2020 Chevrolet Equinox Problems & Owner Complaints

Service Brakes 106 8 crash 2 fire 5 injury

“I PURCHASED THE 2020 EQUINOX SUV. IMMEDIATELY LEAVING THE DEALERSHIP AFTER A HEAVY RAIN THE SUV WASN'T ABLE TO STOP WHEN I APPLIED THE BREAKS & APPROACHED A STOP SIGN ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY AND I WAS STRUCK ON THE DRIVER SIDE OF THE CAR. I WOKE UP IN A TRAUMA CENTER IN SPRINGFIELD MO. THE VEHICLE HAD 84 MILES ON IT. $17,500 IN DAMAGE NOT INCLUDING SERIOUS INJURIES NOT JUST TO MYSELF BUT THE CAR THAT STRUCK ME. I WAS ALSO SITED A TICKET FROM THE MISSOURI HIGHWAY PATROL FOR FAILURE TO STOP AT A STOP SIGN, THOUGH I APPLIED THE BREAKS WITH ENOUGH FORCE TO STOP THE VEHICLE. I STILL HAVE PROBLEMS WITH T…”
NHTSA complaint #11376913, 2019 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“Back in early October 2020, vehicle had about 2000 miles on it. I noticed that when I started up the vehicle The Brake Assist Service message came on the brakes were spongy and had vibrating feel. I drove about a half of a mile and the problem stopped. The engine light came on and stayed on but then went out. Everything was ok for about two weeks when it did it again light came on took it a dealer but light went off. They serviced the vehicle and seem that the problem had stopped. Then in Early April of 2021 it happened again. Took it to the same dealership, they replace some more parts. W…”
NHTSA complaint #11424523, 2021 · crash · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“While driving on the freeway at 75 mph my vacuum pump seized and shattered, causing me to loose all breaking power, damaging my engine beyond repair and endangering my life and numerous other drivers on the road. There is a current recall on the particular year, make and model for this issue but my VIN is not included so the dealership refuses to fix the issue.”
NHTSA complaint #11676711, 2025 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Engine 84 3 crash 3 fire 1 injury

“While driving on the freeway at 75 mph my vacuum pump seized and shattered, causing me to loose all breaking power, damaging my engine beyond repair and endangering my life and numerous other drivers on the road. There is a current recall on the particular year, make and model for this issue but my VIN is not included so the dealership refuses to fix the issue.”
NHTSA complaint #11676711, 2025 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“I am reporting a vehicle fire involving a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox [XXX] ). The fire originated in the engine compartment. The official fire report lists the causes as "undetermined", with the area of origin identified under the hood. There were no prior warning lights, mechanical issues, or indications that a fire risk was present. The vehicle was being used under normal conditions and was properly maintained to my knowledge. The vehicle was declared a total loss by my insurance company. Due to the undetermined cause and engine compartment origin, I am concerned there may have been a potentia…”
NHTSA complaint #11734135, 2026 · fire

“The contact owned a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving at 70 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the instrument panel lights became dim/flicker, and the vehicle lost automotive power. The contact mentioned she pulled over to the right side and left the vehicle at the scene. In addition, the contact drove back to the scene where the vehicle was parked, and she noticed the state trooper and a tow company. No injuries were sustained. No medical attention. The contact mentioned the fire happened overnight. The vehicle extinguished independently. A fire…”
NHTSA complaint #11672344, 2025 · fire

Fuel/Propulsion System 50 1 crash 1 fire

“I am reporting a vehicle fire involving a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox [XXX] ). The fire originated in the engine compartment. The official fire report lists the causes as "undetermined", with the area of origin identified under the hood. There were no prior warning lights, mechanical issues, or indications that a fire risk was present. The vehicle was being used under normal conditions and was properly maintained to my knowledge. The vehicle was declared a total loss by my insurance company. Due to the undetermined cause and engine compartment origin, I am concerned there may have been a potentia…”
NHTSA complaint #11734135, 2026 · fire

“PULLING OUT OF CARWASH.TURNING LEFT IN CARWASH LOT. CAR ENGINE REVED UP, CAR LUNGED FORWARD AT HIGH SPEED. SLAMMED ON BRAKE BUT BRAKE PEDAL WENT RIGHT TO THE FLOOR. CAR THEN SIDE SWIPED CARWASH VACUUM SYSTEM ON PASSENGER SIDE SCRAPING AND DENTING BOTH PASSENGER SIDE DOORS. THREW CAR INTO PARK AND SHUT OFF ENGINE TO STOP WAITED 5 MINUTES. TURNED CAR BACK ON PUT CAR IN DRIVE. SLOWLY MOVED AND PUT BRAKE ON. BRAKES WORKED. DROVE 5 MILES TO GET HOME. NOW AFRAID TO DRIVE CAR.”
NHTSA complaint #11362740, 2020 · crash

“My car is a 2020 Chevy Equinox with only 31852 miles. While driving today, all of a sudden the car started shuddering badly and stalled in the middle of the highway. Talk about a very scary situation. I pushed the car to the side of the road, and had it towed to a local shop. They found that the Fuel Pump Control Module had failed (P129F code). Upon doing some research, I found out that the 2021 Equinox had recalls issued for this same exact issue. I also found that the 2020 and 2021 Equinox both used the same part number Fuel Pump Control Module (13565638). Because of this, the recall sho…”
NHTSA complaint #11747853, 2026

Unknown Or Other 42 1 crash 2 fire 1 injury

“TURNING RIGHT AFTER A YIELD AND TOOK A LOOP (HIGHWAY) MY VEHICLE CRASHED ANOTHER VEHICLE FROM BEHIND, BUT MY VEHICLE SUPPOSED TO HAVE AN AUTO WARNING OR ALERT SIGN THAT I SHOULD HAVE NOTICED, A BEEP THAT SUPPOSED TO ALERT ME THAT THE OTHER VEHICLE WAS SO CLOSE EVEN THE SWITCH WAS AT THE ON MODE”
NHTSA complaint #11365671, 2020 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“The vehicle was taken to College Chevrolet for body work. . When the vehicle was at the body shop, the shop informed me that a turbo light was on but I am unsure when it appeared because it wasn't on when I took it to the dealer. The brake assist light was on; I noticed this about May 20, 2026. I parked the vehicle. The vehicle was driven to the body shop on June 1. The body work was completed on June 9 and the vehicle was at my residence. My Ex-husband and son were coming to pick me up at the car rental. The car caught on fire. My son & Ex-husband could have died in that car. The vehicle is…”
NHTSA complaint #11743540, 2026 · fire

“Vehicle caught fire while parked and turned off.”
NHTSA complaint #11455064, 2022 · fire

Electrical System 39 1 crash

“Engine power reduced keeps appearing Check engine light still on after oil change Oil is always empty after an oil change Leaking oil gasket”
NHTSA complaint #11489524, 2022 · crash

“My cooling and heating sensor is reading negative 40 degrees outside but it has been 80 degrees and higher the past several weeks. This is not safe when you have children especially if they are under [XXX] old. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)”
NHTSA complaint #11749888, 2026

“My car is a 2020 Chevy Equinox with only 31852 miles. While driving today, all of a sudden the car started shuddering badly and stalled in the middle of the highway. Talk about a very scary situation. I pushed the car to the side of the road, and had it towed to a local shop. They found that the Fuel Pump Control Module had failed (P129F code). Upon doing some research, I found out that the 2021 Equinox had recalls issued for this same exact issue. I also found that the 2020 and 2021 Equinox both used the same part number Fuel Pump Control Module (13565638). Because of this, the recall sho…”
NHTSA complaint #11747853, 2026

Power Train 38 3 crash

“Forward collision system dint notify of an object infront , also breaks locked up when used .Air bags didn’t go off while a forward collision with a bus happened”
NHTSA complaint #11703653, 2025 · crash

“Engine power reduced keeps appearing Check engine light still on after oil change Oil is always empty after an oil change Leaking oil gasket”
NHTSA complaint #11489524, 2022 · crash

“The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that after parking, turning the engine off, and exiting the vehicle it was later discovered that the vehicle had erroneously rolled backward and crashed into a second vehicle that was parked. No injuries were reported and a police report was taken at the scene. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 3,800.”
NHTSA complaint #11424422, 2021 · crash

Forward Collision Avoidance 14 4 crash 2 fire 2 injury

“Back in early October 2020, vehicle had about 2000 miles on it. I noticed that when I started up the vehicle The Brake Assist Service message came on the brakes were spongy and had vibrating feel. I drove about a half of a mile and the problem stopped. The engine light came on and stayed on but then went out. Everything was ok for about two weeks when it did it again light came on took it a dealer but light went off. They serviced the vehicle and seem that the problem had stopped. Then in Early April of 2021 it happened again. Took it to the same dealership, they replace some more parts. W…”
NHTSA complaint #11424523, 2021 · crash · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN RATE OF SPEED, HE PASSED OUT DUE TO A MEDICAL EMERGENCY AND HIT THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF HIM. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED UPON IMPACT. THE CONTACT WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL HOSPITAL VIA AN AMBULANCE AND WAS TREATED FOR UNKNOWN INJURIES. THE INJURIES OF THE OTHER DRIVER WERE UNKNOWN. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS EQUIPPED WITH A FORWARD COLLISION ALERT SYSTEM WHICH SHOULD HAVE STOPPED THE VEHICLE PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT. THE VEHICLE WAS INITIALLY TOWED TO A TOW YARD AND WAS…”
NHTSA complaint #11319358, 2020 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“Got hit at 40 miles an hour in a parking lot while a running dog came through and it was caotic”
NHTSA complaint #11544909, 2023 · crash · fire

Steering 13 2 crash

“While driving 25 mph in town on a straight road my 2020 Equinox 4D 1LT steering pulled to the right with out any reason and I hit a parked vehicle. I was not distracted, did not hit a pot hole, tire pressure and tread were all good. This road is near my house and have traveled on it many times. The car just turned to the right and hit the parked vehicle before I could react to the steering problem. This is a very unsafe condition. I feel it had to do with the electric steering. I just purchased this car from a reputable Chevy dealer. I’m a careful driver and have never had an accident b…”
NHTSA complaint #11531167, 2023 · crash

“2020 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. CONSTITUENT STATED THAT THEY EXPERIENCED A LOSS OF POWER STEERING WHILE DRIVING, THE CONSUMER STATED WHILE DRIVING THE POWER STEERING DIED. THE DRIVER HAD DIFFICULTY MAINTAINING THE VEHICLE AND SWIPED A GUARDRAIL. THE VEHICLE DID NOT INDICATE AN ISSUE UNTIL AFTER THE FAILURE OCURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED, BUT DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THE COLLISION CAUSED THE POWER STEERING TO FAIL, BUT REFUSED TO SEND THE CONSUMER THE REPORT.”
NHTSA complaint #11464945, 2022 · crash

“I bought the 2020 equinox May the 9th 2026 the dealership concealed a lot of things going on this vehicle and I complain to them two days after purchase he told me I was stuck with it in the meanwhile as I drive the vehicle I have had repairs done but it's something going on with the acceleration it accelerates on its own sometimes and slow to pick up speed. The steering seems to get away from me at times that makes me feel like I'm going to lose control when driving. I have almost had a couple of accidents since then so what really worries me is the steering problems which I just had a little…”
NHTSA complaint #11750722, 2026

Vehicle Speed Control 12 1 crash

“I WAS PULLING UP TO A FAMILY MEMBER'S CAR PORT, BEHIND THEIR CAR. THE CAR PORT HAS A GRASS PORTION LEADING UP TO THE GRAVEL SECTION WHERE THEY PARK THEIR CAR. I PULLED IN SLOWLY WHEN MY 2020 EQUINOX SUDDENLY ACCELERATED! I WAS ON THE BRAKE, BUT THE VEHICLE KEPT ACCELERATING CAUSING IT TO RUN INTO THE BACK OF THE FAMILY MEMBER'S CAR. MY VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE SHOVING THE CAR FORWARD SANDWICHING IT BETWEEN MY VEHICLE AND THEIR HOME.I WAS ABLE TO PUT IT IN NEUTRAL AS THE ENGINE CONTINUED REVVING UP THE RPMS. I PUT THE VEHICLE IN REVERSE WITH BOTH FEET ON THE BRAKE. THE CAR LURCHED BACKWA…”
NHTSA complaint #11328227, 2020 · crash

“I keep loosing power and get the message "Engine Power Reduced" and the car stops while driving down the road, sometimes it just stutters and won't maintain speed without the warning. I've had 2 shops check it out and can't find anything wrong. This vehicle has had all required maintenance done by the dealer since it was new.”
NHTSA complaint #11717644, 2026

“I would like to formally file a safety complaint regarding my Chevrolet vehicle and to express concern over Chevrolet’s handling of a known defect. On January 22, while driving to work in cold weather conditions, my vehicle experienced a sudden and dangerous malfunction. The engine unexpectedly revved to approximately 4,500 RPM, the check engine light illuminated, and the dashboard displayed an “Engine Power Reduced” message. Despite removing my foot from the accelerator, the vehicle did not slow down as expected. I was able to pull over to the side of the road and bring the vehicle to a stop.…”
NHTSA complaint #11714534, 2026

Suspension 10

“Engine reduced power, over acceleration as well as sluggish acceleration, wobbling on the freeway, electrical dashboard problems, tire sensor light comes on after getting it repaired. This vehicle has the same problems like 2021 -2024, reduced speed and couldn't go over 40 mph on a busy street with speed limited being 50 mph.”
NHTSA complaint #11660639, 2025

“The car shakes between 30-40 MPH, with or without acceleration. I’ve done a lot of research on this issue many people are having the same issue and can’t find a solution.”
NHTSA complaint #11595193, 2024

“EXPERIENCED SEVERE SHAKING IN STEERING AND SUSPENSION WHILE ACCELERATING, USUALLY STARTING AT THE 2-3 SHIFT. AT 12,836 MILES LEFT AND RIGHT FRONT HALF SHAFTS FAILED DUE TO 'EXCESSIVE LATERAL RUNOUT' . BULLETIN 20-NA-227 APPLIED(AS PER DEALER) AND BOTH REPLACED. NOW AT 21,500 MILES, THE SAME ISSUES ARE OCCURRING AGAIN. WHEN IT HAPPENS, THE VEHICLE BECOMES DIFFICULT TO STEER AND I'M CONCERNED SHOULD A TOTAL FAILURE OCCUR WHILE I'M DRIVING. INITIAL PROBLEM STARTED AROUND 4000 MILES BUT ONLY OCCURRED VERY SPORADICALLY.”
NHTSA complaint #11442295, 2021

Engine And Engine Cooling 9

“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.”
NHTSA complaint #11726417, 2026

“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 repl…”
NHTSA complaint #11714896, 2026

“The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the message "Engine Power Reduced" was suddenly displayed. While attempting to stop, the brake pedal was extremely difficult to depress, and the braking distance was extended. The vehicle was later towed to the local dealer, who diagnosed that the brake vacuum pump had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The contact was also informed that metal shavings from the vacuum pump might have entered the engine and that an engine diagnostic test was needed. No further…”
NHTSA complaint #11709875, 2025

Air Bags 7 6 crash 7 injury

“While having the right of way driving thru an intersection, going approximately 40 mph, another vehicle disregarded a stop sign and t-boned my vehicle on the drivers side. My vehicle was pushed off the road and came to rest in a ditch. Impact was directly on the drivers side door which sustained severe damage. My vehicle also sustained damage to front corner panel along with damage to the rear driver side door. Driver side-impact curtain airbag did not deploy on my vehicle. My vehicle was declared a total loss by insurance company. The at faults front end sustained severe damage and driver and…”
NHTSA complaint #11433523, 2021 · crash · 3 injury(ies)

“I PURCHASED THE 2020 EQUINOX SUV. IMMEDIATELY LEAVING THE DEALERSHIP AFTER A HEAVY RAIN THE SUV WASN'T ABLE TO STOP WHEN I APPLIED THE BREAKS & APPROACHED A STOP SIGN ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY AND I WAS STRUCK ON THE DRIVER SIDE OF THE CAR. I WOKE UP IN A TRAUMA CENTER IN SPRINGFIELD MO. THE VEHICLE HAD 84 MILES ON IT. $17,500 IN DAMAGE NOT INCLUDING SERIOUS INJURIES NOT JUST TO MYSELF BUT THE CAR THAT STRUCK ME. I WAS ALSO SITED A TICKET FROM THE MISSOURI HIGHWAY PATROL FOR FAILURE TO STOP AT A STOP SIGN, THOUGH I APPLIED THE BREAKS WITH ENOUGH FORCE TO STOP THE VEHICLE. I STILL HAVE PROBLEMS WITH T…”
NHTSA complaint #11376913, 2019 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“side impact from another vehicle damaging left front and rear doors including pillar panel”
NHTSA complaint #11489917, 2022 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Wheels 7 1 crash 1 fire

“Got hit at 40 miles an hour in a parking lot while a running dog came through and it was caotic”
NHTSA complaint #11544909, 2023 · crash · fire

“The car shakes between 30-40 MPH, with or without acceleration. I’ve done a lot of research on this issue many people are having the same issue and can’t find a solution.”
NHTSA complaint #11595193, 2024

“VEHICLE WAS SOLD WITH DEFECTIVE TIRES THAT WEAR OUT PREMATURELY,NHTSA ISSUED A WARNING TO CHEVY SEE CHEVY BULLETIN NUMBERED 19-NA-078,CHEVY NEVER NOTIFIED OWNERS OF THESE CARS OF THE DEFECT,THIS SAME TIRE THE MICHELIN LTX HAD BEEN RECALLED MANY TIMES SINCE 2012,YET CHEVY CONTINUED TO USE THESE TIRES ON THERE LEASED VEHICLES, KNOWING BY THE TIME THE LEASE WAS UP THE TIRE WOULD BE REPLACED ANYHOW,HOWEVER THEY DID REALIZE THE TIRES WOULD WEAR DOWN EVEN QUICKER THEN THEY THOUGHT.WE CONTACTED OUR CHEVY DEALER, WHO TOLD US THEY DIDN'T EVEN KNOW ABOUT THE RECALL,AND GAVE US A HARD TIME ABOUT GETTING…”
NHTSA complaint #11504259, 2023

Exterior Lighting 6

“The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the turn signal flashed two or three times and then stopped. In addition, the doors independently locked and unlocked, and the TPMS sensors were inoperable. The contact stated that when the failure occurred, the front headlights flashed off and came back on. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 32,050.”
NHTSA complaint #11714012, 2026

“On August 3rd, while driving on the freeway at 55mph, my vehicle's brakes became extremely stiff, and I could not press them down to engage the braking system. I was about to collide with the vehicle in front of me, so I quickly veered right without looking because I had no time. After moving to the right, the brakes finally slowed the vehicle to around 40mph. Luckily, the traffic light turned green, allowing me to continue moving with the remaining momentum. As I attempted to take a turn on a bridge above the freeway, the steering wheel became stiff. At this point, I was unsure whether I coul…”
NHTSA complaint #11684972, 2025

“Premature headlamp (low beam) failure. The light abruptly failed and it was acknowledged by the manufacturer that this should not have occurred. The failure occurred in October of 2023. Light fixture has since been replaced. The low beam bulb is not accessible for replacement in our vehicle. Instead the entire headlight assembly has to be replaced. The estimated cost for a single replacement was approx $2,600.00. After back and forth with the manufacturer they agreed to replace both headlight assemblies for approximately $1,900.00. A previous recall was issued for GM vehicles in the early 2000…”
NHTSA complaint #11563502, 2023

Fuel System 6

“The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start as needed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who replaced the fuel pump and fuel pump control module. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V013000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 38,451.”
NHTSA complaint #11753771, 2026

“The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost automotive power and failed to properly accelerate. Additionally, the check engine warning light illuminated before the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the fuel pump drive control module had failed and needed to be replaced. The fuel pump drive control module was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact stated th…”
NHTSA complaint #11731496, 2026

“The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while his son was driving 60 MPH, the vehicle jerked and failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal and stalled. No warning light was illuminated. The contact's son was able to coast to the side of the road. The contact's son called Roadside Assistance, who added gasoline to the vehicle, because the contact's son believed that was the cause of the failure. However, the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with fuel pump failure. The fuel pump…”
NHTSA complaint #11660352, 2025

Structure 6 2 crash 1 fire 2 injury

“I PURCHASED THE 2020 EQUINOX SUV. IMMEDIATELY LEAVING THE DEALERSHIP AFTER A HEAVY RAIN THE SUV WASN'T ABLE TO STOP WHEN I APPLIED THE BREAKS & APPROACHED A STOP SIGN ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY AND I WAS STRUCK ON THE DRIVER SIDE OF THE CAR. I WOKE UP IN A TRAUMA CENTER IN SPRINGFIELD MO. THE VEHICLE HAD 84 MILES ON IT. $17,500 IN DAMAGE NOT INCLUDING SERIOUS INJURIES NOT JUST TO MYSELF BUT THE CAR THAT STRUCK ME. I WAS ALSO SITED A TICKET FROM THE MISSOURI HIGHWAY PATROL FOR FAILURE TO STOP AT A STOP SIGN, THOUGH I APPLIED THE BREAKS WITH ENOUGH FORCE TO STOP THE VEHICLE. I STILL HAVE PROBLEMS WITH T…”
NHTSA complaint #11376913, 2019 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“AS THIS CAR WAS BEING DRIVEN DOWN THE HIGHWAY, ABOUT 10 MINUTES INTO MY DRIVE, SMOKE STARTED COMING FROM THE VEHICLE, I PULLED OVER, A PASSER BY RAN OVER TO ME TELLING ME TO GET OUT OF THE VEHICLE THAT FLAMES WERE SHOOTING OUT OF THE BOTTOM. AS SOON AS I EXITED THE CAR, THE ENTIRE CAR WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE ENTIRE CAR WAS BURNED TO THE GROUND. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED AND EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. GM REFUSED TO RECALL THIS VEHICLE OR TO TAKE ANY RESPONSIBILITY.”
NHTSA complaint #11376144, 2020 · fire

“PULLING OUT OF CARWASH.TURNING LEFT IN CARWASH LOT. CAR ENGINE REVED UP, CAR LUNGED FORWARD AT HIGH SPEED. SLAMMED ON BRAKE BUT BRAKE PEDAL WENT RIGHT TO THE FLOOR. CAR THEN SIDE SWIPED CARWASH VACUUM SYSTEM ON PASSENGER SIDE SCRAPING AND DENTING BOTH PASSENGER SIDE DOORS. THREW CAR INTO PARK AND SHUT OFF ENGINE TO STOP WAITED 5 MINUTES. TURNED CAR BACK ON PUT CAR IN DRIVE. SLOWLY MOVED AND PUT BRAKE ON. BRAKES WORKED. DROVE 5 MILES TO GET HOME. NOW AFRAID TO DRIVE CAR.”
NHTSA complaint #11362740, 2020 · crash

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 5

“The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the check engine, traction control, and stability control warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local Advance Auto Store and was diagnosed with a fuel injector failure. The fuel injectors were replaced, but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 92,080.”
NHTSA complaint #11674455, 2025

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LANE DEPARTURE ASSIST FEATURE DISPLAYED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL THAT THE CONTACT WAS OUTSIDE OF THE INTENDED LANE, DESPITE THE CONTACT BEING WITHIN THE LANE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ANOTHER FEATURE OF THE SYSTEM WAS THAT THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD VIBRATE TO INDICATE THE VEHICLE DEPARTED THE LANE HOWEVER, THE FEATURE ACTIVATED INTERMITTENTLY WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STILL IN THE LANE. LOU BOCHRODT AUTO MALL (7070 CHERRYVALE N BLVD, ROCKFORD, IL 61112, (815) 332-3000) WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS…”
NHTSA complaint #11323889, 2020

“TURNED CAR ON (IN DRIVEWAY) AND SERVICE ESC LIGHT CAME ON. TRACTION CONTROL, STABILITY CONTROL, AND DRIVER FRONT AND LANE ASSIST ALL DISENGAGED. UNABLE TO MANUALLY TURN BACK ON THROUGH STEERING CONTROLS. STOPPED THE VEHICLE, PARKED IN A PARKING LOT, AND TURNED ON AND OFF MULTIPLE TIMES AND THE SERVICE ESC LIGHT WAS STILL ON. DROVE TO DESTINATION WITH THE SERVICE ESC LIGHT STILL ON, TURNED OFF VEHICLE, WAITED A FEW MINUTES, TURNED IT BACK ON AND THE SERVICE ESC LIGHT WAS OFF. CONTACTED LOCAL CHEVY DEALER'S SERVICE DEPARTMENT. WAS TOLD TO DRIVE AROUND FOR A COUPLE MORE DAYS AND SEE IF THE ISSUE…”
NHTSA complaint #11302304, 2020

Back Over Prevention 3

“turbo/superchargers malfunctioned, and I had to have it replaced back up sensors do not work properly. Say backup, assistant, malfunction.”
NHTSA complaint #11714370, 2026

“Infotainment center is not operable. Had a diagnostic test completed by certified dealership and it is found that the infotainment center and radio is not operable. Contacted General motors corporate office. $47 was offered to go towards the $950 to fix it It. They did not offer any reimbursement for the $204 paid out of pocket for diagnostics fee that I they advised me to get after filing complaint. Due to the malfunction of the infotainment center and radio other safety issues have stopped working. Such as the onstar safety feature, the phone In case of emergency, the turn signals and also t…”
NHTSA complaint #11720833, 2025

Lane Departure 3

“My car won’t stay started as if the gas is not going through the engine. I was told it might be the fuel control module or fuel pump”
NHTSA complaint #11672084, 2025

“All Wheel Drive System - 3/20/23 I was on a County maintained dirt road where adjacent property owner had put fencing, tires, & other trash in the road to stop public use. As I had all wheel drive I went up on a 3' +/- side berm to get around. When the front end was approximately at the top, car started to slip & rear passenger tire "tried" to correct slip & car switched into low without my touching gear shift (I looked). From having a 2005 Equinox with AWD, I knew this was AWD going into action. When car did not change drive wheels like my 2005, I let off on the gas; turned nose downhill…”
NHTSA complaint #11523740, 2023

“WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE, RECEIVED "SERVICE ESC" WARNING ON THE DASHBOARD WITH 4 "LIGHTS" ON THE DASHBOARD. ABS LIGHT, TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT, STABILITY CONTROL, AND PARKING BRAKE LIGHT. LANE KEEP ASSIST HAS BEEN DISABLED, FRONT COLLISION WARNING HAS BEEN DISABLED, AND FRONT PEDESTRIAN BRAKING HAS BEEN DISABLED. ALL OF THESE LIGHTS TURN ON AND OFF CONTINUOUSLY WHILE DRIVING AND SOMETIMES WILL TURN OFF FOR A COUPLE OF HOURS AND TURN BACK ON.”
NHTSA complaint #11404169, 2021

Seat Belts 3 2 crash 1 injury 1 death

“I AM A CRASH INVESTIGATOR/RECONSTRUCTIONIST LOOKING INTO A FATAL CRASH INVOLVING A 2020 EQUINOX WITH APPROXIMATELY 2000 MILES ON IT THAT HIT A TREE IN THE FRONT (HEAD-ON) AT APPROXIMATELY 40 MILES PER HOUR. THERE WERE 2 OCCUPANTS, DRIVER AND FRONT SEAT PASSENGER. PASSENGER SAID HE WAS NOT WEARING HIS SEAT BELT. PASSENGER SEAT BELT WAS FOUND TO BE RETRACTED AND LOCKED TIGHT. DRIVER SEAT BELT WAS FOUND TO BE RETRACTED AND LOOSE (NORMAL POSITIONING). INITIAL OBSERVATION OF THE CDR DATA, AND NOT THAT OF A THOROUGH AND COMPLETE ANALYSIS, INDICATES THAT THE DRIVER WAS BUCKLED AND THE PASSENGER…”
NHTSA complaint #11360229, 2020 · crash · 1 death(s)

“We were in a 9car pile up. Front and back and drivers side were hit and severely damaged. Airbags did not deploy. After the accident smoke was seen coming from the sides of the car where the seat belts come out of. Both front and back were white puffs of smoke from all four seatbelts. The front passenger seatbelt failed to tighten on impact as all the other seatbelts did. Passenger was thrown about the front area, hitting multiple parts of the body. Car is currently in a tow lot. Insurance is going to inspect it.”
NHTSA complaint #11673195, 2025 · crash

“My son was just in his car seat with the seat belt as an extra layer of protection and the seat belt wouldn’t retract. My son was stuck. Thank god it wasn’t an accident. Passenger side back seat belt. This needs to be dealt with. It took me 30 mins because I was trying to get it to retract and it started to squeeze my baby legs. I did take a video. It only lets me upload photos. Please contact me”
NHTSA complaint #11571350, 2024

Chest Clip 2

“The harness will loosen while I’m driving, after I have tightened / secured my child, therefore making them unsafe in the result of a crash.”
NHTSA complaint #11634168, 2024

“1. The harness will randomly loosen while we are driving down the road after we have insured our child is securely in the seat. 2. Our child would not be properly restrained in the result of a wreck. 3. Yes, inspected by a CPST.”
NHTSA complaint #11634171, 2024

Latches/Locks/Linkages 2

“The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the turn signal flashed two or three times and then stopped. In addition, the doors independently locked and unlocked, and the TPMS sensors were inoperable. The contact stated that when the failure occurred, the front headlights flashed off and came back on. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 32,050.”
NHTSA complaint #11714012, 2026

“Vehicle intermittent brake catches, lights come sometimes, door locks open and close, engine light comes on and last time system locked completely and could get vehicle into gear. Had to have it towed. Second time into dealer service, now on 4th week and GM factory unable to determine problem and solution. Copy of my letter sent to General Motors for remedy of my Equinox problems not solved. Consumer's 2020 Chevrolet Equinox has developed multiple defects that cannot be fixed.. The brakes will suddenly catch, the lights come on on their own, door locks will lock and unlock intermittently and…”
NHTSA complaint #11465422, 2022

Visibility 2

“The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that at start -up, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the engine. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was advised that the A/C compressor was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced Technical Service Bulletin: 18-NA-162; as a possible cause for the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 50,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11660543, 2025

“The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at the dealer for the front grille replacement after the vehicle had struck a turkey, the contact was informed that the moon roof was inoperable and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that water later entered the vehicle through the moon roof, soaking the spare tire and damaging the air compressor beneath the cargo space. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The vehicle was not repaired…”
NHTSA complaint #11623587, 2024

Equipment 1

Parking Brake 1

“The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that the vehicle was designed with two electric parking brakes. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the electric parking brake engaged independently. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the rear brake calipers were defective and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH on a slippery road, the electric parking brake engaged inadvertently, causing the rear wheels to lock, and the vehicle spun. The contact stated that he w…”
NHTSA complaint #11577322, 2024

Seats 1

“System states rear seat reminder. Look in rear seat. Look in rear seats. This is a hazard to my infant as his car seat is located in the back seats behind the passenger.”
NHTSA complaint #11543960, 2023

Tires 1

“These tires came on my brand new car that is less than a year old (21000 miles). I went for an oil change and the dealership told me I have 3/32nds on my tires! Bridgestone new about the rapid wear of these tires but never sent out any kind of notification about it. My dealership had a bulletin about the tires premature wearing. (#20-NA-159) Bridgestone said they are offering to cover 40% of replacement cost if I get the same tires otherwise they aren't giving anything.....I would NEVER EVER get these tires on my car.”
NHTSA complaint #11431508, 2021

Traction Control System 1

“The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the check engine, traction control, and stability control warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local Advance Auto Store and was diagnosed with a fuel injector failure. The fuel injectors were replaced, but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 92,080.”
NHTSA complaint #11674455, 2025