNS THE RIGHT HIP/LEG OF THE DRIVER BADLY. STEERING MAKES A SUPER LOUD RUBBING SOUND WHEN TURNING WHEEL LEFT OR RIGHT THAT DEALERSHIP CANNOT SEEM TO FIX.”
NHTSA complaint #10818275, 2015 · 1 injury(ies)

“THE NIGHT SANDY HIT ON THE EAST COAST, IT WAS WINDY IN MICHIGAN. OUR CITY WAS DOING LEAF PICKUP AROUND THAT TIME SO LEAVES WERE ACCUMULATED AT THE EDGES OF THE ROADS. THE CAR WAS BEING DRIVEN THROUGH A SUBDIVISION ON A PAVED ROAD AND IT JUST CAUGHT ON FIRE. GM WILL TAKE NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE FIRE. THEY SAY LEAVES BLEW UP UNDER THE CAR AND THEY ARE WHAT CAUGHT ON FIRE. HOW CAN VULNERABLE AREAS NOT BE SHIELDED FROM THIS? THE CAR WAS ABOUT A MONTH OLD!!! THE FIRE BURNT FOR ABOUT 7 MINUTES. THE DEALERSHIP SAYS THAT THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO. A TEAM FROM GM INSPECTED THE CAR AND THE…”
NHTSA complaint #10486613, 2010 · fire

“ABS stabilizer light on dash shows ABS malfunction.took it to certified mechanic to check the problem and was told the system had to be replaced at the cost of $4000.”
NHTSA complaint #11703120, 2025

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 26 1 crash

“I OWNED TWO CHEVY EQUINOXES. THE STABILITRAK WENT ON BOTH VEHICLES WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE I DROVE TO WORK I LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE WHEN THE STABILITRAK WENT AND MY CAR WAS TOTALED.”
NHTSA complaint #10851819, 2016 · crash

“MY VEHICLES CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON THEN THE STABILITY LIGHT CAME ON THE VEHICLE SOUNDED LIKE IT WAS CHOKING. WHEN WE GOT IT TO THE REPAIR SHOP IT STALLED OUT AND WHEN THE SHOP DID SHOVE INVESTIGATION THERE WAS NO OIL IN THE VEHICLE. ALTHOUGH THERE WAS NO WARNING ABOUT OIL BEING LOW OR LIGHTS ON. AS WE WERE BRINGING VEHICLE TO SHOP IT SMELLED OF BURNING. VEHICLE STARTED MALFUNCTIONING WHEN STATIONARY AND BECAME WORSE WHEN IN MOTION.”
NHTSA complaint #11309696, 2020

“ABOUT 3 WEEKS AGO I WENT TO START MY EQUINOX WITH THE KEY AND WHEN I PUT IT IN THE IGNITION MY VEHICLE WOULD NOT START AT ALL. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED ON A CITY STREET. THEN THE BEGINNING OF DECEMBER I HAD GONE OVER A LITTLE BUMP AND MY DASH STARTED SHOWING UP WITH WARNING LIGHTS SAYING 'SERVICE STABILIZ' AND 'ALL-WHEEL DRIVE OFF'.”
NHTSA complaint #11298452, 2019

Structure 26 2 crash 2 injury

“ON MAY 27TH I WAS OPENING THE LIFT GATE TO UNLOAD ITEMS. THE CAR WAS OFF. I OPENED THE LIFT GATE USING THE BUTTON UNDER THE HANDLE.THE DOOR OPENED FULLY. I REACHED IN THE CAR TO REMOVE LUGGAGE. THE DOOR CLOSED QUICKLY ON MY BACK AND STOPPED JUST BEFORE PINNING ME IN THE DOOR WAY. THE DOOR IMMEDIATELY OPENED A SECOND TIME AND I MOVED QUICKLY OUT OF THE WAY. AS SOON AS IT OPENED FULLY,IT SLAMMED COMPLETELY SHUT. I AM STILL UNABLE TO USE THE LIFT GATE SAFELY.”
NHTSA complaint #10994526, 2017 · 2 injury(ies)

“WE WERE SITTING STILL AT TRAIN CROSSING WHEN WE WERE STRUCK FROM THE REAR AND WAS SHOVED FORWARD 8-10 FEET INTO THE CAR IN FRONT OF US. THE CAR IS A TOTAL LOSS. WITH ALL OF THE REAR AND FRONT DAMAGE, NONE OF THE AIRBAGS WERE DEPLOYED. ALSO, BOTH FRONT SEATS BROKE LOOSE FROM THE SEAT BRACKETS THAT HOLD THE SEATS TO THE FLOOR. MY WIFE (PASSENGER SEAT) NOT ONLY BROKE LOOSE BUT THE SEAT TWISTED. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10554862, 2013 · crash

“I WAS PULLING INTO A PARKING LOT AT AN ANGLE TO THE CURB WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AND ALL OF A SUDDEN THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED CAUSING IT TO JUMP THE CURB AND HIT A TREE NEAR THE CURB CAUSING CAUSING OVER $6000 WORTH OF DAMAGE. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10550676, 2013 · crash

Air Bags 18 9 crash 6 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HER HUSBAND WAS DRIVING ABOUT 25 MPH, HE SUFFERED A MEDICAL CONDITION AND LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, CRASHING INTO A THREE FEET HIGH CEMENT BOULDER. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. BOTH THE DRIVER AND THE FRONT PASSENGER SUSTAINED INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE DRIVER AND THE PASSENGER HAD THEIR SEAT BELTS LATCHED AT THE TIME OF THE CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED AND WAS TOWED TO A TOW YARD. THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAG…”
NHTSA complaint #11329614, 2020 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“"TAKATA RECALL" AIRBAG WAS EJECTED BUT IT WAS DEFLATED, OFFERING NO PROTECTION UPON IMPACT. VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION GOING STRAIGHT, GOING LESS THAN 30MPH SLOWING DOWN, WHEN VEHICLE IMPACTED ANOTHER CAR IN FRONT.”
NHTSA complaint #11048662, 2017 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A SEMI-TRUCK CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WITH FORCE. THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE THEN CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF THE PRECEDING VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED A CONCUSSION, UPPER AND LOWER BACK PAINS, NECK PAIN, AND ARM PAIN. THE CONTACT RECEIVED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE SPEED WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 62,271.”
NHTSA complaint #10731416, 2015 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Vehicle Speed Control 18

“Basically it has the recall for clogged cats and O2 sensors it has [XXX] my pistons I use quart oil every 100 miles I talked to customer service last night was told all ve fixed and I could have rental went to get it cause my car dies at every stop from not having right fuel mixture. Now they changed story . Lawsuit ? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)”
NHTSA complaint #11577750, 2024

“The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the instrument display indicated a reduced engine power warning message. The contact stated that while driving up a bridge, the vehicle slowed down and failed to accelerate properly while depressing the accelerator pedal. The failure was intermittent. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the accelerator pedal was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer but due to cost, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the…”
NHTSA complaint #11536891, 2023

“The oil consumption in the engine for general use is by far way more than average,you don't even get to the" time to change your oil" notice from the vehicle before most of your oil is gone from your motor.The oil light never comes on to inform you of the low oil in the motor but with the low oil engine sensors for cam position light the check engine light and after awhile the vehicle goes into what I would call limp mode with acceleration decreased which would be dangerous at highway speeds if it happened then”
NHTSA complaint #11440154, 2021

Service Brakes 13 1 crash 1 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED WITH THE DOOR OPEN, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ROLL BACKWARDS. THE VEHICLE KNOCKED THE CONTACT DOWN, DRAGGED HER DOWN THE DRIVEWAY, AND ROLLED OVER HER RIGHT LEG. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,500. UPDATED 8/19/15*CN UPDATED 10/18/2017*CN”
NHTSA complaint #10723063, 2015 · 1 injury(ies)

“AS I WAS SLOWING DOWN GETTING READY TO COME TO A STOP AT ABOUT 10/15 MPH, I PRESSED MY BRAKES AND THEY FELT HARD. I COULD NOT PRESS DOWN SO I CONTINUED TO TRY, WHEN THEY VIBRATED AND COULD NOT STOP, I CRASHED INTO THE PERSON AT THE RED LIGHT IN FRONT OF ME. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10593965, 2014 · crash

“The abs braking and stability control light came on and has stayed on and took to mechanic shop and was told to repair would be 4000 .that's more than what the car is worth!changed motor oil many times since I owned the car and it uses oil quite much.ihe oil gauge can say I have 70 percent oil and the dipstick reads no oil so I must put 2 -3 quarts of oil in car because I can hear lifters rattle due to lack of oil.the abs stability control keeps car steady especially in i snow or rain weather and can lose control of the 2012 Chevy equinox.if I was to drive vehicle on long trip the motor could…”
NHTSA complaint #11724278, 2026

Suspension 12 2 crash

“My 2012 chevy equinox lt had had nothing but issues with the timing chain the oil consumption where it hardly wants to start I have only had this used vehicle for 6 months or less I shouldn’t be having all these problems with it! The tailpipe isn’t smoking out white clouds but when you put your hand over it it leaves black oil gas smelling grunge on your hand! This is the second equinox I have owed in less than 1 year and it should not be costing me a fortune in repairs within a year even though it’s used makes no sense to me why chevy allows this to happen!!!”
NHTSA complaint #11522842, 2023 · crash

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE VEHICLE DROPPED TO THE GROUND. THE BRAKES AND STEERING WHEEL ALSO BECAME UNRESPONSIVE AS THE VEHICLE PROCEEDED TO CRASH INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE CAME TO A STOP WHEN THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A CURB. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE POLICE REPORTED TO THE SCENE AND CONFIRMED THAT THE AXLE WAS FRACTURED AND CAUSED THE FAILURE. IN ADDITION, THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE WHEEL HAD COLLAPSED UNDER THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WA…”
NHTSA complaint #10555821, 2013 · crash

“ABS stabilizer light on dash shows ABS malfunction.took it to certified mechanic to check the problem and was told the system had to be replaced at the cost of $4000.”
NHTSA complaint #11703120, 2025

Wheels 11

“The underbody of my 2012 Equinox is completely rusted and now not drivable. The KFrame is rotten and the car is not safe to drive. The engine consumes a great amount of oil. I've been told the engine needs to be replaced. I've only had the car for 2 years.”
NHTSA complaint #11612063, 2024

“WHEN DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD, THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS GO OFF, THE RADIO GOES OFF AND READS 'LOST COMMUNICATION WITH TELEMATICS CONTROL MODULE'. DURING THIS TIME, THE CAR IS STILL RUNNING IN MOTION, THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS COME BACK ON, BUT THE GAUGES ARE AT 0. THE RADIO TURNS OFF COMPLETELY, THE HEATING/AIR SHUTS OFF, THE SIGNAL LIGHTS DON'T WORK, AND MY HEADLIGHTS START TO FLICKER GOING ON AND OFF. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT. AFTER MINUTES, EVERYTHING COMES BACK ON, BUT LIKELY GOES OUT AGAIN. I'VE STARTED TO EXPERIENCE THIS IN EVERY TRIP TO AND FROM. ALSO, I RECENTLY HAD AN OIL CHA…”
NHTSA complaint #11319714, 2019

“TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR SYSTEM IS READING INCORRECTLY. IT'S SAYING MY TIRE PRESSURE IS 18 WHEN IT IS 48”
NHTSA complaint #11195339, 2019

Engine And Engine Cooling 7

“The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the engine revved up abnormally. While driving at various speeds, there was a humming sound coming from the underbody of the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who diagnosed that the catalytic converter had failed, the throttle body failed, and the exhaust manifold had fractured. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failures and confirmed there was no recall on the VIN. The failure mileage was 137…”
NHTSA complaint #11644737, 2025

“The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that upon slowing down, the vehicle rocked back and forth violently. The contact stated that the check engine and reduced engine power warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to exceed 23 MPH. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the vehicle was diagnosed and the contact was informed that there was excess crankshaft pressure, the crankshaft faces were faulty, and the pistons needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not…”
NHTSA complaint #11631420, 2024

“The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while having the vehicle serviced, the contact was informed that the vehicle was experiencing excessive oil consumption. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was diagnosed by an independent mechanic. The contact was informed that the vehicle had experienced excessive oil consumption. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 129,687. The contact stated the passenger airbag light stays on, even though there is no passenger present in the vehicle.”
NHTSA complaint #11550588, 2023

Visibility 7

“2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. CONSUMER STATED THAT THEIR WINDSHIELD WIPERS STOPPED WORKING SUDDENLY. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO BE REIMBURSED FOR THE REPAIR COST OF THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS.”
NHTSA complaint #11427153, 2021

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. WHILE DRIVING IN RAINY WEATHER, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S HOME. THE FOLLOWING DAY, THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO WILSONVILLE CHEVROLET (26051 SOUTH WEST BOONES FERRY ROAD, WILSONVILLE, OR 97070, (866) 279-5360) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE WINDSHIELD WIPER TRANSMISSION FAILED. THE WINDSHIELD WIPER TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 66,265. *TT CONSUMER STATED RECALLED IN CANADA BUT NOT THE US.*JB”
NHTSA complaint #11163500, 2018

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH IN A RAIN STORM, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS SUDDENLY MALFUNCTIONED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE WIPERS HAD DISCONNECTED FROM THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 65,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11113095, 2018

Exterior Lighting 6 1 crash 1 injury

“WHEN OPENING THE STORAGE IN THE FRONT SEAT THE LIGHT BURNS SO HOT THAT IT BURNS THE RIGHT HIP/LEG OF THE DRIVER BADLY. STEERING MAKES A SUPER LOUD RUBBING SOUND WHEN TURNING WHEEL LEFT OR RIGHT THAT DEALERSHIP CANNOT SEEM TO FIX.”
NHTSA complaint #10818275, 2015 · 1 injury(ies)

“THIS VEHICLE FREQUENTLY LOSES CHARGE ON BATTERY BATTERY AND ALTERNATOR ARE NEW. VEHICLE HAS LESS THAN 70K MILES ALSO THROWS UP COMPUTER CODES RADIO TURNS ON AND OFF WHEN IT WANTS TO. I PURCHASED IT USED WITH 40K MILES AND HAS BEEN A PROBLEM SINCE. I HAVE QUOTES FOR OVER 2K IN REPAIRS AND WAS TOLD AT TIME OF PURCHASE ALL RECALLS WERE CARED FOR. WAS PURCHASED CERTIFIED PREOWNED FROM A DEALERSHIP. EVERY TIME I FIX SOMETHING THERE'S ANOTHER PROBLEM.”
NHTSA complaint #11166602, 2017 · crash

“THE BLOCK PCV VALVE IS LEAKING AND HAS OVER POWERING BAD FUMES ARE COMING INSIDE OF MY CAR AND SMOKE DETECTION AND OIL SPOTS IN MY GARAGE.”
NHTSA complaint #11310643, 2020

Seats 5 1 crash

“WE WERE SITTING STILL AT TRAIN CROSSING WHEN WE WERE STRUCK FROM THE REAR AND WAS SHOVED FORWARD 8-10 FEET INTO THE CAR IN FRONT OF US. THE CAR IS A TOTAL LOSS. WITH ALL OF THE REAR AND FRONT DAMAGE, NONE OF THE AIRBAGS WERE DEPLOYED. ALSO, BOTH FRONT SEATS BROKE LOOSE FROM THE SEAT BRACKETS THAT HOLD THE SEATS TO THE FLOOR. MY WIFE (PASSENGER SEAT) NOT ONLY BROKE LOOSE BUT THE SEAT TWISTED. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10554862, 2013 · crash

“I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE BACK IN 2015. IT WAS A USED CAR AT THIS TIME. I DONT KNOW IF THE RECALLS WERE EVER DONE ON THIS VEHICLE AND I NEED THE RECALLS TO BE REPLACED.”
NHTSA complaint #11230294, 2019

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY AND WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE POWER OPERATED DRIVER'S SEAT MOVED BACK AND FORTH INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER OPERATED DRIVER'S SEAT PRESSED THE DRIVER AGAINST THE STEERING WHEEL AND MOVED BACKWARDS, WHICH MADE IT DIFFICULT FOR THE DRIVER TO ACCESS THE BRAKE AND ACCELERATOR PEDALS. ROD HATFIELD CHEVROLET (232 NEW CIRCLE ROAD, LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY 40505, (859) 274-4289) WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL ON THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE F…”
NHTSA complaint #11141920, 2018

Tires 4

“The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, she became aware that the vehicle was handling poorly, after which the tire pressure system service light illuminated. Upon parking the vehicle, the contact smelled a burning odor around the exterior of the vehicle. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V511000 (Tires), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure…”
NHTSA complaint #11594167, 2024

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE, THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM ERRONEOUSLY INDICATED THAT THE AIR PRESSURE IN THE REAR PASSENGER TIRE WAS LOW. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE TIRE AND DETERMINED THAT THE AIR PRESSURE WAS NORMAL. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER 11V511000 (WHEELS). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE SAME FAILURE LISTED IN THE RECALL. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS…”
NHTSA complaint #10734453, 2015

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM FAILED AS THE CONTACT ROTATED THE TIRES. THE SYSTEM FAILED TO NOTIFY OF ANY PRESSURE ISSUES WITH THE TIRES. THE DEALER ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE TIRES NEEDED TO BE ROTATED AGAIN TO CORRECT THE TIRE MONITORING FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 7,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 28,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10523934, 2013

Seat Belts 3

“The seatbelt tensioner I believe is what is called is broke. I am not sure how it happened but when it was noticed I took it to dealership in the town we were in and he looked up the part for me and explained there was 10 yr kansas seat belt warranty on it. Well come to find out my warranty expired Feb. And no dealership or even GM will help replace it. So if I'm in an accident it will most likely fail. I am a single mom with a special needs child that has to be taken to a specialist 3 hrs away. It is currently being held together by electrical tape but it looks like the wires in the thing fa…”
NHTSA complaint #11468729, 2022

“DRIVE SIDE SEAT BELT IS NOT LATCHING IN PLACE, I AM NOT SECURE OR SAFE. SEAT BELT WILL NOT SAFELY LOCK IN PLACE. THIS HAPPENS STATIONARY OR IN MOTION. PAPERWORK HAS BEEN SENT TWICE ON THE THE REPLACEMENT OF MY ENGINE. SECOND TIME WAS PAPERWORK WAS SENT REGISTERED MAIL WHICH DID SO REC'D IN EARLY AUG BUT I HAVE STILL NOT REC'D A SIGNATURE OF RECIPIENT.WHICH WAS REQUIRED.”
NHTSA complaint #11353537, 2020

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE PASSENGER REAR SEAT BELT CONTINUOUSLY TIGHTENED AND CONSTRICTED THE PASSENGER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE SEAT BELT WAS REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 19,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10543306, 2013

Back Over Prevention 2

“The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while she was at the stop light, the vehicle temporarily stalled. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact was able to continue to drive the vehicle. The contact also stated that the ignition switch of the vehicle would not turn all the way to the locking position and would fail to release the key after several attempts. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact also stated that the rearview camera inadvertently turned black while reversing. The dealer was not notified of the failures. The manufacturer…”
NHTSA complaint #11441602, 2021

“I HAVE NOTICED MY CAR DOES NOT SIGNAL TO ME WHEN I'M GETTING TO CLOSE TO SOMETHING IN MY BACKUP CAMERA. IN OTHER WORDS I BACKED INTO SOMEONE'S GARBAGE BIN WHILE REVERSING. I WAS GOING VERY SLOW. THIS IS A PROBLEM FOR ME AS I DON'T FEEL THE CAMERA IS VERY ACCURATE. I WAS WATCHING THE CAMERA AND LISTENING FOR A BEEP WITH NO MUSIC OR AIR GOING BECAUSE I HAD NOTICED I HADN'T HEARD THE THING BEEP BEFORE. I WAS ONLY IN THE DRIVEWAY BUT THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED AN ISSUE IF I WAS PARALLEL PARKING ON A SIDE STREET IN TOWN.”
NHTSA complaint #11391165, 2021

Equipment 2

“2012 CHVEROLET EQUINOX. CONSUMER STATES PROBLEM WITH TOWING THE VEHICLE *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED ACCORDING TO THE MANUAL, THAT IN ORDER TO TOW THE VEHICLE ON ALL FOUR WHEELS, THE NUMBER 32 FUSE MUST BE REMOVED. HOWEVER, WHEN IT WAS REMOVED, THE 12 VOLT RECEPTACLE WAS DISCONNECTED WHICH RENDERED THE BRAKE BUDDY NON-FUNCTIONAL.*JB UPDATED 11/27/12 UPDATED 02/11/13.”
NHTSA complaint #10484341, 2012

“CHEVY HAS KNOWN FOR ALMOST 2 YEARS THAT ANDROID AND BLACKBERRY PHONES DO NOT WORK WITH MANY NEW CHEVYS. THEY HAVE A SOFTWARE GLITCH THAT THEY CAN NOT REPAIR. THIS MEANS THAT OWNERS ARE NOT ABLE TO SAFELY USE THEIR PHONES WHILE IN THEIR CARS. I BELIEVE THAT THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL TO FIX THIS PROBLEM. I PERSONALLY PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE WITH THE KNOWLEDGE THAT I HAD A BLUETOOTH IN IT. I MAKE AND RECEIVE A LOT OF CALLS WHILE IN MY CAR AND I CAN NOT DO THIS SAFELY WITH THE EQUINOX. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10450747, 2012

Equipment Adaptive/Mobility 2

“IN JULY OF THIS YEAR, IT WAS A 100 DEGREE DAY IN CHARLESTON, AND MY WIFE HAD OUR 2 YEARS OLD DAUGHTER IN HER CAR SEAT. MY WIFE HAD THE AIRCONDITIONING ON, AND THE CAR RUNNING, AND SHE CHECKED THE MAIL, FOR SOME REASON, THE LOCKS ON THE DOORS ENGAGED, AND MY DAUGHTER WAS LOCKED IN THE CAR. I IMMEDIATELY CALLED THE DEALER, AND I BROUGHT THE CAR IN FOR SERVICE. THEY HAD MY VEHICLE FOR OVER A WEEK. THEY RETURNED THE VEHICLE TO ME AND INFORMED ME THAT THEY HAD REDONE ALL THE WIRING AND THAT IT SHOULD ALL BE FIXED, AND IT WOULDN'T HAPPEN AGAIN. THEN AS FATE WOULD HAVE IT, OUR REAR VIEW CAMERA S…”
NHTSA complaint #10658803, 2014

“I FILED A DIFFERENT REPORT EARLIER FOR THE SAME VEHICLE. NOW THE VEHICLE IS STARTING ON ITS OWN, IF THE KEY IS LEFT IN THE IGNITION WHEN YOU TURN IT OFF, ABOUT 30 SECONDS TO 1 MINUTE LATER THE CAR WILL START WITH NO ONE BEHIND THE WHEEL. IT WILL CONTINUE TO TRY TO START UNTIL YOU PULL THE KEY OUT. IT IS JUST THE KEY IN THE IGNITION, NO KEY CHAIN HANGING FROM IT. LAST WEEK APR 29,2014 THE CAR STARTED AND RAN FOR 10 SECOND WITH THE IGNITION OFF. HOW LONG BEFORE THE VEHICLE JUMPS INTO GEAR AND RUNS SOMEONE OVER WITH NO ONE BEHIND THE WHEEL? I FOUND OUT THAT THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT INVESTIGATE ANY R…”
NHTSA complaint #10587538, 2014

Forward Collision Avoidance 2

“Sterring wheel harden and wheels to moving”
NHTSA complaint #11433560, 2021

“I WAS DRIVING ON A BUSY RURAL ROUTE WHEN I CAME TO A STOP , WENT TO TAKE OFF THE CAR HAD NO POWER. I HAVE ONLY HAD THIS VEHICLE 1 MONTH, AND THE CODE SAYS IT IT THE TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE . LUCKILY WE WERE NOT HIT AFTER ABOUT 30 SECONDS IT KICKS IN AND HAS POWER , NOT VERY SAFE AT ALL .”
NHTSA complaint #11405491, 2021

Child Seat 1

“THE CROTCH BUCKLE ON MY CHILD'S CAR SEAT GETS STUCK AT TIMES WHICH MAKES IT NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO GET MY SON OUT. IT'S HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES AND THERE DOESN'T SEEM TO BE ANY REASON TO WHY OR WHEN IT HAPPENS. IN ORDER TO GET THE BUCKLE TO RELEASE I HAVE TO USE SO MUCH FORCE THAT IT HURTS ME AND I FEAR THAT EVENTUALLY I WILL NOT BE ABLE TO UNLATCH IT AND I WILL HAVE TO CUT MY SON OUT. I ALSO WORRY THAT THIS WILL HAPPEN DURING AN EMERGENCY. I HAVE NOTIFIED THE MANUFACTURER BUT HAVE NOT RECEIVED A REPLY. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10499718, 2013

Lane Departure 1

“I HAVE NOTICED MY CAR DOES NOT SIGNAL TO ME WHEN I'M GETTING TO CLOSE TO SOMETHING IN MY BACKUP CAMERA. IN OTHER WORDS I BACKED INTO SOMEONE'S GARBAGE BIN WHILE REVERSING. I WAS GOING VERY SLOW. THIS IS A PROBLEM FOR ME AS I DON'T FEEL THE CAMERA IS VERY ACCURATE. I WAS WATCHING THE CAMERA AND LISTENING FOR A BEEP WITH NO MUSIC OR AIR GOING BECAUSE I HAD NOTICED I HADN'T HEARD THE THING BEEP BEFORE. I WAS ONLY IN THE DRIVEWAY BUT THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED AN ISSUE IF I WAS PARALLEL PARKING ON A SIDE STREET IN TOWN.”
NHTSA complaint #11391165, 2021

Latches/Locks/Linkages 1

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. THE CONTACT BECAME LOCKED IN THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS INDICATING A FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS EVENTUALLY ABLE TO EXIT THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED OR DIAGNOSED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 68,303.”
NHTSA complaint #10616038, 2014

Parking Brake 1 1 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED WITH THE DOOR OPEN, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ROLL BACKWARDS. THE VEHICLE KNOCKED THE CONTACT DOWN, DRAGGED HER DOWN THE DRIVEWAY, AND ROLLED OVER HER RIGHT LEG. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,500. UPDATED 8/19/15*CN UPDATED 10/18/2017*CN”
NHTSA complaint #10723063, 2015 · 1 injury(ies)