Chevy Equinox Transmission Problems
Is your Chevy Equinox bucking and jerking, especially when the air conditioner is on? You are not alone. Numerous Chevy Equinox drivers are calling the LEMON LAW hotline to discuss the problems they are experiencing with their Chevy Equinox transmission. Service advisers cannot figure out how to fix the problem, nor can they identify how it is connected to the air conditioner.
If your Chevrolet Equinox is bucking or lunging, make sure you get to an authorized Chevrolet dealership to have the matter addressed. If necessary, take the service adviser for a test drive to illustrate the situation. Also, make sure you receive a repair invoice for each time the vehicle is in the shop, even if they claim they cannot duplicate or fix the problem. Once you are in three times under your warranty for this issue, you may be entitled to recourse under State and/or Federal Law.
If you are having transmission issues with your Chevrolet Equinox or you have questions about state lemon laws (including New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania customers), call us at 1 800 LEMON LAW (1-800-536-6652) or fill out our Get Rid of Your Lemon form.
August 20th, 2011 at 1:41 pm
Purchased 2011 Equinox 6 weeks ago and has been in shop almost 3 weeks of that time. Continous problems with the transmission, noise at start-up and wind problem with drivers side door. Chevy should be ashamed to put a vehicle out with such a junk transmission.
August 22nd, 2011 at 10:00 am
Todd: Give us a call at 800-LEMON-LAW to see if we can help you resolve this issue.
October 4th, 2011 at 7:20 pm
2011 Equinox with 400 miles and the transmission exploded. Dealer acted very surprised to hear this–I’m sure they were. 9 days in the shop and I had to get firm to get them to replace the tranny rather than rebuild it. Still, it does idle rough and hesitate with the AC on. Should I be concerned? I am at 3000 miles now and have had the car 3 months.
November 13th, 2011 at 7:12 pm
i have a 2005 Equinox, ran very good intill it hit the 70000 mile mark, the trans started shaking when it shifted into high gear . the dealer replaced the torque converter but that didnot stop the problem so they rebuilt the trans , now the speed censer has gone bad 4 times in the last 3 months , drove the car today and the same thing happened the engine light goes on and the traction light light and you have no more trans , the dealer is stumped and now my extended warranty is up. very unhappy
December 11th, 2011 at 2:39 pm
I bought a 2011 Equinox in July 2011. Last week I took it to my regular garage to have my tires rotated and oil changed. I was greatly susrprised when the owner of the garage called and told me my transmission fluid is “black like motor oil”. I may be a woman, however I know that transmission fluid only about 6 months and 12,000 miles should not be black. When I called my dealership, the service department laughed when I repeated what the dealership said. I told the service rep I wanted the vehicle looked at as I drive many miles each day and don’t want anything to happen with transmission.
December 20th, 2011 at 12:58 pm
I have a 2005 Chevy Equinox and now have it in the shop. The transmission is completely shot. I don’t understand how this could happen….the car is not even old. I had the bucking and jerking problems also. Now I am just waiting to hear back from the dealership on the amount I’m going to have to pay 🙁
February 10th, 2012 at 12:01 pm
Just got told that my Chevy Eq 2005 will have to have the transmission changed. This is unbelievable!!!! Less then 70,000 miles on it. It’s been jerking n running horrible for the last 2 months
February 10th, 2012 at 3:04 pm
My 2010 Equinox is in the shop now with the transmission slipping in first gear. On the highway it is still fine. First sign was that it took extra long to engage when going from R to D. When I put it in manual mode, it didn’t slip anymore which is how I drove it to the dealer but it gave hard shifts at the low gears, fine at the higher gears (3-6). Could be a bad syncro, torque converter or even some electronic sensor, who knows. Never had a transmission problem before in my entire life. Glad it is under warranty.
February 14th, 2012 at 7:03 pm
I have a 2005 Chevrolet Equinox. Transmission just went out.
March 1st, 2012 at 5:27 am
i have a 2005 equinox….seriously chevy should be ashame with this car on the market!!!!car is nice on otherside transmission is giving up on me.everytime i shift it jumps and first gears it jerks and slips.my car is not that old. my brother drives a 78 and it run alot more smoother then mine:( shame on chevy!!!!
March 24th, 2012 at 1:25 pm
I have a 2005 Chevrolet Equinox that I bought used with around 72000 miles in February 2011. It is currently sitting at a local garage with a little over 74000 miles. Since I have owned it it has had new shocks, new transmission modulator, new transmission, new tires, and now needs a new drive train… I don’t think the heating system is quite right either but haven’t been able to drive it much since I bought it. It makes me absolutely sick 🙁 upside down on the loan and feeling like there is nothing to do but tie yellow balloons around it
March 29th, 2012 at 2:54 pm
I have a 2007 equinox with a little over 80000 and its been slipping from 1st into 2nd,transmission shop just told me I need anew transmission, only had the car for 2 years and im a single parent with children…………………..Im stressed dont no what to do
May 2nd, 2012 at 7:53 pm
I have a 2007 Chevy Equinox and I contact the dealership to set up an appointment because my truck was jerking and pulling. I told the service dealer that I thought I needed a tune-up on my truck. His response was a tne up is done every 100,000 miles and asked how many miles I had. My response was I only have 88,000 miles on my truck. He stated tht it sounds like the transmission. Sure enough after I had a diagnostic test done on my truck. They came back with a bill of $3,900 to have a transmission replaced. What I don’t understand is why is it that a spark plug has to be replaced every 100,000 miles but a transmission has to be replaced at 88,000. I failed to mention that my warranty expired Feb 20, 2012. At this point I honestly feel as if the sales rep conveniently sold this vehicle to me to get it “off the lot”. Chevy should stand by their vehicles ALL of them. I’m a single parent with not one, not, two, but three children and $3900 is unheard of. My warranty conveniently expired two months before the transmission began giving me problems. Now what do I do? American-Made Automobile dealerships want us to buy American made cars and we ultimately end up paying for first class hand me downs. I think Chevy needs to be shut down or let a foreign company take over. At least I know I’ll be paying for what I’m buying.
Lastly, when I took my truck off the lot I had a total of 20 miles on it. So here I am today with 88,000 miles and my transmission is blown. Before I spend $3900 for a transmission I’ll find an attorney willing to take care of this for me. Based on the research I’ve done on this site and others.. I am NOT alone!!!
May 16th, 2012 at 8:27 pm
I have a 2006 Chevy equinox that I financed brand new started giving me problems at 20k tranny slipping etc brought it to dealer and they stated it was fine, started to hard shift there after again dealer said it was fine, I changed the battery 3x and just spent 2300 rebuilding the transmission got a 12000 mile warranty and 7000 miles into the complete rebuild tranny is hard shifting in 1st gear. From my understanding as numerous mechanics have told me but no Chevy dealership states the transmission valve body is the issue with the af33 transmission
May 29th, 2012 at 11:08 am
i have a 2005 equinox…and everytime i shif it jumps in first gear..theres got to be something that.chevy company should do for owners of this car…they should be ashame….who is going to pay for this?
May 30th, 2012 at 1:10 pm
chevy is going to do nothing believe me I emailed the president of chevy in 2010 and cursed him out he called me back n apologized but I refused to pay 5000 for a new tranny so its the valve body thatt makes the tranny buck n jump n hard shift dont let anyone tell u different its a big problem they have and do nothing about it
May 30th, 2012 at 1:15 pm
John: Most of the time, a consumer will not be fruitless when contacting a manufacturer executive. That is why it is important to look into your rights under State and Federal laws.
May 30th, 2012 at 1:32 pm
the valve body costs anywhere from 800 to 1200 they sell rebuilt ones for 500 but they break just as fast like I said my tranny had a complete overhaul oh I forgot to mention I bought a used tranny from ebay with 23000 miles paid 1200 to put it in and that tranny had to be rebuilt so do the math 550 for the tranny 1200 to put it in and 2300 to rebuild it luckily its under warranty and next week there going to rebuild it again for free so that’s 31000 miles the tranny has on it and it has to be rebuilt again 2x in 8 months 3 batteries 2 radiators 1 blend door 2 windshields 1 water pump 2 axles 2 double engine fans 2 front shocks 2 starters 1 e.g.r valve now next heater core and multiple wires that burned up from shorts the truck is the worst thing I ever bought in my life Chevy will never get my money again you finance a car for 60 months and for 36 months its parked and doesn’t move it hurts every time I drive and look at it. From now on its only foreign cars I will buy they last forever. I also had a 2001 Chevy Malibu and at 50000 miles the engine cracked in half but had a Toyota and drove it for 3 years with no oil change and barely no oil in it and it was still running fine when I gave it away at 200k miles what a shame.
May 30th, 2012 at 1:38 pm
I tried everything before my warranty ran out they said its fine john your tranny needs a tune up ok as soon as it hit 60k plus 5500 for a new tranny it also has codes that state engine bank 1 to lean I have been going threw it since I bought it in 2006 the truck now has 115k on it and still gives me headaches but its not only Chevy Saturn and Pontiac use the same tranny and the same problems
July 15th, 2012 at 10:44 am
I purchased a 2011 Chevy Equinox in May of 2011. It went into the shop in August 2011 for the engine just shutting off and Jerking while driving. The dealer replaced the cam shaft phazers and the cam shaft itself. It has been in the shop 4 or 5 times since then for the same problem even after the repairs. It is there now.
July 19th, 2012 at 12:04 pm
Barri: You certainly have a State or Federal claim and would be entitled to remedy. Please visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a lawyer in your state who could help.
July 23rd, 2012 at 11:47 am
Purchased a 2012 equinox in oct 2011 new was fine till around 9000 miles then noticed slipping in reverse then in drive it would lock in 3rd gear 2 diffrent chevy dealers have looked at it one replace transmission modual however we just took it back in today for the same problem 3rd time it has 12300 miles so still in warrenty thankfully. All this only has happend since the outside temp is higher and after at least a 60 mile highway trip. Just interested if anyone else has had trouble with the 2012 tranys?
July 26th, 2012 at 5:02 pm
You should look into your rights. Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html for an attorney in your state.
August 22nd, 2012 at 9:54 pm
I have a 2008 equinox and the tranny started to slip in 1st gear, was repaired and was fine until it hit 42000 miles. The stability trak light jumped on and the trans went crazy, did not want to move in 1st gear. It’s at the dealer now, happy it is still under warranty. The only reason I bought Chevy is because of it’s reputation for making things right even when they have a problem. I guess that’s not true anymore!
August 26th, 2012 at 1:50 pm
2007 Chev Equinox. Trans is now slipping in 2nd and 3rd gear. 98000 miles. Has been a good vehicle until now. Garage kept with all required services completed. The purpose of buying “American” is to keep our fellow countrymen employed. A few things to think about:
1) The corporation is only as American and it’s share holders.
2) If a “Foreign” automaker is employing American middleclass workers isn’t that just as good?
My money will go to an automaker who invests in the American middleclass regardless of the name on the building or it’s claim as “American”
August 31st, 2012 at 8:54 am
2005 Chevy Equinox same problem with the transmission. Shame Shame Shame on Chevy.
September 3rd, 2012 at 9:18 am
My son’s mom has a 2005 Equinox and its been nothing but problems. She had to replace the entire engine at 96,000 miles. It just blew a hole in the bottom of the engine block on her way to work one morning while she was on the freeway. All the knobs on the radio are missing the numbers, the tailgate doesnt open, cd player is broken..just an all around crappy car. This is her first and definately last American car. Its a shame America puts out absolute garbage. Strictly Japanese vehicles from now on. I suggest you all do the same. I’ve lost faith in America and they’re plastic vehicles…
September 30th, 2012 at 3:12 pm
I have a 2005 Equinox. In the past 2 yrs I’ve had to replace all 4 wheel bearings, speed sensors, front and rear brakes, the CD player doesn’t work, new battery, starter, fuel pump, new tires. Now it died while I was driving it in traffic. This is ridiculous! I had a Chev Venture van and it was problem free for 10 yrs. This Equinox is a nightmare!
October 10th, 2012 at 6:14 pm
My 2008 equinox I bought in march it was taken in because it was acting like transmission was going out they told me I was low on oil so 200 on an oil change a month later reverse went out and the car wouldn’t shift out of 1st so the car is sitting at the dealership right now awaiting a new transmission and I really wish I would have read this first no wonder book value was 21k and I paid 14k thought I was getting a deal…but realize I was getting ripped off…!!! Should have bought a Honda!!!!
October 20th, 2012 at 7:31 pm
I have a 2010 equinox LT and as I accelerate on the gas it sounds like a 20 year old car. it feels like it is going to stall when it’s idle. Is this something I should be worried about?
October 26th, 2012 at 2:40 pm
driving a 2011 Equinox at work – was bought new – was told trans was replaced at 97K – now has 177K – trans has gone again – had warranty on vehicle 3 yr. 160K – first unit was warranty – replacement unit only covered by original warranty – bill is $4131. for replacement which if we pay will be covered 3 yr. 160K? Tell me that is fair…personally have had over 65 vehicles have not yet had to replace any trans. some with over 300,000 mi
December 2nd, 2012 at 7:14 pm
i have a 2005 chevey equinox and the transmission is messed up….somtime it’ll go into park then somtimes i have to keep moving the shifter till it goes into park
December 18th, 2012 at 1:29 pm
I have a 2007 Chevy Equinox that needs a new transmission. Talked to Chevy and they refused to do anything about it….even after acknowledging the problems with the Equinox transmissions.
December 18th, 2012 at 3:35 pm
I have a 2008 Chevy Equinox with 102,000 miles. The transmission needs to be replaced, and I have no warranty. The car is paid off. Is it worth replacing ($2400) or should I just trade it in for a used foreign car? I am a student and can’t really afford either. HELP!!!
December 20th, 2012 at 1:20 pm
Crystal: Hard to say. Speak with an experienced mechanic to get their opinion.
December 21st, 2012 at 10:39 pm
Hi. I purchased a 2005 Chevy Equinox in June of this year. Yesterday, I was driving it & it turned off. Tried to start it & it wouldn’t catch. Tried to jump it & it wouldn’t start. Called the tow truck when he came he smelt something burning he thought it was his truck but it was my SUV.
anyway, the guy at the shop said I need a new engine. I asked what causes this he said its hard to pin point what exactly it is.
Is my car covered under the lemon law or do I have to come out of pocket. Mind you I just had to pay $700 for a new window & body work because my car was struck in the Hurricane Sandy.
My car has 57,000 miles & I didnt purchase an extended warranty*
Its Christmas time so please any information you have will be appreciated.
December 28th, 2012 at 1:37 pm
Tara: Due to the miles, it would not be covered under the laws we work with.
January 3rd, 2013 at 8:38 am
I have a 05 Chevy equinox and I have had to replace the engine and now the transmission sounds as if it is about to go. In looking at all the blogs I see that I made a grave mistake purchasing the equinox. Guess I will look at trading it before it completely blows. This is ridiculous and I will never own another Chevy in life. Stick with the good stuff. Go get a Honda.
January 10th, 2013 at 5:20 pm
I bought a 2012 Chevy Equinox and the transmission started slipping 3 months after I purchased it NEW! DON’T BUY A EQUINOX!!! It’s a piece of crap!
January 13th, 2013 at 3:10 pm
my daughter has a 2010 equiox trans. cooler lines leaking
dealer wants 500,00 t0 change I think all chevy Is producing is crap
January 16th, 2013 at 9:26 pm
2011 Equinox purchased in June 2011. Active lemon claim in progress…First problems at 3 months and 3900 miles…stalls…service engine light…dieseling sound on start up…dealer only convinced it was a problem when I showed him a video of sound car makes at start up…multiple transmission leaks…cam solenoids replaced multiple times…front wheel seals replaced…33 days in shop in 19 months…Local service dealer says you should be glad you have a 100K power train warranty…we will fix it if it breaks…GM is buying vehicle back under lemon law…beware of usage fees involved when/if you make a claim…understand a bad apple gets of the assembly line sometimes…however this is my first ever experience as a Chevy owner for my own vehicle…will be my last
January 17th, 2013 at 11:44 am
I have 2006 for 6 years and done 180000miles on it. the tranny started to slip from 1 to 2 gear. but its normal for that millage! nobody say that it will work forever!
its much better than my second car in the fammely! 2010 toyota rav 4. thanks god its on leas. on 20000miles the tranny was changed. front drivers window from day 1 was smelling funky, at about 30000miles its burned. from 10000miles untill now every 2-3weeks the car is going to the garage with check engine light! front brakes faded in first 2weeks.
before i had honda crv and it was better than rav 4 but tranny went away on 100000miles.
January 22nd, 2013 at 11:19 am
i have an 2008 chevy equinox, my second month of having the car the brakes were bad. It has this weird smoky water damage smell. So my uncle looked at car fax and it said it was a rental car, a few almost a year later and my car starts jerking and bucking.i had to get that fixed and chevy actually had an recall on that and was able to get a refund. i have gotten my tire sensors done about 8 times a wheel alignment. and now my stabilitrak light keeps coming on my brakes are bad again and my airbag light keeps coming on. I had to get my headlight repalced three times due to a leak. Everytime i turn around this car is having problems, but always the same problems! What advice can i get?
January 22nd, 2013 at 11:30 am
Chevy dealer should be ashamed
January 25th, 2013 at 3:01 pm
I have a 2008 chevy Equinox. The transmission just went out at less than 70,000 miles. I was so proud because I had just made my last loan payment. I am a widow barely making ends meet right now. Don’t know what I am going to do. Took the car to our nearest Chevy dealer and they would not even take the car to be worked on. I could tell there disgust for the equinox. Managed to get the car home, would only drive in first gear. So….what am I suppose to do now?? No car and no way to get to work and I can’t even get the dealership to work on it. Guess I will have to get it to a tranmission place somehow
January 28th, 2013 at 1:59 pm
My wife and I bought a 2012 LT late last February. In the entirety of the 15,200 miles since then, I haven’t even had to put more air in the tires. We had 0 problems. That is, until yesterday. Two days ago, it was perfectly fine, but yesterday we took it out to run errands, and the transmission started acting up. It didn’t seem to want to leave 1st gear. It got worse over the next 30 seconds, and eventually we pulled over. After that, no matter what gear or whether it was in auto or manual, forward or reverse, the car would go nowhere. It started and ran just fine, but the transmission wouldn’t catch. We had it towed and it is currently being serviced. I can only hope these problems out of the blue don’t lead to some of the horror stories I’ve read recently as I’ve been researching Equinox issues and recalls. Hopefully I’ll hear something soon.
January 31st, 2013 at 7:54 pm
have a 2010 equinox 4 cyl. just noticed that i cannot use the manual feature. it goes into manual, but will not shift to higher gear. crusing at 60 mph i put it into manual position and it indicated that i was in 4th gear.
I think it should have been in 6th gear?????? WHAT CAN BE THE PROBLEM?
THANKS JERRY
February 1st, 2013 at 4:59 pm
Follow up:
Turns out the transmission pump was the problem. I didn’t even know that could be an issue, but they had to replace it. I looked elsewhere online and found a technical service bulletin that went out in April of last year. It was about the transmission pump, and 10 different models from 2011 and 2012 had the issue as far as they knew. I like how the issue was known and there was no official recall or anything. I’m just glad it was still under warranty.
The TSB listed a wide variety of symptoms that could result from a faulty pump, so I would recommend considering this solution to many here.
February 1st, 2013 at 9:07 pm
I have a 2005 equinox and was told by the dealer I needed to get my thermostat fixed and that should stop it and/or they could diagnose it. After getting that corrected and the jerking continuing they told me my transmission needed something that would cost me about 800 bucks more. And by the way my AC stopped working about 3 years after I purchased my vehicle. The jerking starter a few months ago.
February 5th, 2013 at 3:35 pm
Dave: if you had three repair attempts under warranty, you may very well be entitled to compensation. Call 1 800 LEMON LAW for more info.
February 9th, 2013 at 1:39 am
Equinox sucks! I have an 06. transmission gone. The car does not even have 100,000 on it yet. I have 8 more months to pay. I want out! might just give them the piece of crap and buy a Honda!
February 14th, 2013 at 7:53 am
I financed a 2005 equinox, I only had the truck for 9 days and it has been in the shop on day 2. When I told them that it jerks, they say nothing it’s wrong, when I asked to return the car I was told it wasn’t an option! it hasn’t even been two Weeks….what can I do?
February 19th, 2013 at 5:24 pm
@wantmymoneyback: The age (2005) is a huge problem here. Reach out to your state attorney general office.
March 11th, 2013 at 3:11 pm
Purchased a 2007 Chevrolet Equinox new Pd $26k. It now has 130k. Every light on my dash is lit up and my transmission is slipping/lagging shifting from 1st to 2nd. My traction control light came on – oh about 40k miles ago. Took it to dealer, paid the mandatory $50 to tell me it would be $500 to fix sensor that’s went bad and NO it’s NOT covered under 100k mile power train warranty. OF COURSE NOT! I still haven’t gotten it fixed. Engine light has been on and it’s some exhaust sensor code. The worst thing is the transmission (I’m assuming its the transmission that’s making the car lag). I can’t afford to take it to the dealership and don’t know who to trust with it. I don’t have $5k to spend on a transmission when I found out today that I can’t get but 3500 trade in for it! I had transmission fluid changed 2 weeks ago, didn’t help. NO codes are throwing for transmission either. ??? It runs and looks great except for the above. It won’t even be paid off til June! I’m so mad!!! Does anyone think contacting GM would help? Cars should last longer than this!! I will NEVER buy another GM product again! Sincerely, Screwed by Chevrolet
March 12th, 2013 at 3:24 pm
Had a new transmission put into my 2008 Equinox at less than 70,000 miles. When I got it back, I promptly traded it off. Never will I own an Equinox again! I spent so much last year on it they should have let me claim it as a dependent on my income tax! Lesson learned! I bought a Toyota pickup, hope and pray I have better luck with it than the EQuinox.
March 20th, 2013 at 8:51 am
the Chevrolet Equinox have the same transmission as the 03 to 05 Nissan Maxima. The problem with the jerking in the transmission is the valve body is been a known problem with the Maxima.Folks you arewasting money rebuilding a transmission. Have your valve body replaced.
March 22nd, 2013 at 9:55 pm
Purchased a 2011 equinox in December It will be 3 months on the 27th that I have had the vehicle. It only has 15000 miles and the car stalled on me on my way home I was at a red light and when the light turned green I put my foot on the gas and it just completley died. The car seems to also shake and idle high its like it has a mind of its own shifting and slowing down on its own I don’t know what to do called the dealer taking it in on Monday but after researching and reading comments I don’t think after paying $20000 for a vehicle anything like I’m experiencing should be happening I’m not happy st all! 🙁
April 5th, 2013 at 10:56 pm
When back to them and got some money back,the 110.00 dollars for the charge of the laptop reading!Or the way body read the lap top…. Be on your guard at 125 dollars per hours they dont seem to make enough!
April 12th, 2013 at 3:10 pm
@Daniel: Please tell me you did not sign anything to get that money. Call a lawyer. You may be entitled to 20-30 x that amount.
April 22nd, 2013 at 10:18 am
Just bought a slightly used 2010 Equinox on the 17th of April. On the 21st of April, transmission went out. Thank God for the warranty. After reading the previous posts, should I ask to bring it back and get another vehicle?
April 22nd, 2013 at 3:13 pm
@Frustration: They are not going to do that for you. If you are in repeatedly, you will need to file a claim. In the meantime, hang on to all repair invoices.
April 23rd, 2013 at 10:46 pm
Have read these numerous complaints and now I’m scared its something very costly. When I push the accelerator around 40mph or so, it starts to stutter and skip and sometimes I feel like I won’t make it up the bridge or it will stall in the middle of turning front of on on coming traffic. Just paid it off and who. An afford these repairs? Planned to keep it a while but now I fell I should get rid of it. Can’t Afford repairs or trade in so what do you do? What could it be?
May 6th, 2013 at 8:15 am
I have a 2008 Chevy equinox…. vehicle has no power between 40 and 50 miles an hour when you go to excelerate…. it also chugs and doesn’t feel like it wants move.. then somewhere around 60 or over it starts chugging again and doesn’t get any power…… and if you keep on the accelerator the engine light will start flashing and then as soon as you lay off the gas pedal it goes off….. took it to the dealer they say they did diagnostic on the car they see nothing wrong with it however they didn’t go for a test drive which I’ll have to do……….. vehicle has 78000 miles on it
May 7th, 2013 at 12:54 am
My girlfriend bought a 2005 equinox back in 2009in 2011 the car started to jerk and kick at first wasn’t to bad went to a shop guy say it might be transmission but he said to the car needed a transmission fluid flush so we did that and he replaced a oil pressure switch the car was ok for a few weeks and then it started back again even worse much harder and when we where on the highway the car started to slow down and I wasn’t applying the brake at all a we lucky nothing happened T/C light came on and check engine light after that day I went to the shop again he did some flush because the car wasn’t starting up right I had to hit the gas to turn the car on he did the flush and the car stared up great and the problem seem to go away but few weeks later the jerking and kicking came back and much worse and the T/C lights come back on and the car doesn’t go past 10miles and I have my foot to the floor please help us a mechanic said to rebuild would be 1200 and new 1700 she still paying the car off
May 7th, 2013 at 3:20 pm
I have a 2008 Equinox Sport with 64,000. Noticed that the transmission was having difficulty switching gears so I took it in for a transmission fluid change. When we got it back, it seemed to fix the issues. However, about a week later the transmission stopped shifting altogether. It is now sitting at the shop while we decide what to do. The warranty ran out 2 months ago!! Now I’m stuck trying to figure out whether to drop a new Chevy transmission in it or rebuild the old one.
Our dealership is running the VIN number to see if GM will do anything to help.
I don’t know what to do!
June 13th, 2013 at 5:27 am
Omg… After reading all the blogs about Chevy, I am very pissed off. I have a 2005 Equinox. And now my engine needs to be replaced at a cost of $5600.00. I just bought the car in November of 2012. I am sooo disappointed and I have a car note on this car. What do I do, it only has $78k miles on it… CRYING, SINGLE MOM, WHAT DO I DO!!!… HHEEELLLLLPPPP
June 25th, 2013 at 2:34 pm
I bought and paid for a 2007 equinox an have a slippage in the transmision;got transmission flushed and it seems like the slippage is worse.Hadother poblems with the vehicle like the ones mentioned.
Since I was younger I swore by Chev rather than a Ford-but I know one thing for sure – the next vehicle I drive will not be a chev.
I think everyone here and all those that have had problems should set up a website or all go to the better business bureau and get chev/gmc to stop selling and making anymore vehicles.
June 26th, 2013 at 2:33 pm
I bought my 2007 Equinox brand new and I have had troulble with it ever since. March 2013, I had to have a modular replaced due to electrical problems that cost me $600.00 and now, June, 2013, another modular has went out due to some electical problem and has fried my transmission and the chevy dealership dont even know exactly what to do for it except they told me that it would be $5000.00 to try and fix the problem but dont really garantee it to fix the problem. What am I to do?
June 27th, 2013 at 8:39 am
We just bought a 2012 Equinox less than a year ago. At about 17,000 miles, the transmission had to be replaced. Good thing it happened still under warranty. The service shop at the dealership acted like they knew nothing about the common transmission issue in equinoxs. We are probably going to have to lose money on it when we trade since we do not want to chance it happening once out of warranty! Is there any way we can get our money back?
June 27th, 2013 at 8:29 pm
Hello, I have been driving my girlfriend’s 2012 equinox for a week now. ( she loves the Acura TL too much lol!!)However I noticed that the gas mileage sucks compared to my 6 cylinder car. So I tried to notice the slightest thing that may point to high gas mileage. And noticed that when the car is automatic the 6speed gear only stops at 4th gear. Which results in a high Rpm, compared to the car in the 6th gear. Is this the normal drive gear for the equinox or is something wrong with the tranny? Please advise.
Thanks.
July 2nd, 2013 at 1:29 pm
Crystal: Keep going back if the matter is not addressed.
July 8th, 2013 at 6:11 pm
I have a 2008 Equinox Sport, I was coming home from Vegas yesterday and when I went to pass a vehicle the car downshifted to give me the power I needed to pass – and then just stayed there. It would not up-shift and as I got off the accelerator the car shut down on me. I towed it in to the dealer today and they just called and said I seized the motor. I have only had the car for 8 months.
July 17th, 2013 at 6:00 pm
We have a 2011 Chevy Equinox with around 30,000 miles on it. We bought it brand new. At 1 year old, I was driving around town with my two very young children and it kept stalling. It probably did this more than 5 times, but I was lucky to at least be able to get it home without any accidents. Called the dealership and come to find out, there was a recall on it. Must have been right after we bought it, and before our paperwork went through for the purchase, because we never received any notification for the recall. Anyway, took it in and the dealership fixed the prob… Now 1 year after that, we have more problems. After driving my car just yesterday, I get in it today and it won’t start. There is a little air coming out from the air conditioning that is NOT cold, but other than that, NOTHING. Also, we’ve been experiencing difficulty in getting the key in and out of the ignition. So much so that the key is now visibly bent due to trying so hard to get it out. In addition to all this, the car has been jerky at times (not all the time), especially when applying pressure to the gas pedal. Beyond frustrated with this very cheaply made car… Have only technically brought it in once, but the problems are ongoing and this car is only two years old!
July 18th, 2013 at 2:32 pm
Thought I had bad gas in my 2008 Equinox. Nope, started researching and 2007 -2009 Equinox’s have bad plug wires than crack spark plug # 1. Found the bulletin on line and took my truck in this am to the dealer. It was struggling to get up hills and spitting and sputtering. The service manager said I was right and replaced the parts. I wish I had been notified. Also I asked about fuel leak problems and he said if I have any leaks, they will replace the fuel pump. Apparently it has a problem too.
Now I’m worried about the transmission. I bought new and it has 48,000. At least they are working with me.
July 18th, 2013 at 3:55 pm
@Lindsay–You need to start bringing the car in regularly. Once you are in three or times, you maybe entitled to compensation under Federal law.
July 24th, 2013 at 3:22 pm
I bought a 2008 equinox a year and a half ago with the extended warranty. Last week the transmission started slipping and then lunging once it kicked in. I brought it into a dealer and the internal parts had to be replaced. Apparently a common problem with these transmissions! The kicker, the extended warranty people refuse to cover the 2,700 repair bill because I was slightly over the 100,000 miles and didn’t get the tranny flush. However the fluid was fine and lack of maintenance had nothing to do with the problem wich is inherent with these vehicles. Also onstar could not detect the problem.
July 24th, 2013 at 4:38 pm
I have a 2007 equinox. I still have about 9 payments left on it. It has been a decent car until it was at around 98,000 miles. Then it has been one thing after another. First they said transmission was slipping and replaced ERG or EGR valve or something like that then I got a light engine hot/compressor off. Head Gaskets!!!!!!!!!!! $2500.00 then tune up then throttle body. Now lights are not coming on like low fuel and change engine oil so that’s probably electrical. I cant afford the repairs on this car. I haven’t even done the transmission yet. I am going to drive it until it goes I guess. I have spent way over $4000.00 on repairs in the last year. I hate this car. I just pray it lasts until its paid off.
August 14th, 2013 at 1:20 pm
I have had my 2010 equinox since 2011. Bought it one year old. After having it a week, the car would not shut off, it would run on for a few seconds then shut off. Took to dealer, they replaced the fuel pump, which didn’t fix it. Took it in again, and they replaced something, I dont remember what it was, and it was ok after that. The engine is really loud, even some friends have commented on its rattle, so I took it to the dealer about that and the fact that once in a while it shifts really hard into second gear when cold. They said they couldn’t figure anything out, that they reprogrammed it and said good enough. Took it in several other times because it continued. Still loud, still shifts hard, but cannot recreate it. Next we were on vacation and the auto rear gate failed. Cant open it manually either. So our luggage was stuck in the back of our car until we found a dealer 16 hours from home to fix it. Next I checked the oil in the engine once when filling with gas as I usually do and it was low on oil. Took to dealer immediately, they checked and said everything was fine. 2 weeks later the car dies with my wife and 2 small children in it. Take it to the dealer, NO OIL!!!! Engine completely replaced. Technician told my wife that had the engine ceased up that it could have severely injured my family. GREAT! Now I was driving it this week and the brakes start making strange noises, the stabilitrak, abs, and 4 wheel drive all quit. SERIOUSLY!!!! Take to dealer, still under 100,000 mile warranty but that part isn’t covered! They say its the wheel bearing and the sensors. $470!!! On a 3 year old car! They said GM used to cover that, but has stopped. Just talked to low level support at GM and they were all sunshine and roses, we will take care of you. Higher level just called and basically told me we MIGHT cover a small amount of it, but thats all. Nothing to say on the numerous other problems, or issues. Im actually concerned with the safety of my family in the vehicle. Used to be a GM fan. Not so much anymore.
August 18th, 2013 at 10:22 am
wanted to get my transmission serviced on my 2005 chevy equinox.. and found out its called a throw away transmission.. What the heck kind of crap is chevy making… you can find the fluid… but not the gasket… I see other numerous complaints about the tranny .. its ok atm but wanted to get it serviced…Should I start documenting my problems with my transmission…
August 19th, 2013 at 3:52 pm
@Joanna: Sadly, the age of the car would prohibit lemon law at this point. That being said, I suggest you see if your state has any used car consumer statutes which can come into play.
August 20th, 2013 at 7:26 am
So the article mentions an alleged connection between the transmission problems and air conditioner problems. I have a post above telling of my transmission pump problems in my 2012 LT Equinox. Just last week, my air conditioner stopped blowing cold air. Not sure why, as everything else seems normal. It’s in the shop right now, but it’s kind of annoying having these systems go out when it’s less than a year and a half old.
August 23rd, 2013 at 2:06 am
My mom got a car this month on the 6 its been 17 days and I’m sure the transmission is messing up yesterday it started jurking really hard and overheated we got a 30 day warranty for 50% of the price of probkems dose this apply for the lemon law its a 2007 with around 91000
August 27th, 2013 at 12:07 am
I purchased a 2012 equinox from Carmax July 27th…had 3 weeks and all console lighting goes dim and then bright at random and they told me there’s no problem. Can’t even see the console during the day. Now transmission is jerking and bucking and when I put it in reverse it idles high and makes an awful rattling noise. Console lighting issue not resolved and have too take it in again tomorrow. ..was just brought in last Tuesday. I haven’t even made the first car pmt yet and I don’t want the car anymore. Have to bring it in twice in one week and only had for 3 weeks. Buying this vehicle was a huge mistake.
August 28th, 2013 at 11:41 am
@Andrea: I hope you are taking the car back to an authorized GM shop for warranty repair, and NOT to Carmax.
August 28th, 2013 at 11:48 am
@Jose: In most states, a 2007 vehicle would not qualify due to the statute of limitations.
August 28th, 2013 at 11:58 am
@lemonlaw..yes carmax brought it to a Chevy dealership but they said it will be several days before they even look at it! Nothing like dropping 23k for a car you can’t drive! I have a feeling this is just the beginning of many trips to the dealership..so frustrated! !
August 28th, 2013 at 1:36 pm
@Andrea: Once you have three repair invoices, call us at 1 800 LEMON LAW so we can determine if you are entitled to financial recourse to reflect the diminished value of the vehicle as a result of the problem.
August 28th, 2013 at 8:48 pm
Just bought a 2010 equinox w 36000 miles. Certified pre owned w extended warranty. Transmissions is acting up. What do I do?
August 29th, 2013 at 3:07 pm
My wife bought a 2013 equinox a couple months ago. Since then I have had it in the shop on three different occasions. It seems like when you are slowing down with your foot on the brakes and it downshifts the brakes pulse causing the equinox to jump forward. Its almost like it takes the brake pedal away from you when it downshifts. Also when the vechile is idoling it seems like it is going to shutoff because of low rpms. Recently the navigation screen shut off and when it came back on it had lines through the screen. Ive made one payment on it and its been at the dealership almost as much as she has drove it. The service department say they can’t duplicate the issues. She doesn’t feel safe driving it. What can I do about it?
August 30th, 2013 at 12:15 pm
@Adam: It’s time to look into your rights. You can find a lemon law lawyer in your state by clicking here: https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html.
August 30th, 2013 at 12:16 pm
@Brian: Get to the shop pronto.
September 17th, 2013 at 3:31 pm
I have a 2008 equinox with around 80k miles on it, I just paid it off, bought it new from the dealership as a leftover 2008. My car also has the musty smell on the floor, I’ve read about Equinox having issues with water getting inside. Last year I had to have the front passenger wheel bearing replaced, and I also experienced the chugging and sputtering people have mentioned. I took it in to a dealership and they said they could not replicate it (odd to me now reading all these complaints because this happened in 2012 after there were known issues apparently) and did not do anything about it. Not long after that I started it up to leave work and it sounded like a motorcycle! I had it towed and it turned out that it had blown a spark plug and I ended up having the rear head gasket replaced. Fortunately I was just barely still under warranty. It seems to be fine since then, however I do experience a lag sometimes when I’m trying to accelerate, and then suddenly it kicks in and the car lurches forward fast (I’ve always just thought this was operator error). Should I be worried about my transmission?
September 17th, 2013 at 3:32 pm
Oh and also to my previous comment. I was getting gas with an empty tank yesterday and the pump shut off completely after 9 gallons, I’ve never had this issue at all whether manually pumping or using the latch. The pump would not kick back on, is this potentially an issue as well?
September 26th, 2013 at 8:10 pm
I purchased a 2010 equinox in May 2013. I constanly hear a pounding noise coming from the rear after I get to my destination,I turn the car off and I will hear that noise that drivenuts. The car idles very
rough at times.I recently startedhearing a loud noise coming from the engine when I go to start it. I feel in my gut that I need to get rid of it.
October 20th, 2013 at 10:27 pm
Bought a 2011 equinox last May and had problems start 3 weeks after!!
Engine light came on and my vehicle was jerking and stalling.
Brought it in they replaced a valve and gave me an oil change ( said there was no oil in it even though the dealership gave me one before I bought it). Within a month it was jerkin again and the engine light came back on. brought it in, they changed another valve. Brought it back almost instantly because my engine light came back on and my oil was gone. Finally after three months of this I brought it in again and found out my engine was shot and they gave me a new one. It’s been a year and thankfully all seems well. Here’s hoping!!
October 23rd, 2013 at 4:09 pm
@Melissa: Under federal law, you may be entitled to monetary compensation to reflect the diminished value of your car as a result of the problems. Submit your info to https://www.lemonlaw.com/rid.html and we will be glad to review your situation to see if we can help.
November 18th, 2013 at 9:34 pm
Bought 2011 Chevy Equinox new in April 2011. Nothing but problems. Shifting mechanism replaced, all four tires replace, all speakers were bad so they replaced them, door handles – the coating was peeling off – all had to be replaced, gas mileage stinks (advertised at 31MPG highway and I am lucky on a good day to get maybe 21)
Now there is a knocking noise in the engine. They told me this is normal but they would put a silencer on it so as not to hear it! No fix. They put the silencer on and it is still knocking and I am furious. I have had it. I want them to take my car and give me my money back. I am sick of calling the car dealership. It also hesitates upon acceleration (they told me this is also normal). I am going to have an accident because of this stupid car.
GM is supposed to be working with my car dealership to come up with a problem. Someone HELP me please!
November 20th, 2013 at 4:22 pm
@Joni: You must find a lemon law lawyer to help you–visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a firm in your state. The dealer is not really in a position where they can do much of anything.
December 6th, 2013 at 3:49 pm
So after reading this forum, I guess my car has more problems than I originally thought. I purchased a 2011 equinox October, check engine light came on November 17 and notified my power to engine reduced. I was in my way to drop my daughter off at school. Car jerked and putted as I approached her school. Turned off and back on. Called dealership and drove it there. They supposedly fixed it. Said it was wiring harness. Well, today, on my way to my dughters school, check engine light back on and car started putting, power reduced. Stopped at.stop sign then car just shut off. Turned back on and sounded like it was going to die. No power but was able to get back home. Shut car off and tried to turn back on but wouldn’t start. This is just a couple weeks of getting the car back from service shop. Called dealership and their response “there was a notice from Chevy about the wiring harness issue. Our tech had an idea of what the issue could have been but we have to follow strict protocols from Chevy. Wiring harness was the first step” what annoys me is that they dis not tell me the first time that my car may act up again but I’m sure their statement today was BS. I’ve noticed my car feeling like its going to shut off when the ac/heater is running. Engine knocks and car doesn’t pick up. Didn’t think much of it until I found this page!!! Car is going k to dealership today. They had the nerve to ask me to call AAA to tow it.I pay for my AAA. THyhis is chevys issue.. car still under warranty.. so they finally agreed to dispatch a tow company to tow my car. I hate this car!!
December 9th, 2013 at 10:53 am
My ’06 is in the shop right now. Bought it used in May of 2012. Replaced a head gasket that fall. Saturday, drove to town and it stopped at the stop sign – would not go. I shifted to R, L then back to drive and got it to the dealer where I bought it (Dodge Dealer). They just told me it’s a sensor on the transmission and possible wiring. Ugh. After this repair I may be out more than the vehicle cost me. Never buying a Chevy again.
Meanwhile – the Dodge dealer is nice enough to drive it to a GM dealer so they can examine the problem.
December 20th, 2013 at 12:42 pm
Bought my 2011 Equinox in Sept. 2011.No problems until 1 month ago transmission started slipping brought it in to the dealer was there for 8 days.they said they cleaned the valve body and it was ok. Well it is now back at the same dealer for the same problem.I wish I would have found this site earlier do not think I would have bought it.Had a1997 Explorer prior to this sold to my neighbor with 125,000 miles on it and he is still driving it every day. Going back to Ford as soon as this problem is fixed.
December 27th, 2013 at 11:11 pm
I bought my 2010 chevy equinox brand new it now has 37864 kilometers or just under 25000 miles on it. I have had a new valve put into my transmission, had a new radio installed because it quit turning off when the drivers door opened, discovered that was a broken wiring harness in the door and now my all wheel drive is not working and the light is on. It is at the dealership now, they are charging me $20 a day for a rental which I am paying as I am on vacation but they are telling me that the repairs may not be covered by warranty as the powertrain warranty was up in July. I work in the oilpatch in Alberta Canada and I know I will be telling everyone I see in the oilpatch to not buy chevy from now on.
January 18th, 2014 at 8:01 pm
I bought a 2005 equinox new in 2005 with the extended warranty. After the first few months, a constant high pitched whining noise would start up at about 30 mph and would not stop until the car came to a complete stop. Unfortunately, the sound comes and goes, and there is no pattern to it’s occurrence so it took over 4 years before the dealer even heard the noise. At this point in time, the dealer has yet to figure out what it is even though it has been in the shop several times. Now, at 80,000 miles, the engine has locked up and needs to be replaced. I have also had the same lag/jerk in the transmission that I’m reading others are experiencing, but have not had to service it (yet). I’m torn between junking the whole car, or putting in a new engine and hope the transmission holds out, but I can’t afford a car payment.
February 11th, 2014 at 12:57 am
I have a 05 Equinox that I bought in 06, everything has been replaced in it, including the engine twice. The check engine light has been on more than it has been off, and now it is sputtering and the engine is revving constantly. It doesn’t matter if it is just idling, stopped, driving. It is making me nervous that I need it fixed again. Any ideas on what this could be?
March 5th, 2014 at 6:43 pm
Hello,
I have a 08 Equinox Sport about 140k miles now. It broke down on me on my way to work. Had to tow it and finally found out the transmission is out……..AGAIN! Already had the transmission fixed once 2 years ago, still under warranty, and now again??? This is not normal. 2 transmission in 6 years is not normal. What can I do? I cant afford 4000 dollar job!
March 6th, 2014 at 11:46 pm
I have a 2010 Equinox with 48K miles. last year(May 2013) on 35K, they change me a new engine due to oil leak, but yesterday when I put on reverse the car wouldn’t move and on drive wouldn’t go more than 24 miles an hour. planning to tow it to the dealer but I have multiple issues since day one. is there anyone experience this problem? thans
March 14th, 2014 at 1:32 pm
I have a 2012 equinox. Noticed about 5-6 month after purchase that it would stall, jerk after I accelerate from a stop light/sign. It happens randomly twice a day, or twice a month.
First I thought it was the low octane gas as suggested by the manufacturer. changed to mid level then high octane no change.
Problem continued.
Returned to dealership, total thirty days over 4-5 times.
Results: cannot duplicate problem. I even test drive a few miles with them but it never happened. I am with the BBB now but I am frustrated because It happens randomly and the computer stores no problems in that or anything else.
I really love the car but it is scary to experience this.
Anyone else with this problem?
March 15th, 2014 at 5:47 pm
I have a 07 Chevy equinox i bought it from drivetime in Feb 2011 by Oct 2011 it was in the shop for the transmission. it spent the entire month of Oct in the shop. they couldn’t get it to act up for them so when they finally did they replaced the transmission… about 2 months later still doing same thing. over this car but owe too much to trade in wish it was eligible under lemon law
March 17th, 2014 at 5:55 pm
My 2005 Chevy equinox which is mentioned several times in here had “transmission” issues too Melissa and they too had a hard time getting it to act up some of the time. However I noticed every time it died that I had just filled the gas tank and so I stopped filling it and only put 20 dollars or 5 gallons in each time (1/2 a tank) and do not have any stalling issues since. The only current problem I have is irrational abs sensor with loss of traction control and hard starts on occasion … Both are manageable.. Thank goodness … Never will I buy a Chevy again but try the gas thing Melissa to see if it helps.
March 18th, 2014 at 12:22 am
Ermi. Same exact issue here. It was a sensor on the transmission. Cost, with labor, $600. Took mine directly to gm dealership. While I was furious, was also relieved it wasn’t a new transmission.
March 28th, 2014 at 9:59 pm
I have a 2010 equinox. Got it 3 months ago. It’s already been to the Chevy dealer 3 times. I explain the same problem every time. It shakes like it’s going to stall and it drives hard burning through oil..engine runs hardent and soon many other issues. FirSt time in they replaced the fuel pump and timing chain. Not even a week later I sent it back and they replaced another timing chain. Said they’d mail me my paper work. After 2 weeks called for my paperwork because. I never got it told them it still sounded and ran funny. They said it’s the new parts settling in and the cold weather. Called back 2 weeks later because it was down 2 quarts of oil and running horribly and still didn’t have the papers from the previous service. Brought back in..they overhauled my engine rebuilt it and put new pistons in..just picked it up tonight and it still feels like it wants to stall and now it has a burning smell. And my warranty is almost up…I hate Chevy!
April 1st, 2014 at 8:28 am
I have an 2011 Equinox and it is been in the shop too many times to count. I have begged GM to just replace my vehicle with something comperable, but of course nothing. My problems started at 7K miles. Engine start up noise, all the time, transmission now has a hard time going into reverse, it takes a while. Mine has been in the shop so much Im sick of taking it. Its bad when you drive up and they know you by name what you are there for and the guy with loaners just goes and gets me a vehicle. I am sick and tired of begging GM to make it right. They have offered me $2500 in cash back to get a new one. No i dont want that. I want mine fixed properly. Whats so bad is I purchased the bumper to bumper warranty to cover my vehicle for at least a year after it was paid for, and it apparently isn’t doing me a bit of good, because they still dont want to fix it. The shop has heard the noise but their hands are tied because GM wont let them do but basically patch things up.. This is bull! This was my first ever GM product and will definitely be my last!
April 2nd, 2014 at 2:52 pm
@Betsy: Have you looked into getting free lemon law representation? Please visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/state-lemon-laws/ to read about your rights.
April 2nd, 2014 at 2:58 pm
@Ashley: What state are you from? You may be entitled to assistance under the Federal Magnsuon Moss Warranty Act. For a free case review, visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/rid.html. If we cannot help, we will try and find someone who can.
April 7th, 2014 at 6:26 pm
I bought a used 2010 Equinox in Nov. of 2013. I was pulling up to a red light and the car jumped and bogged down. When the light turned green and I pushed on the gas it just revved up to about 2500 RPM, then popped , and finally drove off. It was happening the rest of the night. The next day I put the car in reverse and then same thing. The dealership I bought it from might have well told me to screw myself. The car has 75000 miles on it. This is the second chevy I have ever owned and this is the second to do this before 80000 miles. I will never buy another chevy.
April 15th, 2014 at 8:30 pm
Engine head problems cost me 2, 200, now transmission gone. Cost is 3500 dollars. Less than 60k miles! Equinox 2010!
April 22nd, 2014 at 9:00 pm
I just bought a 2012 equinox (26000 miles) a month ago. It is still under factory warranty until 36000 miles and I have purchased an extended warranty from the dealer. As I was slowing down, the vehicle jerked. This happened twice so I took it into the dealer. They thought it jerked because it was trying to find the right gear. No codes were found. Less than 2 weeks later, it did this again as I was slowing down….and then again at the next stop. I am taking it in again in the morning because they want to see what it is doing. What can I do? It does not happen all the time and wont duplicate on demand. Any help would be appreciated.
April 23rd, 2014 at 4:04 pm
@Angelia: If it happens a third time, contact us at https://www.lemonlaw.com/rid.html and we will determine if/how we can help. Make sure youa re receiving repair invoices for each visit.
June 1st, 2014 at 9:03 pm
I have a 2011 equinox that I purchased 6 months ago with just over 48,000 miles on it. I am having issues with the acceleration lagging, up to 3 seconds on the freeway. Also it seems to want to run high at 4,000 rpm when it should be running at about 2,500. The most frequent issue is that when I come to a stop like 75% of the time it feels like someone runs up behind the car and shoves it. It shifts hard all the time. I took it in to the dealership and the service guy drove it with me and of course I couldn’t duplicate it and they fed me some line about it being normal with the 6 speed transmission and they can’t service it based on my word. How do I deal with this with the dealership?
June 10th, 2014 at 6:56 pm
I just purchased a 2014 Chevy Equinox completely new, have only had it for a few months, 2,000 miles on it and it is already jerking while I’m slowing down and it shifts really hard while the air is on. Is there anything that can be done since it was recently purchased?
June 11th, 2014 at 11:11 am
Hi I’m also having problems with my 2010 equinox… Before this car I had a 2005 equinox, and the transmission gave out on that car. I had no other option but to pay more money and trade it in for the one I have now.
Now my 2010 is giving me problems, last night when I put the car in drive, it took a while for the car to shift and drive all the while the rpms were going crazy… I pulled into a parking lot shut the car off and let it sit for a bit, when I turned it on it seemed fine, but I put it in reverse, there was no reverse. Had to have someone help me push it..
I finally drove it home very slow and when I got home the engine light went on.. Really the light went on after the fact. I’m here at the dealer and very worried that its like something major n expensive!!!! I can’t afford to pay for major repairs, the warranty has expired… Please help!
I’ve kept the car up to maintanence just brought it in for service in April 2014….
June 12th, 2014 at 2:00 pm
@Wendy: If you were back in three or more times for the same problem while under warranty, you need to look into your rights. Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a firm in your state that can help.
June 12th, 2014 at 2:02 pm
@Abbie: You need to make sure you keep track of repair invoices and the number of days the vehicle is out of service. Every state has a different lemon law. You can find out about your state by clicking here: https://www.lemonlaw.com/state-lemon-laws/
June 20th, 2014 at 12:22 pm
I purchased a 2011 Equinox and had same problem with jerking and sputtering when I tried to accelerate after stopping. It felt like it was going to stall. Very scary when trying to accelerate to enter an on ramp of a highway. Dealer acted like they knew nothing about this problem. Had it in shop several times for same problem. Now a/c is not working. It was a big problem, cost over $700 . It has 30,000 miles. A/c not working again. Very concerned, I cannot afford a new car and don’t want to sink any more Monet into this same problem when GM knows about it. I did contact them but they were no help. Will it help if I contact them again. I was shocked at how many people have the same problems and they are not doing anything. The hesitation to accelerate on an on ramp of a busy highway is a potential bad accident waiting to happen or is that what they are waiting for like the other recalls of recent. To me this is a very dangerous situation that should be corrected now, not wait until a very bad accident/s. It is going in the shop for the same reasons again. Dealer should have it all documented. I can’t afford a new car. Is this happening w/newer models?
June 22nd, 2014 at 3:17 am
After 101,346 miles my 2005 Cheverolet Equinox has gone
To the wholesalers with failing gaskets, drivers side window is off
The tracks… Unresolved gas issue with only putting x amount of gas
And squeaky abs brakes.
I had the car since February 2011 and she was in the garage
The first 2 years! 10,999 down to a mere 1100 (beggars trade)
See you never Chevy! Goodbye used cars ( not
That a new Chevy equinox would have been any better) and Hello new 2014 Toyota Prius 🙂
Good luck to the rest of you
June 24th, 2014 at 5:10 am
I bought a 2013 Equinox in Aug of 2013 and as of yesterday 6/23/14 it took it’s 3rd tow ride back to the dealer. It would of gone more but I made calls of complaints instead. In Aug when I purchased the car 5 days after I drove it off the lot it would not change gears and then the check engine light would come on and the traction light. So, they picked it up and I got it back a week later. The SAME day they delivered it to me they had to turn around and pick it BACK up not even 30 min later for the same issues. After, keeping it a week again they claimed it was a recall on the sensor and being it was so new they had not caught it. Since then I’ve experienced the AC making a noise and the engine seems loud while just sitting, then yesterday while sitting in line at a fast food joint….. The car tried to jerk out of control while my foot was on the break and once again check engine light comes on and the traction light appears. I am beyond not happy. The Georgia lemon law would cover this except I’m in sales and I have 27,000 miles on the car and GA law say before 24,000 or 2 years. The car is not even a year old and now I feel like I’m stuck. I am begging them to just buy it back or even trade me and do pay off. I feel like I am being screwed on this one. I will never own another if I can help it. This car has been a night mare.
June 29th, 2014 at 6:40 am
Have a 2009 Equinox with about 82,000 miles. Transmission blew out of nowhere. Has been a great car up until now. Was out of town on business and closest Chevy dealership was 20+ miles away and was concerned to drive it that far.
Aamco rebuilt tramsmission. After almost two weeks, got car back, transmission blew again after two weeks. Back to Aamco for another week. Had it one day, blew again. They’ve had it going on two weeks now and they can’t even figure out what is going on.
Aamco told me that there is a known issue with this GM transmission. A part starts to break apart and destroys the transmission. GM coughed up half of the cost, but have been w/o the vehicle for almost a month now. Concerned this car will never be safe to drive.
July 2nd, 2014 at 3:26 pm
@Tabitha: Please visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/rid.html and fill out our Get Rid of Your Lemon form to determine if and how we can help.
July 23rd, 2014 at 5:32 pm
So I have a very weird problem with my 2008 Equinox. While driving a message appears on the dash that reads “SERVICE AIR BAGS”. Then within a few minutes the brake pedal tightens up, my speed decreases and then as I hit the gas pedal the RPM’s jump up to 4 or 5 and my speed continues to decrease. I end up pulling over and turning my car off for a few minutes. When I restart it everything is fine until the “Service AirBag” message appears again. Then we go through the motion again. It doesn’t happen everyday. The car shop had it for a few days and drove it around and nothing happened for them. They checked the computer and no codes. Any ideas????
July 24th, 2014 at 12:13 am
For all of you with 04-09 Equinox don’t replace your transmission… Take your vehicle to a professional transmission repair shop that is familiar with this transmission, not the dealer!! You need new linear solenoids in the valve body of the transmission, this can save you thousands on repairs. Google aw55-50 linear solenoid failure. You will find that this is common in Volvos and nissan as well with the same transmissions.
July 25th, 2014 at 12:21 am
Purchased a 2012 equinox on May 24th 2014. It’s still under factory warranty just got back out of the shop yesterday for the engine being replaced Today the front end feels like something is falling out when you hit the breaks. I’m so frustrated only made one payment and have already had this much trouble. Wish I could just get my money back
August 23rd, 2014 at 12:35 am
We have a 2010 Equinox automatic, and experiencing issues.
Last week, went for an oil change, and the dealership said that the alignment and shocks will have replaced. This week, in a matter of two days (first day, the vehicle didn’t seem right, didn’t sound like it was shifting right, and engine light went on), then the next day (on the way to the dealership) when accelerating to 40 – 60 km, the rpm’s were really high, and not shifting down. I seriously didn’t think I was going to make it to the dealership service department. Thankfully we still have an extended warranty. The dealership was looking into the problem, and found that when the car was put into reverse, the car would not move. Again, thankfully, we got it to the dealership, before that happened at home. They have told us that the (transmission) wave plate is cracked. The part has been ordered. To tell you the truth, our family, loves this vehicle. But by reading all of these posts, makes me think we have a lemon. We will be on our toes for any other problems.
August 27th, 2014 at 4:53 pm
Hello,
I have a 08 equinox sport with 140 thousand miles. I know it doesn’t fall under the lemon law guidelines. However, I had the transmission go out on me in 2010, was fixed. Transmission went out again in March of this year and I had to pay to get it fixed through Chevy. Again the transmission went out earlier this month and again. And now, two weeks later, the transmission is malfunctioning AGAIN!!! What are my options at this point?
Thanks
September 23rd, 2014 at 8:05 pm
Hi, a few months ago I purchased a 2012 chevy equinox from eddys Toyota. It’s been a nightmare. Immediately it started acting up felt like it wanted to stall and the timing chain was clanking real bad. I got a check engine light within a month and found out the camshaft as well as a few cylinoids needed replaced and the fuel pump. Anyways chevy fixed it for me under manufacturers warrenty but I’m still experiencing the same issues even new ones the transmission acts super laggy the car feels like it wants to stall the oil smells like fuel it’s making weird noises. Do I have a lemon law through chevy or Toyota is it to late? Keep in mind it’s been 4 months and I’ve put 6k miles on it.
October 1st, 2014 at 1:37 pm
@Deven: You may have a claim under Federal law. Please visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a firm in your state who can help you.
October 1st, 2014 at 5:08 pm
I have a 2010 Equinox brand new in 2010, at 70,000 miles had to replace the timing and water pump chain, at 98,000 miles had to rebuild the top end of the engine, at 102,000 the transmission broke while I was out town, 9 hours away from home, costing me $800 to get it home and $4600 for new trany. I have always been loyal to the American products but maybe it’s time for a change
October 2nd, 2014 at 7:47 pm
We purchased a 2009 Equinox Sport in April 2009. Vehicle was fine until July 2013 when the the transmission refused to go into gear. Vehicle had 70,000 miles. Local dealership did it want to do anything about it until I opened a ticket with GM and then they replaced the transmission. Note that the vehicle was well under warranty. In October 2013 we had issues with Check Engine light coming on and car running rough. Vehicle eventually died on side of road. Had to argue with same dealership (and open another ticket) to get them to repair it at 77,000 miles. Turns out the wave plate on clutch broke. There was a TSB about the issue that I pointed out to dealer when I was told that my oil was too thin and that had caused the issue. Started having issues 2 weeks ago with excessive vibration at speeds of 35MPh or so. Took it into same dealership and turns out it was torque converter that needs replacing. Vehicle has 91,000 miles and has been out of factory warranty 5 months. Dealer refuses to pay for repair because the new transmission warranty isn’t honored since it was replaced under the original vehicle warranty. This is the 3rd major issue in less than 18 months. I called back and inquired about the Goodwill policy and was informed that GM doesn’t have that any more. What are my next options?
Disgusted in Kentucky
October 10th, 2014 at 4:10 pm
Yikes, I wish there was something that can be done, I just found out my 2005 Equinox already needs a new transmission and it has about 60,000 miles. I can’t afford the repair or a new car. I bought this car brand new.
November 17th, 2014 at 6:03 pm
I have a 2006 Chevy Equinox and I have had two head gaskets blow out on the vehicle due to the radiator fluid becoming acidic at a certain point(or so the dealership told me), it blew out once at 80000 miles and again at 100,000 miles obviously it was not covered under warranty either time as the warranty had run out. I have also had numerous problems with the electrical system and I have had numerous issues with the vehicle overheating. After doing the head gasket job myself the second time and ensuring the vehicle was repaired correctly with the best parts, I still have problems with the vehicle overheating not to mention the check engine light coming on all of the time and problems with my air conditioner not functioning properly and the electrical system going haywire constantly. My family had always owned Chevrolet products however considering the multiple problems I’ve had with this vehicle and GM not returning any of my phone calls or letters written, I WILL NEVER PURCHASE ANOTHER CHEVY AS LONG AS I LIVE! ***CHEVROLET YOU SUCK***
November 18th, 2014 at 2:25 pm
In early 2010 my wife and I bought a new 2011 Chevrolet Equinox as we were expecting our first child and wanted to have a car we could depend on and have space for our family to grow. We have always bought GM vehicles because both of our fathers worked in GM as well as my grandparents so we have stayed loyal to the brand… up until this vehicle.
When we first bought this vehicle we noticed it was shifting weird and often would shift very hard from first to second gear, and second to third gear. We immediately called Hank Graff Chevrolet in Davison, Michigan and they said it’s just how the engine in that car shifts and the “eco button” also makes it shift this way which is part of the design, and not to worry. At this point we were a little concerned, but took them at their word since they should know how this vehicle operates.
We continued with this issue and commented on it daily as we drove until the car began to shift even harder to the point of our head’s pushing back as if we had a sports car and just hit the gas from a stop light, and experienced the kick-back. Also, when this issue became more problematic we would also approach a stop light and when waiting for the light to turn green you would hear a loud knocking noise in the rear as if someone was under our vehicle hitting the cargo underbody with a hammer.
We brought our car to the dealership and they were very short and rude with us and pretty much said it is normal and we are exaggerating the issue. They ended up reprogramming the computer and changing the timing chain which seemed like some serious repairs for a brand new car and issues that we were apparently overstating.
After several days of repairs we picked the Equinox back up and it was fine for a day or two then the hard shifting and knocking noise came back. Additionally, now when we go in reverse the Equinox also sounds like a diesel engine and it hops slightly with a VERY loud rattling noise. We called the dealership and let them know but it’s hard to bring it in for repairs on a weekly basis with a full-time job and a child to cart around. After several weeks we get a chance to bring the car in again and they do minimal recall work and nothing major saying they can’t reproduce the issue even through it was hardly test drove at that point.
Our day-to-day continues with a growing concern and frustration with our vehicle, but we continue on as if the issues will work themselves out because we don’t have time to keep bringing in this terribly unreliable vehicle. We end up going to get an oil change a few days later and all the techs’ are looking at our “new vehicle” with a lot of concern and notify us our transmission is leaking and how unusual it is for a car with this low of mileage and this new to already be leaking transmission fluid. With this information we have lost all hope in this car and expect very little to no support from the dealership or the “customer service” that we have been given from calling GM themselves.
We are now outside of our warranty and still dealing with the same issues we have had since day 1 with this car because the dealership can’t find out why all of these issues are happening and the GM “customer service” has given us no options on how to move forward other than “pay for an extended warranty” because they know this car is bad, but won’t help to rectify the situation they have put us in.
We just picked our 2011 Equinox back up from the dealership AGAIN today and they had to replace the Cam Shaft Actuators because “the timing was off which is causing the engine to run incorrectly”. This is the second time these parts have been replaced on this vehicle.
GM “Customer Service” has been contacted again and they were wanting to put all blame on the dealership without owning up to the issue that it’s the GM car that’s the issue, not the dealership that has to support the inferior product we have come to expect from GM. At this point we are waiting for a call back from GM about giving us “buy back assistance”. However, after googling about this car and the multiple issues a lot of people have faced with it, it looks like they are going to offer on average $1,500-$2,000 toward a new GM car so I can extend my payments out even further. The dealership has offered a trade-in value that is lower than the amount we owe on this vehicle.
The end result of us taking weeks of our lives, frustration, patience, and staying loyal to a brand is ending with GM essentially telling us “tough luck we sold you a defective car, but here is less money than you owe on your car to get a new one and start a new loan”. At this point I have told all of my GM -loyal family about this issue and they have all backed me and said they will never buy a GM vehicle even though they have retired from the company. It seems they are trying to rectify there image and become a more reliable brand, but it’s individual cases like this that will be the driving force to the end of an American brand.
Repair Recap:
February 2011 – 7,099 miles – Complaint of jerkiness while shifting. Weird shifting.
Action taken – Seat belt recall, nothing done concerning our complaint except charge us for an oil change.
November 2011 – 17,683 miles – Further shifting issues and chugs while driving. Loud ratting and grinding from under hood by engine. Knocking in back. Slow to take off from a stop. Has stalled 2 times driving.
Action taken – Reprogrammed engine control module. Said they couldn’t duplicate the rest.
April 2012 – 22,365 miles – Stalled more times. Knocking in engine and rattling. Still shifts incorrectly. Sputters and stalls while driving. Transmission leak.
Action taken – Replaced Cam Shaft Intake Actuator. Installed new insulator on fuel pump.
November 2012 – 31,530 miles – Vehicle shakes hard while driving and shifting. Service Engine light has started to come on. Has stalled more and still shifts hard. Transmission leak.
Action taken – Replaced High Pressure Fuel Pump.
June 2013 – 39,705 miles – Grinding when starting up. Bounces and loud while reversing. Lacks power accelerating and hard shifting. Idles rough when starting and at stop lights or idling. Transmission leak.
Action taken – Cam Shaft timing replacement. Reprogrammed ECM. Charged us for another unnecessary oil change.
May 2014 – 53,160 miles – Jumps and lurches while shifting between gears still. Still rattling and loud noises while driving and starting car. Stalls intermittently and RPM’s go very low without reason. Knocking still happening under the hood.
Action taken – Replaced Front Wheel Drive Shaft Seal. Replaced water pump. Repaired Balance Shaft Chain. On the phone was told they were replacing the cam shaft actuators again but I don’t see it on my detailed repair sheet?
November 19th, 2014 at 10:55 am
@Brad: You do not mention the state where you purchased your car. While the mileage may pose an obstacle, I do feel it would be worthwhile to discuss this matter with a lemon law lawyer. Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a firm that can help you in your area. I would not delay this. Do not rely on what other folks receive. With a lawyer, and the free legal representation that the law affords, most consumers do much better than when representing themselves.
November 21st, 2014 at 8:51 pm
My wife and I just purchased a 2011 chevy equinox from toyota dealership traded my 99 tahoe in on it. Was sold as is no warranty has 57k miles on the 6 th day have not even put gas in it yet and my 4 yr old son and wife are going 55 mph and it drops in first rpms max out and dies shes almost rear ended pushed off road then drove fine all the way to dealership they say they can not duplicate problem its fine and they had chevy place check it out. I was told I could buy waranty for 3k till 100000 miles is this warranty suppose to come with vehicle
November 30th, 2014 at 5:31 pm
My best advice to most of you is to check out your consumer fraud laws. I am suing Cody Chevrolet in Montpelier Vermont for not disclosing anyrepair orders to Carfax. Clearly the 2011 Chevy equinox is a lemon but Chevy will not recall the vehicle and stop producing them. The dealerships know this information and until you have a problem they will not do anything for you. When you buy a genuine GM certified car it is supposed to come with a detailed vehicle history mine did not that is why I’m able to sue for consumer fraud you should all check your paperwork and check your repair orders of your cars history against the Carfax please check your paperwork to see if you have a case to for consumer fraud itis a good place to start for people who do not have the luxury of the lemon law for buying a used vehicle.
December 16th, 2014 at 3:20 pm
While at stop lights my ’12 Equinox makes a jumping motion and continually the RPM will dance between 750 and 1000. It usually settles after 10 seconds of if I shift into Park. I am taking it in Monday for service. Car has 59,000 miles on it.
December 31st, 2014 at 7:46 am
I bought a 2011 Equinox almost exactly a year ago here in Florida. I’ve noticed it shifting a bit roughly from time to time but got the same “it’s because of the Eco-boost” story from several shops so I didn’t think too much about it. It just hit 70,000 miles last week. Yesterday on my way home from work I had to slow down almost to a stop in traffic. When I did the car began to jerk and buck and slipped into neutral. I had to cycle it through the gears several times to get it to drop into first gear. I made it across town to my dealership but only barely. By the time I got there it was randomly slipping in and out of neutral while driving, once or twice I heard it make a high pitched whining sound and about a mile from the dealership I lost 3rd gear completely. I limped that last mile at about 20mph in second gear with my flashers on. I had already called them so they knew I was coming. Fortunately the drive train warranty is still good on it but this really concerns me. On top of this mine also has the “increased tension in the steering” problem that is not a recall. I got a letter from Chevrolet, but there are no active recalls on my ride. I like my car but I’m starting to wish I’d stuck with my G6 GT or stepped outside of GM completely.
January 5th, 2015 at 4:03 pm
My wife and I purchased a used (4 cylinder) 2011 Chevy Equinox with 22k on it from Cargill Chev. in Putnam CT. After about 3 years, we have just under 60k on the engine and have had it in for numerous repairs since we bought it. We have noticed that the transmission seems to rev or skip several times a day when accelerating and shifting from 2nd the 3rd gear (automatic transmission), the engine will rev up to 3500-4000 rpms for a second or two and then it will catch gear again causing the rear wheels to chirp (AWD model), this is also accompanied by high pitched squeal noise from the engine. The first time we took it in, I test drove it with the Service Manager and could not replicate it. I took it in because the engine light had gone on and the code had to do with dirty oil/cam phasers out of sync. I mentioned to the service manager that it is also horrible on gas, only getting 21 mpg mixed driving. He said that I should reset the mpg feature every time I fill up my tank which is once a week, he also said that these engines burn a lot of oil so I should check the oil every time I gas up and also change it every 3,000 miles. This doesn’t seem right to me. Needless to say, they replaced the cam phasers, changed the oil and since then, I’ve had it back in twice in the past few months for the same engine code. Each time, they replaced the cam phasers, actuators and timing chains. The last time, before doing this, they called GM because they said they didn’t know what to do at this point and GM had them replace everything that they replaced the prior time, a couple of months ago! They also noticed that the exhaust manifold was cracked so they replaced that and the catalytic converter. Thankfully all of the repairs were covered under various service bulletins and under the 100k 10 year power train warranty. Once again, I am still having the same issues with the transmission revving but this time, no engine code. Vehicle seems to lack power as well. We are going to contact the dealer once again regarding these issues.
It is my understanding that because we bought the vehicle used, that it is not covered under state Lemon Laws, is this correct? At this point, short of trading it in (my morals say not to pass this problem along to another consumer) what recourse do we have?
January 9th, 2015 at 4:51 pm
Bought my equinox a couple years back. 2012 with 88k miles. When slowing down at (at say) a stop sign then I give it gas to go and it will jerk hard like it’s almost neutral dropping. Been to the dealer and of course they cannot recreate the issue. It does not happen all the time but reading the horror stories of other owners should I be concerned since I only have 12k left on my warranty?
January 12th, 2015 at 4:02 pm
@Colin: You may be entitled to monetary compensation to reflect the diminished value of the car through the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act. Please call 1 800 LEMON LAW (1 800 536 6652) for more information.
January 19th, 2015 at 10:47 pm
I bought a 2010 equinox in june 2013. In may i had issues w engine running rough n found gas was in my oil. They had to replace my tensioner pullies n my while fuel pump n hoses m seals. Then nov 2014 had issues w engine again check engine lights were on n 6 codes came up. They checked it n said had no oil n made me pay fir oul
Change when i had 23% oil life in it. They cleared codes n sent me on my way 1 min later lights came back on. Brought it back n then was told needs to come back in for service i asked whats wrong n they said need to rebuild motor.
Head gasket. Timing chain tensioners again pistons rings covers n a bunch of other stuff had back for 10 days n my husband noticed right away a ticking sound that was not there before the service. I checked my oil, n let me tell you that dip stick is horrable dip stick. I never saw one like this stupid one n the book does not explain hiw to read it. I had my husband check it n he smelled it and again now after my wngines rebuilt the oil has fuel in it thats gonna ruin the work they did. This is second time in 7 months. I hope it happends again after rhis fix then i can get gm on lemon law n get ride of rhis $$$ peice of garbage before my warrenty wears out in 20,000 more miles. It only has 56,000 on it. I
Bought w 34,000. N it only worth half of what i owe. Prob cause this car has lower value cause of the issues w them. I want to blow it up. Tomorrow it goes back to service. Second time this month. The service guy says this car is notorious for this problem. So there we have it.
My thought. Stick w ford. Chevy sucks. Praying they cant fix it.
February 9th, 2015 at 5:45 am
I bought my 2006 equinox in 2010. I have had no problems with it untell this last month first my passenger side axle had to be replaced twice within a week of eachother. Then my check engine light comes on and the code is throwing the egr valve and now just tonight my flipping transmission goes out wile I’m driving down the road.I don’t know what to do where to turn and my extended warranty went out on December 31st I’m so lost
March 18th, 2015 at 3:41 pm
Has anyone heard of any transmission complaints in the 2013 Equinox? Over the last few months I have noticed some inconsistencies between the transition of the gears while accelerating. It will rev up before finally catching the next gear. I’ve taken it back to the dealer 2 or 3 times now and they tell me they can’t duplicate it, but I haven’t gotten any documentation of this and I doubt they document my account. I just wonder if it’s a consistent thing like it seems to be with the 2011 model.
April 23rd, 2015 at 9:43 am
I have a 2015 equinox and at about 12000 I noticed lagging when shifting to second gear. They told me it was a loose radiator cap and returned to me. At 15000 miles now they are acting like I am crazy. This car not only is lagging but goes over 4000 rpm before shifting to second. I have an appt but they are claiming it sounds normal.
April 27th, 2015 at 3:39 pm
GM sent me a letter after I had repairs made on transmission. Gears 3-5-r went out. Cost me $1200. They are refunding me the money and extending the warrenty to 10 years 100,000 miles.
April 28th, 2015 at 6:17 pm
I bought my 2005 Chevy Equinox brand new in 2004 had no major problems with it until now, not e end at 80000 miles yet the car is jerking and bucking like crazy! Took it to Aamco Transmission specialist and was told it is the valve body and will cost me $1242.00, well since I have not had any major repairs done since I purchased the truck I am shelling out the money, I’m hoping to get a few more years out of it before I have to buy a new car! After reading all these reviews I know if and when I do purchase a new one, it won’t be a Chevy!
April 30th, 2015 at 10:35 pm
I would like to buy a Chevy Equinox 2008 FWD Train. It would be interesting to known if all the problems mention here concern the AWD Train Chevy and/or the FWD Train. I see only one or two person here specify the AWD Train? This mean all the other talk about FWD Train?
May 5th, 2015 at 2:10 pm
I have a 2013 equinox and it struggles to jump from 1st to second gear with the a/c on. Some helpful people seem to think the valve body needs fixing but why doesn’t gm do a recall when there’s so many that have the same problem? What a joke, never buying a chevy product again
May 6th, 2015 at 9:12 pm
182,000 miles tranny going out, car jerking and slipping n 1st gear. Car drives rough now. I already have a enough issues and now this. I wouldn’t wish this own anyone.
June 2nd, 2015 at 10:58 am
Bought a 2010 new. At 80,000 miles was going through 3 quarts of oil a week. The dealer told my wife that was normal oil consumption, I told her to tell the dealer I was not checking the oil between changes any more, they decided to rebuild the engine under warrantee. Now we are at 117,000 miles and the transmission just stops pulling, then after sitting a while it will pull again. Left the wife sitting in the middle of the road twice. She got it into the dealer and they told her it was the timing chain. They are lucky I could not reach them through the phone line. How stupid do they think people are, unreal.
June 15th, 2015 at 7:49 am
I have a 2006 equinox I have had to replace my left front wheel bearing three times in two years. This time they said I needed a new spindle and that’s what was causing it to go out. I have spent hundreds of dollars on this one issue and now my back brake drums are warped because if the wheel bearing going out. I’m angry because Chevy knows this is an issue and refuses to do anything about it. It could have locked up and crashed with my kids in the car! They have no soul.
July 17th, 2015 at 3:12 pm
Im reading all these horror stories about this vehicle and all I can say is whooooahhhh.
Ive owned my 2010 Chevy Equinox LT for 2 yrs, now its at the chevy dealer with a bad transmission and cracked manifold. Who knows what other major repairs are looming. I had the bucking and lunging in drive or reverse. Ive taken it two times before for other repairs. Had to replace my front rotors. it has 60K miles on it, I bought this with 53K used from Chevy 112 in Medford. I honestly think this vehicle wasnt serviced appropriately from the dealer prior to selling it.
I had it flatbed to the dealer thinking it was under warranty, I was told its not. Im not sure what to do at this point. Is there a recall on the transmissions for this model?
August 8th, 2015 at 6:41 pm
I have a 2010 Equinox LTZ and it has 106000 miles on it. Transmission died on 3/27. Bought a certified rebuilt from GM and had installed. Less then 10 days later transmission died again. Took it to a Chevy dealer and they jerked us around for 3+ weeks but finally fixed the car. On 8/5 transmission died again. Had it towed to different Chevy dealer and waiting on repair. Getting frustrated!
August 15th, 2015 at 1:10 am
I was thinking of getting a 2005 Chev Equinox. Now im just gonna save up and buy either Toyota Camry or Honda Civic.
September 7th, 2015 at 2:58 pm
I agree ^. I bought an Equinox also. It bucks while driving. Now I wish I would have bought a Toyota or Honda. I figure I have 2 more years to pay it off. I’ll keep driving it until it does and will then buy me a foreign car instead of American Made Junk.
September 23rd, 2015 at 3:24 pm
I purchased an 07 equinox used with 113,000 miles on it 2 weeks ago. The dealer told me the whole time that there was absolutely nothing wrong with this car. Three days after I brought it home, the transmission started lurching.
The dealership won’t do anything! I understand the little issues being my responsibility (key getting stuck, passenger airbag not working, rear windshield wiper randomly starting) but the transmission?!?! I haven’t even made my first payment on it and they won’t let me trade or take anything off the price I paid for it.
Not to mention the sprurting noise from behind the steering wheel. They bled the coolant system and said it was fixed but they only made it worse! Lord only knows what that might be caused by.
PLEASE: This is the first loan I’ve ever taken out on something and now I have to sink several more thousands of dollars and I haven’t even made the first payment yet! IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO????
September 25th, 2015 at 7:53 pm
2005 Chevy equinox, problem with traveling @ 60 and if i give the car gas to pass, the traction control light come on and car tries to cut back speed and i press the traction control the engine goes back to normal.
Very confusing
October 12th, 2015 at 12:17 am
I have a 2005 Equinox. Transmission went out at 100,000 miles.
October 20th, 2015 at 10:21 am
I bought a used 2011 Chevy equinox in Jan. of 2012 had 25k miles on it. I have had to do constant maintenance on this vehicle since. A week after driving it I noticed it shifted funny at certain speeds. Brought it in they “reset” the transmission.(warranty covered) By 2013 It was rusting on the inside of my car door.(not warranty covered) so still rusting away. At 97k miles i had to have engines pistons, fuel pump, multiple valves and timing belt replaced. Thank god the warranty was still good! i hit 106k miles and transmission has locked up wont shift out of 2nd gear and will not go in reverse. I have a case pending with Chevy as I have owned multiple cars and this one is the worst built one yet!
October 27th, 2015 at 7:02 pm
I have a 2010 Chevy Equinox, 4 cylinder FWD. I was the second owner of the vehicle when i purchased is in January 2012. The vehicle had roughly 20k miles on it that the previous owner had put on it within the 1 1/2 years they owned it. Since our purchase we have had issues with the timing belt, oil consumption which I repeatedly documented with the dealership for two years before they fixed it by rebuilding the engine 1 year ago. Last straw was yesterday when my transmission quit all together. Apparently my powertrain warranty expired this past May although my vehicle only has 68k miles now… I am frustrated and feel like there is nothing I can do although this car, to me, qualifies as a lemon.
November 5th, 2015 at 8:23 pm
I have a 2006 Equinox. This year I had to replace front suspension, front breaks, driver side wheel bearing,washer pump quite working so dealership hot wired it somehow, my fuse box is corroded and will cost 1200 to remove and repair. Last year my car wS blowing cold air in winter. There was a faulty door in the heating system 1100 to fix because they had to pull dash apart, just replaced stabilizer bar linkage on both side, new battery, driver seat heating element burned hole in my seat and coat, rear middle seatbelt locked up and I had to cut it off my nephew. Now I have some hum and vibration coming from driver side. I am all out of money to spend on this piece of shit car. I had a Toyota for ten years and put almost 300 thousand km on it and I think I only spent 2000 dollars in the whole ten years. I am still paying this one off. I will never buy gm again. If this is the shit they sell I will stick to Toyota. My wife’s Corolla has very few repairs. Aside from that Toyota plant in Cambridge employes something like 3000 people in the plant alone, not to mention the industry in that area providing machinery and robotics an services to the plant. Gm can go fuck themselves. Go to Mexico maybe the Mexicans will drive there piece of shit cars.
November 11th, 2015 at 5:04 pm
I Have a 2010 equinox with about 86,000 miles recently purchased.. The took car to dearler bcuz the check engine light came on.. The dealer said it was the oil pan. Two months later the engine light comes on again.. This time the car suddenly wouldnt go into reverse.I had car towed to dearler I am overly stressed about this car. The dealers quoted me $5000 to replace. I cant afford this im single parent . I believe the car dearler knew that the trans was going out.
December 9th, 2015 at 8:17 am
I have a 2010 Equinox 4cyl. The transmission froze up due to low transmission fluid. Filled up, now works perfectly. Not sure why dealership doesn’t check this fluid with each oil change I get. Will have to push them on that question. BTW, got a neighbor with a 2011 Toyota Corolla, had 3 times the problems I’ve had with my Equinox. But won’t complain about it because he doesn’t want others to think Toyota makes bad cars too. Kinda funny.
December 17th, 2015 at 3:58 pm
Bought used Chevy 2011 Equinox from Chevy dealership in Moon Twp. Nov.2015 with 70,000 mi. on it. Had less than month just made 1st pymt. on loan was going to family function on interstate 376 and could only go 30mph. had it towed to dealership have to wait 3wks. before they can even get to it. What’s that tell you????? Gave me loaner til then we’ll see what happens. Service fellow told me alot of problems with trannies in this 2011 model. Wow ,wish I had known previously wouldn’t had purchased it at all. I drive 3 grandchildren around and am concerned for safety issues.
December 17th, 2015 at 9:06 pm
I have a 2008 equinox,paid cash for it. The stabilink llght came on 2 days after I bought it. Had some jerking, sluggish take off. Then less than 2 yrs.later same issue. Now being told
I need a transtransmission and the engine light stays on ever since this problem occurred. When engine light came on 6 months ago took to the dealer they put a portal machine on it and the light went off and came back on a few days later. There is also a ticking sound under the hood
December 19th, 2015 at 10:09 pm
We have a 2010 Chevy Equinox…88,000miles and the transmission already died…Very disappointed in Chevy. We also had to replace AC condenser. The warranty is for 100,000 miles or 5 years but warranty expired in March. Terrible!
December 22nd, 2015 at 2:50 pm
I have a 2010 Chevy Equinox and at 74000 miles the transmission failed in 3rd gear and reverse. It happened suddenly when I was coming off an exit ramp on a major highway when i was pressing on gas but car was revving and barely moving. Had it towed to Chevy dealer to be quoted an outrageous amount to just diagnose issue, so it currently is at another mechanic getting repaired. This is absolutely ridiculous to have a new car with so many issues. Chevrolet needs to step up and repair this transmission issue. Just paid it off last month and now I will be out another $4,000 due to GM and crappy parts. I will never buy a GM product again.
December 23rd, 2015 at 9:47 am
While the Equinox body styling has the looks and catches the eye, the design, craftsmanship and quality is far below acceptable standard. I have a 2012 Equinox 100,000 miles. It sounds like it is on his last leg from every aspect. Very noisy driving. Had the 100,000 services completed and it sounds like every moving part is whining, rubbing, or grinding. The interior has always been noisy. Lots of plastic with lots of independet pieces rubbing constantly. Vibrations and rattles are endless. And the 4 cyclinder with Chevy’s bragging about transmission design to reach the highest gear as quickly as possible will drive you insane in city traffic. Just waiting for the tranny to say enough is enough. I believe in USA products but should’ve stuck with Ford. Far superior products in design and quality. That’s my soapbox. If it makes it to spring I’ll be back at Ford’s display floor.
January 22nd, 2016 at 7:44 pm
Purchased a 2010 equinox a month ago….. Yes a month ago, 5 weeks to be exact… 3 weeks in I begin to notice a slight wavering in the rpm when car was idle, then progressed to a much more noticeable waver accompanied by an ugly noise from under the hood. Things have now escalated and the car has stalled twice on me today alone. Stalling seems to be triggered by low rpm. Scheduled to drop my car off on Monday….y’all wish me luck!
January 28th, 2016 at 2:36 pm
my 2007 chevrolet runs great but now having tranny slipping too
February 4th, 2016 at 9:48 pm
I have a 2011 Equinox that has been nothing but a huge pain in my ass. When I first got it, it was recalled and some kind of actuators had to be replaced and it was in the shop for weeks and had to go back several times for this same issue. Fast forward 4 years and we get a recall about excessive oil use, which ours has, but it also had 122,000 and they weren’t covering anything over 120,000 Fast forward again to present day and the transmission is toast at 138,000 miles….no check engine light, no nothing…now we’re looking at several thousand dollars for repair. I will never, ever, own another Chevy product.
February 18th, 2016 at 6:12 am
I have a 2014 Equinox warranty of course ran out this is the second time the “drivetrain” and “stabalizer” light has come on. 1st time it was under warranty they said it was because the wiring was corroded, now its happening again. What causes this to happen and has anyone else ever had this problem?
February 25th, 2016 at 1:28 am
I have a 2011 Equinox with 119K Miles (I am the only owner) I drive a lot of highway miles. I am having slippage transmission issues. I have had issues at stop signs and stop lights where the car would slightly jerk but didn’t think too much about it as it was not every time and rarely. This happened almost from the 1st year I had it. I just chalked up to bad gas or something like that. Again it happened rarely. Now this time I cannot drive it as the transmisison is totally failing, so I took it to the dealer, but there ONLY option was to replace with re-manufactured transmission $4900 and they didn’t know how long it could be before they could get one. I am guessing these are hard to come by because other’s are having the same issue.
I have the car getting a 2nd opinion from a Transmission place. We will see what they think.
I really liked this car and hope to get this resolved.
February 29th, 2016 at 12:50 pm
Like #176 Amanda said, I have a 2010 Chevy Equinox at 88,000 miles and it slipped out of gear while going up a hill. I was able to get to my destination that was close by but I couldn’t reverse into a parking space. Towed it to a dealership and they quoted me $160 just to look at it and another $4,000 to fix the transmission. I towed it to a mechanic that fixed the problem. Well so I thought. Every now and then it will stop shifting into 3rd gear. I have to pull over, let it rest and try it again. But then again other times it will work fine. I’m not happy with this or GM.
March 9th, 2016 at 7:19 am
Just another upset Chevy customer here, my 2005 Chevy Equinox is also bucking and jerking and it’s mostly in and out of second gear. Chevy should at minimum come up with a solution. I Spend too much on this cars engine as it is.
April 1st, 2016 at 8:43 am
My equinox 2014 jerks. But it has a salvage title. Could you still help?
April 5th, 2016 at 2:48 pm
I have a 2011 Equinox with 108k miles and the AC compressor went out in Oct and since it was heading into winter we didnt get it fixed right away. I just spent $800 on a new compressor 2 weeks ago. I then get a letter from Chevy telling me about the piston ring issue with oil consumption. So I just took it up to the dealer and they performed an oil change and started the oil consumption test. 2 days later and after only 40 miles after it was at the dealer my transmission has gone completely out and has to be replaced. Coincidence? Not sure how to feel about it just yet.
April 11th, 2016 at 12:48 pm
2011 Equinox … almost 78,000 miles bought it new in 2011… driving this weekend.. starting losing power and revving hard at 25 mph’s and then sounding like it skipped gears… took it to Dealer now saying it needs a new transmission $3,600….. this is crazy!
April 22nd, 2016 at 2:25 pm
@Uziel: Is it under GM warranty?
April 28th, 2016 at 10:55 am
Purchased a 2011 Chevy Equinox LTZ with 67,500 miles a week ago. We test drove it twice and we even drove it over the weekend before bringing it back and signing the papers. It drove fine, I just thought it ran a little loud and I asked to have them listen to it when they detailed it and they said it sounded normal. 3 days ago I noticed it was shifting a little funny, yesterday, way worse. It jolts when accelerating, especially 1st and 2nd gear. When cruising. its fine, but as soon as I take my foot off accelerator, it jumps and delays a sec before decelerating. I’ve already called to have it looked at. They asked if I had purchased an extended warranty…why would I need an extended warranty if I just bought it a week ago and it has original warranty? I hope this isn’t anything major, especially since we just got it.
April 30th, 2016 at 12:19 am
In 2013 we purchased a 2010 Equinox. It has been one problem after another! I’ll skip the small stuff, but the engine blew in 2015. Then the transmission in 2016. These problems are new to people on this site, and there not new to GM. This car is such an engineering disaster, you would think they would just stop making them! GM unlike, GMC refuses to send out a proper Recall. There really needs to be a class action suit. I am submitting all the proper forms for reimbursement, but I’m not holding my breath. It will take forever, but it the dealer refuses reimbursement, I will send it to corporate GM; the last step will be an attorney!!
May 7th, 2016 at 8:32 am
I bought my 2010 chevy equinox in 2011 used! It had 12000 miles on it. I had it in the shop at 30000 miles and they rebuilt part of the motor timing chains, piston etc. Then they did the same thing at 60000 and 90000 now my 120000 warranty is off and it is doing it again. Along with a.c. issues . what a pike of shit
May 11th, 2016 at 7:59 pm
2011 Chevy Equinox, at about 15K we took it in for stopping and jerking, they stated they fixed the issue. Fast forward to 72K, at stop light, went to accelerate and the car goes nowhere.. Transmission flatlined, 4K to fix. Never again will I buy a Chevy.. I wish there was some recourse for this,.
June 13th, 2016 at 3:40 pm
Bought my 2011 equinox 2 years ago and now mechanic says transmission is toasted, $3800 to replace… wow
June 27th, 2016 at 5:24 pm
I bought a 2011 Equinox a year ago. I put serious miles on a car so used is a better way for me to go this one had 84000 . Within the first month I needed the timing chain replaced, I also noticed that I had to do an oil change every 5000 miles due to oil loss …yep I needed a new engine but they did not do it until 110000 miles. I now have 122000 miles and the transmission is not shifting correctly.. REALLY! I live in Michigan so I guess that I can’t cry lemon but there should be a law with selling vehicles they know to be lemons…
June 30th, 2016 at 8:44 pm
I have a 2014 Chevy Equinox. I live in Texas and went to St. Louis, Mo and my car wouldn’t crack. Kept throwing code for power steering and traction control and battery charging sensor. I have 63000 miles on it. It has acts like it wants to die when stopped at red lights with the ac unit on. Has anyone ever had these problems
July 1st, 2016 at 2:40 pm
My daughters 2010 Equinox, with about 55,000 miles completely lost use of the transmission this past weekend. Estimated to be about $3,000 to replace.
July 26th, 2016 at 6:31 am
I have a 2007 Chevy Equinox and was on vacation in VA and have had No Problems with vehicle. Had my air conditioner serviced for first time in car and only 73,000 miles. I go to drive vehicle and Stabilitrac service and traction control service errors come up and I contact a local Chevy Dealership (Haley Auto Mall Danville,VA) they say code reads you need a new transmission.. I get code and call my dealership in NY and they say code reads 1st gear solenoid. I ask them to replace both 1st gear solenoid and 459.00 later they say car was all fixed. I leave their shop and not only 10miles down road the same codes come right back up. I call them and ask what to do and they say oh well Told you it was a transmission problem and hang up on me… I had to trailer the vehicle back to NY and now it sits in my Chevy dealership and now I am being told it is a Transmission wiring harness which they say is 1100.00 and it might fix problem… I am so upset. I am a disabled single women who needs help…
July 29th, 2016 at 1:11 am
First off…..Chevy man since birth. My dad never had anything but a chevy and nor have I. That is until now. My wife bought a 2013 Equinox with around 80k on it. Now at just over 108,000 the transmission acts up. Firestone had it twice for a total of 4 days, Dealership had it twice for 8 days counting weekend. They charge me 500 and put a new CV axle in, called and said it was ready. Picked it up and it was just like it was when it got there…..but with a new 500 CV axle for no reason. After some convincing words on my part, the popular decision was for me not to ever step foot back in their shop. Yep…showed mine pretty good but all within earshot knew exactly how I felt. Now the POS is at a transmission shop awaiting a transmission. Dealership quoted me $3400, found one with 45,000 miles for $800 and $400 to put it in. F Chevrolet. There are 3 in my name all listed for sale and will never own another chevy product. Pitiful
August 4th, 2016 at 4:48 pm
I purchased a used 2007 Chevy Equinox in 2014 and a few months ago I started feeling the jerking, pulling, and start up issues. My mechanic says it’s a transmission problem. I can’t afford to have the transmission replaced and frankly wouldn’t after seeing all these post that I can relate to. Why try to fix it when it seems the problem is reoccurring??? It has about 122,000 miles on it so I’m sure I’m stuck even though the company is aware of these issues. I think I’ll just drive it until it completely goes and then purchase a Honda. Now this is a dependable car!!! Oh forgot to mention I had and have the front passenger window issue as well. It initially started on the drivers side window, had that resolved cost about $270. Now the passenger one is stuck. Won’t invest $300 again! America made garbage
August 11th, 2016 at 1:47 am
My 74 year old brother bought his 2008 Equinox NEW it has less than 120,000 miles on it and it is the biggest heap of CRAP Chevrolet invented!!!!
1. window washer fluid motor quit
2, drivers door window wont roll down motor works but is broke from the window.
3. drivers door has to be locked and unlocked manually
4. turn signal gear is broke off to reset signal after making a turn for both right and left turn.
5. POWER STEERING WENT OUT COSTING $2500.00 TO FIX
6. TRANSMISSION STARTS JERKING WHEN HITTING 45 MPH DEALERSHIP INFORMED US OF THE TRANSMISSIONWHEN WE TOOK IN IN FOR A RECALL ON A DEFECTIVE GAS MODUAL THAT THEY NEVER REPLACED SAYING THE PART WAS OK. THEY DROVE IT AND SAID THAT ITS THE TRANSMISSION AND ASKED $500.00 TO RUN A DIAGNOSTIC.
7. THE STABLE LINK LIGHT PERIODICALLY COMES ON SAYING TO SERVICE IT.
8. THE TOP OF THE BRAKE LIGHT ON THE BACK HATCH IS GONE WHERE IT FELL OFF AT SOME POINT
THIS VEHICLE IS WAS BOUGHT NEW AND IS OWNED BY AN ELDERLY MAN. IT HAS NOT BEEN ABUSED AND HAS HAD REGULAR OIL CHANGES.
WE HAVE ALWAYS BEEN A CHEVROLET FAMILY AFTER THIS NIGHTMARE HE WAS SOLD FORD IS LOOKING PRETTY DAMN GOOD!!!!!
August 23rd, 2016 at 10:30 am
Purchased 2007 Chevy Equinox new from the Chevy Dealer. The only car I have ever bought and wished I had left it on the lot.
It has 81,000 miles on it now. The traction Control and ABS lights are on all the time now. The gas mileage sucks. I get about 14-1/2 in the local area. I have friends that own Silverado and F-150 pickups that get better gas mileage than I do.
My family has been driving a Chevy since 1936. My Brother switched to a Toyota and is happy with it.
I will not buy another Chevy.
August 27th, 2016 at 6:00 pm
I have a 2010 chevy Equinox..purchased 2013…6mo after I got it. It ran hot while idling air conditioner wouldn’t work, warranty covered the repair.. 2014 transmission went out, warranty expiredi I had to pay 1800 to get repaired, June 2016 compressor went out, August 2016 rpm went out, I made it to my street by coasting down the street but never made it to the house
September 20th, 2016 at 3:53 pm
This is horrible. Reading just the three way up at the top to realize how much of my 2010 equinox piece of sht it is. Because I put in over $9000 worth of work…. Have to mention…. There was a recall, don’t remember for what… But NO PROBLEMS with my truck till after I took it to the dealer for that. But I was driving one day and I felt my car jerk as I was turning,, about 85,000 at the time,, nd also felt like I lost somewhat of my pwr steering. I drive like that for 3 days and I’m on the highway that day and it breaks down… SOOOO QUIET TOO!!!,,, That I didn’t have any idea wtf happened. Anyway, take it to dealer, biggest mistake. My block went right through my motor. …..nd then other things that were “found out later”. So mad I paid that much nd it still runs like a 98 explorer
October 31st, 2016 at 9:39 am
My husband and I bought a 2011Chevy Equinox in Feb. 2014. My husband started to feel the “jerking” and hard shifting so we took it to our mechanic to have the transmission fluid flushed and he was unable to because the fluid was BURNT. He recommended we call the dealership and find out about our warranty because we only have 89,000 miles on the vehicle. Of course the dealership says our warranty expired and our coverage protection plan just expired at 77,334 miles. we are still paying on the loan for our vehicle and can’t afford to replace the transmission. This is absolutely insane that the transmission would go out on a vehicle that is only 5 years old and even more insane that the dealership isn’t going to cover the repair!!!!!!! Stay away from Chevy!!!!!
November 10th, 2016 at 9:20 am
Have a 2009 Equinox Sport that I loved, but it has been one issue after another since I bought it used in 2014. It had about 68000 miles when I bought it and about 5 months after purchasing I had to replace a solenoid, the water pump, the belt, and some other parts due to a leak that ruined other items. This bill was about $1000. Then about 4 month later I was accelerating onto the interstate and heard a loud pop, but no apparent issues. Get home and then drive across town to my daughters and notice some lagging in the shifting. Try to back up out of driveway and very loud whine and reverse wont engage. Do some research and take to transmission shop, there is a recall on the 3,5,R but GM won’t honor because the vehicle is a rebuilt due to passenger side damage. So that was a $2200 bill. About 3 months later start having a jerking when accelerating from a stop and take to shop and they determine either transmission or timing. Back to transmission shop they say it is in drive train, then to another mechanic shop and they can’t fix say something in motor.Take to Chevrolet dealership about the jerking and they charge $100 for diagnostic test and come back with needing a wheel bearing, differential, spark plugs issue, and O2 sensor for about $4000 in repairs. When I go back to them for more information on the diagnostic they claim they have no record of what the issues were so they offer to put on again at no charge, but they get several different codes this time. Good Grief!!! I get a mechanic to replace the spark plugs and O2 sensor (as indicated by code), but no difference in the jerking. Trying to decide now what to do. I can’t afford to pay the estimated $1200-$1500 to fix the timing chain when no guarantee that will fix the problem, but can’t sell or trade in the car with an obvious jerk in it. It is fine when it gets beyond about 40-45 mph. So frustrated, and I too am done with Chevrolet after researching these issues and seeing how little help they have provided to me and others AND the fact that they are having the same issues with the Equinox for many manufactured years. Really sad business for a old and previously reputable company.
December 3rd, 2016 at 10:43 am
I have a 2010 Equinox with 132000 km on it Wave plate broke and destroyed transmission total repair cost was $4010.21 Transmission shop told me wave plate is not strong enough from factory and should be s recall. My GM days are over!!!
January 3rd, 2017 at 1:45 pm
2009 equinox.
Trans never serviced 🙁
Minor bucks once in a while.
120,000 miles.
Never a problem.
Wheel air pressure sensors all going out.
Internal batteries died.
Costco replaced for 50 bucks each.
Had my dumbass brother serviced the Trans like I told him, car could have seen 200k
January 27th, 2017 at 1:51 pm
2008 chevy Equinox bought with 80,0000 miles and purchased extened warratny. Car makes jerking at 45-50 mph. Took to dealership no codes showed up. They say its trasnmison and offered
to take car of it beacuse of warranty.1. can pay $1500.00 for brand new transmision 3yr/100,000 2. rebuilt 12 months/30,000 miles.
Dont have money for brand new so chose rebuilt. Now tell me its acutally used with 80,0000 miles. It has been two weeks and be hang up missing pats. Now they say requires filter and dealership/waranty/parts ppeopl all blaiming each other. Now they with still fix problem but I hav to pay for car rental about 8 days $50.00 a day. I have to pay for fliud to be put in which is $22 dollars a gallon. Not shure if should follow through now that the problem could be something else and next week they could call with another problem and I have to spend more money. Any advise please!
February 17th, 2017 at 9:13 pm
My wife and I have a 2011 Chevy Equinox, with less than 70000 miles the transmission completely went out a few months out of warranty. We paid over $2000 to have the transmission rebuilt. The car has been burning oil since it was purchased (about a quart every 1000 miles. We just finished taking it 4 times for oil consumption test and now are waiting for replacement parts. Today I noticed that the transmission is leaking fluid, less than 5000 miles after having it rebuilt. Any advise appreciated.
February 20th, 2017 at 12:31 pm
@William: There should be a parts warranty on the rebuild. Contact the repair facility.
February 26th, 2017 at 1:31 pm
I have a 2006 Chevrolet Equinox I have had to replace the heater the turn signal switch the turn signals the ABS sensor wheel bearings tie rod ends and that still did not fix the problem of the grinding also had to have new brakes and new rotors put on it still don’t know what’s wrong with it after dumping over $2,000 into it Chevrolet have a recall on the heater but pulled it right before my heater went completely out because they said wait until it goes completely out before you take it into the dealership I’m not ready to take my back to the dealership and put it right through the damn window I think Chevrolet should do something about this there piece of s*** cars that caused this problem I don’t have the money to keep repairing it and I can’t afford to buy another car
April 12th, 2017 at 2:40 pm
2010 Equinox with 52k miles. Car was working perfectly fine then boom, the tranny is defective. No way this is due to wear and tear. This is a manufacturer issue! Unreliable and will not purchase again. There needs to be a recall!!
April 16th, 2017 at 8:59 am
Bought a new 2011 Equinox in October 2011. Occasionally would hesitate like it didn’t get gas but didn’t think much of it. Really babied the car and kept miles off of it……it only has 47500 to date. This past sept was driving and the car just shut off while driving. So at roughly 46000 miles my car needed a transmission. When I asked the repair shop (not GM dealer cuz waarranty had ended) the mechanic said “this model and year are known for transmission issues”. So after a month in the shop and $2500’later I get my car back. Only then 2 weeks later then requiring a new muffler system $450; and now front end grinding (not the brakes). So much for keeping the miles off my car and taking care of it so that I would have it for years to come. My only question is —–now that it is 2017 and since I never took it back to the dealer (had issues with a previous car I bought from them) would I have a lemon law case?? And if so, what would my compensation be since I bought new in 2011’and its now 2017—-and how do the arrorneys get paid to represent ??
April 18th, 2017 at 3:05 pm
@Chris: sadly without any repairs under warranty, we would not be able to go after GM for recourse. We would need at least three repairs under warranty.
May 24th, 2017 at 1:34 pm
2010 Chevy Equinox, transmission break down at 88,000 miles. Shame on the Chevy quality. Dealer asked 4500$ to replace it with a remanufactured unit.
June 5th, 2017 at 3:49 pm
What a complete and utter disappointment this Chevy Equinox 2011 has been. I bought this car new in the late model year in 2011. So essentially for being driven this car is 6 years old. I basically had the engine rebuilt under the power train warranty. I had this hunk of junk in the shop so many times, as they wittled away at one issue to another until finally the engine was rebuilt. After about a year of having it, I have always felt the “lag” time between pushing the gas and going. Well low and behold now the transmission went out. The dealership wants a measly $4,700 to replace. CHEVY YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED TO PUT THIS PRODUCT OUT TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE. You want us to buy American made, with your proud Chevy name, then we buy it, and you give us junk. Not to mention the rust spots already on the back hatch.
Is there a possibility of a class action lawsuit, since we have been duped and given the run around, at our enormous expense, for a vehicle that obviously has manufacturing defects?
June 7th, 2017 at 1:50 pm
Tranny just went on mine…. figuring out what I should do…. can’t find a solid recall on my year.
High pressure fuel pump went earlier this year and local shop dropped the tank and replaced it for me. $1000 ish. Found out yesterday Googling about my tranny that the fuel pump was recalled. >:-0. Frustrating!!!!
I got a new motor a couple years ago after they had the vehicle a month plus, and replace everything on the motor just to finally put a whole new one in. Frustrating!!!!
2010 Chevy equinox 2.4L AWD
do I have a case?
June 7th, 2017 at 1:51 pm
^^^^^^^^^^^^
Less that 70,000 miles
June 14th, 2017 at 12:31 pm
My mom just bought a 2011 Chevy equinox in October 2016. 2 weeks later thermostat went out. 4 months later needed to have part of the exhaust replaced. 2 months later now the air conditioner has quit working, seems like one thing after another!!!! For someone on a fixed income, you go but something you think is reliable and have nothing but problems! Amy advise?
June 18th, 2017 at 2:53 am
i have a 2012 chevy equinox and timing chain/belt shot!! this was in may of 2016, just barely still in warranty. not 3 months later another check engine light came on with same code but different problem says chevy dealer. transmission has been jerking since i got it.(basically a 1 owner vehicle, my stepdad had just gotten it and got sick with cancer and gave it to me) they are pieces of C***!!!!
June 28th, 2017 at 8:03 pm
Our ’09 Equinox started doing this as soon as the car hit 40 MPH and accelerating. After 93,000 miles and repeated electrical problems, we said, “Enough is enough.” It turned out to be the transmission, and I was told I was looking at $3,200 to fix it. The car got traded a couple of days later.
July 23rd, 2017 at 12:47 pm
I have a 2010 Equinox with 78000 miles on and it broke. To fix it I need a new transmission which will cost me $4000…..Unbelievable.
July 31st, 2017 at 12:29 am
I have a 2006 Chevrolet Equinox bought from L&K Auto Sales pout of Rossville , Georgia which is a buy here pay here. They knew of the issues with it said it was an egr valve but never fixed it. Been rattling and shaking and surging but they kept saying bad egr valve. Went less than five miles from home and I had no rpm pressure but reverse works fine.
August 4th, 2017 at 12:19 pm
We purchased a used Equinox 2010 2 years ago. After the first year of our ownership, the engine went out..complete replacement with NEW engine because a rebuild/used wouldn’t fit. 2 weeks ago, just after the 2 year anniversary of our ownership, the transmission imploded. There was 175,000 miles on it. NEW transmission because we still owe on this POS car. Need the newest trans with the longest warranty so I can pay it off. I will never buy another Chevy again. Never.
August 30th, 2017 at 12:22 pm
bought chevy equinox 2011 in feb of 2016 since 2 /2017 been having transmission problems hard jerking and slowing down clanging noisies and sounds like I’m in neutral reving up motor. slips in gears and now no reversr only I gear on ssdisability and no warranty and no money to fix
gm said take to dealer to check out already did it they said do it again then they would tell me how much they would help me pay for to ix
NOW LISTEN I AM PISSED THEY HAVE BEEN SELLING THESE VEHICLES AND GETTING AWAY WITH IT ALL THESE YEARS FROM FIRST YEAR MADE TILL NOW. WE SHOULA ALL FILE A HUGE LAWSUIT TOGETHER AND MAKE THEM REIMBURSE US FOR THEM OR PAY TO FIX THEM AND /OR GIVE US NEW WARRANTY ON THEM FOR 3 YEARS AT LEAST WITH REPAIR .WHAT DO YOU SAY ? I WILL OR WE CAN GO THERE AND HAVE A MEETING TO SETTLE OUT OF COURT.COMPLAINING DOESNT GET IT . ACTION DOES. IM READY TO GO TO GM HOW ABOUT YOU? IM SERIOS. THIS IS BULL. THEY SHOULD BE FINED FOR THIS WE ARE PAYING THE PRICE TOO. ARE YOU WITH ME?
October 1st, 2017 at 9:18 pm
purchased a 2011 chevy pre-owned from dealer in 2014 with 36.000 miles, keeps stalling @ lights, had to tow it 3 times, replaced a valve then car would start but refused to shift into gear, then it would shift drove it a couple miles and it died had it towed mind you aaa only lets you tow 5 times a year, the dealer tells me my extended warrenty has expired a few months back and its 4,000 for a rebuilt transmission, i called GM consumer care they wanted the final bill and told me sometimes when they got things apart they find other things wrong but he instructed me to get everything fixed and the dealer would send him a final bill, well he was right the manifold and camshaft were shot also so now i wait to see if Gm is going to help us, the dealer said its usually 15% of parts,,,but GM customer care told me that people need to wait for any recalls thru the dept of highway and safety,, so i filed a complaint got a letter back in 3 days stating theres no new recalls on any equinoxes,,,THATS BECAUSE NO ONE KNOWS THATS WHERE YOU HAVE TO FILE YOUR COMPLAINT NOT HERE AND IF THEY GET ENOUGH COMPLAINTS THEY WILL RECALL THEM, SO PEOPLE FILE YOUR COMPLAINT TO THE DEPT OF HIGHWAY AND SAFETY THANKYOU!!!!
October 19th, 2017 at 1:35 pm
so i bought my 2012 equinox april 2016 for the last two months my equinox been jerking.when i bought the suv with 43,000 miles now with 84,500 miles yes i do drive hwy and it even took it to wisconsin. am hoping that when i take it in to the dealership everything its ok.(am afraid that it will not)how does it work with the warranty.(single mom do not know anything about vehicles)
November 8th, 2017 at 3:05 pm
I purchased a 2011 Chevy Equinox with around 30k miles on it in 2013. It now has around 75k miles on it and my transmission totally went up. I got a couple different people to look at it, and even the chevy dealership says it needs to be replaced. Fortunately, GMC agreed to cover half the expenses, but it will still cost around $2100. I am too upside down on it to be able to get a different car, but I can tell you whenever I am able…I will not do Chevy again after reading the rest of the reviews.
November 8th, 2017 at 8:13 pm
Bought a 2011 Chevy equinox in Feb 2017. And as of Nov 2017 at 74,000+ miles the transmission is blown, I did my normal service needs and had no idea the transmission was bad..
November 22nd, 2017 at 3:16 pm
my chevy was bucking last year, took it in not sure what they did but it was fine. I beleive that i only had an oil change. Just started bucking again. Why d I have to pay and bring it in 3 times if it’s a known problem with the vehicle. I drive a 2009 equinox and have about 64000 miles on it. Although I bought it new in 2009, I’m still driving the same car, so obviously another car payment is an issue. Why don’t companies stand by their products. I refuse to believe, based on this site alone, that there has not been a number of complaints that the company is not aware of the problem.
December 15th, 2017 at 8:56 pm
I HAD BOUGHT A 2005 EQUINOX AND MY TRANSMISSION SOUND LIKE ITS GONNA GO OUT .I CAN HEAR IT AFTER READING ALL THE COMMENTS I DIDNT KNOW ABOUT A HOW BAD THIS CAR WAS MY GOD IM A SINGLE DAD OF 5 KIDS I ALREADY HAVE SO MUCH ON MY PLATE NOW THIS THIS CAR IS MY ONLY WAY TO WORK IM SO PISS OFF RIGHT NOW I WISH I KNOW ABOUT THIS SOONER
CHEVY AMERICAN MADE MY ASS
January 20th, 2018 at 5:24 pm
I bought a 2012 Equinox in March of 2016 & I live in PA, It only had 32,000 miles. In 2017 it started using oil. after going through the oil consumption crap from the dealer I was told that part of the engine needed to be repaired. It was covered under the warranty. Then about 3 months later, after the warranty expired. the engine started making noises (sounds like a diesel engine). The fan motor works intermittently with the check engine code of The dealer I bought the cars said they should have fixed that sensor when replacing the other engine parts. Now the car stalls when sitting idle for more than 30 seconds. Also the tire pressure lights have come on a couple of times and when we checked the tire pressure they were fine. Is my car eligible for the PA lemon Law for used cars?
February 5th, 2018 at 6:33 pm
@Pam: PA does not have a used car lemon law but Federal law may apply if you were back three times under warranty for the issue. Give us a call at 1 800 536 6652 to discuss your situation.
February 9th, 2018 at 12:26 pm
I bought my 2011 in 2012 with about 35k miles on, while under warranty had new pistons put in and timing belt. My transmission blew out July 2017 and warranty was out so cost me $3500 to put in a new one. Now the car is jumping or lunging forward when you stop or put in park, took to dealer and they are not sure why it’s doing that, he replaced the fuel pump but that didn’t fix the problem. This car has me in the hole and that is why I have not sold it, still open money on it and cant get anything out of the car and I put money down on the car when I bought it.
March 18th, 2018 at 1:36 pm
Purchased my 2010 GMC Terrain new in 2009.Car ran OK until developing trans slippage. Thought nothing of it until complete failure . Vehical towed to dealer and was told thans had to rebuilt or replaced at a sub-stantal out of pocket cost .At 85 years of age I assumed that this would be my last new car purchase.
March 30th, 2018 at 6:49 pm
I have taken my 2011 equinox over five times because it would all of a sudden stall out. Everytime I was told nothing was wrong with it. Now here I am at not even 50,000 miles and the transmission in it is gone. I am at a loss!
April 14th, 2018 at 10:33 pm
Bought our 2013 Equinox brand new and never really had any problems with it until today. Still have time left on the warranty but are over the mileage (75,000). Transmission went out today. We would seriously consider getting another Equinox, but am really curious to see what’s going to happen as far as trade in value when we go to trade. Car is meticulously kept and looks brand new. Only 3 payments left on the thing and thought about trading it a few months ago. Wish we had.
April 23rd, 2018 at 2:49 am
I have a 2007 Chevy exquinox
And the vehicle has 161003 miles and just started 2 days ago the jurking and like a pull all of a sudden I kinda fill like it has something to do with my transmission that it is giving out could that be what it is.
April 29th, 2018 at 6:48 pm
I bought a 2005 Equinox in 2004. It now has 193,000 miles on and I’ve done towing with it also. I think the tranny is going out with vibrations on acceleration. However, I’ve changed the fluid twice by removing the side cover, draining the fluid and refilling it since the filter on these Chinese trannys have the filter inside the transmission. Yikes! . Maybe this is how it’s still going. My comment is I wonder how many have paid for a tranny job that didn’t need it. Here’s why I say that. Several weeks ago my car was acting very strange. Pulling away from traffic lights it made a sound like something was coming apart. Driving down the road it made like surging. It was not the tranny but the right front brake caliber. I replaced it and the hose and the problem went away. The hoses sometimes go bad also. The caliber was not releasing.
April 29th, 2018 at 6:51 pm
On comment #237 I forgot to mention that when one of the front calibers don’t retract it also messes up the traction control. TX.
May 4th, 2018 at 2:56 pm
Bought a brand new 2012 Equinox in 02/12. At 78,000 miles (4/29/18) my transmission goes out. Many dollars later I just got my car back and the scary thing is the new transmission is GM. Called GM just to ask about why at 78,000 this would happen and had it happened elsewhere. Was told there were no recalls or alerts and I said that’s not what I asked for. I wanted to know how many complaints they had had. Should have figured no straight answer from them so now I am reading a lot of complaints here and other sights. Been a Chevy driver for over 40 years but if I outlive this car I doubt I will buy another Chevy product.
June 13th, 2018 at 2:17 pm
Ibhabe a 2005 chevy equinox LT its sunmer in cincinnati truck run fine early morning but aeound 330 400pm while driving temp guage goes up to the half way mark and truck starts to get sluggish jumping jerking sometimes i cant go over 20mph please HELP
July 12th, 2018 at 10:35 pm
have a 2011 chevy equinox engine blew up when it was still under warranty. now transmission is gone at 100,000 miles. have been a loyal chevy owner for over 30 yrs. very unhappy with this equinox that I took very good care of. at a lost on what to do.
July 16th, 2018 at 1:52 pm
@Billy: Have you reached out to GM corporate? The age is an issue here but they may do something to keep your loyalty.
July 24th, 2018 at 10:28 am
our 2015 equinox transmission went out at 23000 miles in full warranty gm will fix got loaner understand that the transmission is flawed it is six speed gm fixes but want do nothing about flawed trans
August 2nd, 2018 at 3:57 am
I have a 2011 Equinox that I purchased as by going to work vehicle about 3.5 years ago. In January, the transmission went out. It has less than 100k miles on it and Chevrolet will not do anything. I’ve read enough to know that this is an issue a lot of people have. A transmission should last more than 100k miles.
October 10th, 2018 at 9:28 pm
I just bought a 2009 used Chevy Equinox I had it for 2 weeks and it’s been in the shop since then. I dont want the vehicle any longer since the Transmission is no good! Does it fall under the lemon law?
October 11th, 2018 at 1:58 pm
@Laurie: The age would prevent that but it may be worth it to contact your attorney general’s office to further explore your rights.
October 31st, 2018 at 8:36 am
Hi we have a 2012 Equinox bought it brand new at the end of 2011 we really haven’t had any problems until now it’s my wife’s work car drives on the freeway all the time has 185000 miles and she’s been trying me that car has been a little jerky and now all of a sudden transmission is dead and we take care of our vehicles never had anything g like this happen before and I’m a true chevy guy now I’ll thinking what the heck to do and I’m not going to spend $3500 to fix it I just dont know about chevy vehicles anymore not built like they use to.
November 19th, 2018 at 3:51 pm
I purchased my 2017 Equinox in 2016. I have 42000 miles on it and the first time it lunged forward I thought I was crazy. Took it to the dealership. I was told they cannot find anything wrong…to bring it back when/if the engine light comes on. Now they keep calling me to trade up to a 2018, but after reading all these comments I want something other than an Equinox.
January 3rd, 2019 at 3:05 pm
My 2010 Equinox just hit 100k miles – I have had nothing but problems with this car since buying it from a dealer used 2.5 years ago. – A/C compressor went out less than a year after having it, it has had multiple issues with various sensors, oxygen sensor, exhaust system, ABS tracking system, recall on the engine – had the o-rings, pistons changed – yeah that did nothing for the oil burning, timing chain has also been replaced and now out of nowhere with no signs at all the transmission just goes out driving down the highway?!?!? $4500 repair bill and I still own 9k on the car! It’s not even worth $4500 nor can I afford to fix it. Looks like this is a pretty common issue with this POS car regardless of the year.
March 3rd, 2019 at 10:50 pm
I am having the same issues as everyone else. I have a 2010 Chevy equinox and the transmission was replaced two years ago. Now it looks like I’ll have to get another. No one does anything about it. I do not have money to keep buying trannys or anything else. I think we all need to file a claim against Chevy . I still owe 10,000 on this junk
Never again
March 30th, 2019 at 9:33 am
While sitting at a red light yesterday afternoon at 3:30 pm, Friday March 29, 2019, my 2012 Equinox revved and lunged forward hitting a truck on the bumper. Minor damage to his vehicle but still I am responsible. Anyone else have this problem or was there a recall notice that we did not receive. Anyone have any similar problems to this we only have 109,000 kms on the vehicle and have a trip planned for NYC in May. Taking to a non-Chevrolet Garage to have them check it out Monday. Please email me any suggestions or if you know of a recall. This was the scariest thing that has ever happened to me. Thank goodness no one was hurt.
April 9th, 2019 at 11:18 pm
My wife got a 2018 Chevy equinox 6speed it has 27000 miles and we have had it for about a month and half and my first time driving it was yesterday well I noticed the tranny feels super weird anytime u hit the gas it feels like it’s jerking and at low speed like 20 or below it feels like it’s lugging thing is when she asked the dealer about warranty she said it didt come with one but Chevy gives a 30 day warranty well here it is a month and a half later and idk what to do
June 9th, 2019 at 4:46 am
CAR IS HORRIBLE, ONE ISSUE AFTER ANOTHER. IT DOESN’T STOP!!! WHEN IS A CLASS ACTION SUIT GOING TO COME ABOUT? THIS IS EXHAUSTING AND THE CAR IS WORTH NOTHING FOR RESALE, IF YOU WANT TO BE HONEST.
June 13th, 2019 at 12:54 pm
@Therese: You would do MUCH better with an individual Lemon Law or breach of warranty claim than a class action. Please call us at 800 536 6652 to discuss your claim and how we could help.
June 28th, 2019 at 1:55 am
I noticed my car making a weird noise a week ago. Then it started jerking forward when I would stop and it seemed like it was stuck in gear. I called our local Chevy dealership and they couldn’t get me in until today. I didn’t drive it since last week. I have three little kids so I was honestly afraid to drive it. Well I’m on my way to the dealership today and I kid you not it completely stops changing gears and won’t move in the middle of traffic. I get a tow and get to the dealership. The service guy looks at me and tells me, “well your car moves forward and backwards now.” I’m still waiting to hear back from them to see what the verdict is. Also I’m still under warranty but he said since we changed our own oil and we did our own tire rotations that it could be void. I have no freaking idea what to do. It’s a 2015 Chevy equinox 1lt with 36k miles on it.
July 22nd, 2019 at 1:03 am
So I have had my 2010 Equinox LTZ parked for a little over a year as I have been trying to deal with this company. When we bought the vehicle out right back in 2012 it only had 18000 miles on it. We did have to deal with the oil consumption issue immediately out the gate and Chevy did their part and replaced the motor. Fast forward to a little over a year ago. Im in the middle of traffic on my way home and my transmission goes out on me. Would not shift passed 2nd gear. Almost caused a major accident. Finally made it to my home and parked it. Started it back up and joy…it wouldnt go into reverse either. I have done alot of research and this is a known issue Chevy will not stand behind on poor quality hardware. I was told to have it towed in and have a diagnostic done on it which all would have to come out of pocket. So let’s do some math here. $100 one way for towing and another $200 for the diagnostic just for them to tell me they wont stand behind their product, and then another $100 to get it back home. In pricing the fix I am looking at about $4500. This is completly unacceptable as the vehicle had just hit 50,000 miles when all this happened. Anyone else with this issue? Or any incite would be greatly appreciated. I could understand if the vehicle was close to or at 100k miles but again. This all happened as my vehicle just hit 50k miles.
August 27th, 2019 at 8:05 am
I have a 2011 Chevy Equinox which needed to have the transmission replaced after 71,000 miles. thankfully I have a extended GM warranty so a new gm transmission was put in by the dealer.
After 14 months and 11,000 miles , there is slippage when deceleration.
September 25th, 2019 at 1:42 pm
I have a 2014 equinox with 97k miles I just had the transmission repaired under the powertrain Warranty because it was shifting hard between 1st and 2nd gear I had it back for 3 weeks and then took it back because it would still shift hard every once in a while (about 10 times during the 3 weeks) they couldn’t recreate it so I took it back. It’s been 1 week and it has shifted hard twice already. What can I do if the dealership is saying they can’t recreate it?
October 2nd, 2019 at 6:05 pm
I have a 2010 equinox with 94000 this car has been nothing but a money pit. Motor,transmission, ticking, burning oil intake and exhaust sensors and more car sounds horrible. I have taken it to the chevy dealer and they tell me nothing is wrong with it and just drive it. DO NOT BUY AN EQUINOX ABSOLUTELY JUNK
October 17th, 2019 at 8:33 pm
I have a 2010 equinox with 90,000 miles. Bought new. It ran the 1st 20K miles fine, then it was one problem after the other. It stated jerking and had a lag in speed. Dealer recalls. A rod in the transmission first had to be replaced. At around 45K the on-board computer started to go nuts. Dealership was not much help, they didn’t have decent mechanics available. Key fob lost compatibility and would turn over as the onboard wouldn’t recognize it, the AC and defrost was constantly going out (probably at least 6 times). LCD digitizer on center console was going out and ghosting. Around 75K sensors upon sensors started going out. Check engine light + tire lights on. All tire sensors replaced. Muffler was plastic and had a bad design = replaced. Rear back up camera went out. The worst was since around 75k to 90k (now) was the lack of acceleration. Transmission fluid turned black fast. Mechanic changed gas tank pressure sensor and tried to slowly change over the fluid so it wouldn’t shock the transmission. did fine and then the other day the transmission completely went out. Got towed in and the bad news came today. I’ve had a lot cars. Loved my Trailblazer and that is why I bought this, but never have I had such a lemon money pit of a car. At this point it’s a scrapper. Super leery of buying a Chevy or GMC from this point forward.
October 22nd, 2019 at 1:25 pm
@Bryan Nelson – I had this happen while I was out of town camping and my 35R wave plate was cracked. It was covered under a recall through Chevy.
October 22nd, 2019 at 1:32 pm
I have a 2008 Equinox Sport and it has been been a pain in my butt since I took it off the lot. I bought it with around 30,000 miles back in 2012 and it currently has almost 93,000. If it wasn’t paid off and didn’t want a car payment I would ditch it.
From timing chains, problems with the steering wheel, every electrical problem (I have replaced a window assembly and 3 of the 4 door lock actuators. I have replaced the back latch assembly. I have to replace the 4th door lock actuator.)
My sunroof leaks so I can’t take it to a car wash without a lap full of water. The water runs through my overhead lights into the shifter. Currently have another leak and not sure if it is sunroof or something else when it rains. Water is running out from under my glovebox and soaking the floor.
My 35R wave plate cracked while I was out of town camping, however there was a recall for this so I didn’t have to pay for it. Car wouldn’t go into reverse and stopped shifting 3rd and 5th gear.
My stabilitrak sensor keeps going off as well as the air bag service.
Now it looks like I’m burning oil as I was 2 quarts low at 3,000 miles and I have never been low on oil.
Headlights have so much moisture in them that they don’t work well so need to replace those.
Multiple other issues that I can’t recall but seriously the worst car I have ever owned.
November 5th, 2019 at 6:46 pm
I purchased an 07 Chevy Equinox with 188,000 miles on it. Two days after purchasing it the check engine light came on. AutoZone said it was Canister purge valve. Replaced it 3 times the check engine light is still on. I replaced the gas cap as well. Then at the end of July my transfer case went out. Ever since my transmission is not shifting properly. My truck is burning oil. Help
December 6th, 2019 at 7:55 am
I’ve had my ,2005 equinox about ,,6 months or so and the transmission jerks u so hard
December 6th, 2019 at 7:57 am
It just want stop jerkying I took it to the garage and they said it was the transmission
December 27th, 2019 at 12:59 pm
I have an Equinox that was purchased brand new in Dec 2016. Currently there are 86000 miles on the vehicle. About a month ago I was parking and the car lunged forward. It was the first time it happened. Took it in for oil change and tire rotation on schedule. The same day after I picked it up the transmission went out. Was told the transmission was only covered for 60000 miles. With so many complaints why can’t the government provide assistance in getting these faulty transmissions off the market?
January 7th, 2020 at 11:50 am
Bought 2008 awd equinox at chevy dealer after someone forfeited car. They had installed s new transmission and gave a 12 thousand mile warranty and awesome service. Had it checked by 2 mechanics it recieved a clean bill of health before purchasing no one mentioned anything about the problems i see here. Reached 49000 miles on new transmission and went to mechanic this morning. They are diagnosing problem now. My gut says transition. Had an oil change 2wks ago with tire rotation at a national chain service car felt different within an hr of leaving. Had it checked but no one found anything. Car freaked at 65mph and I immediately turned around to mechanic whinning in rear end last mile.. We’ll see
January 13th, 2020 at 10:58 am
Well it turns out it was the transmission so the dealer is rebuilding on their dime. So this will be its third trani in under a 110,000 miles. I bougt this one because i did my. Initial research none of this showed up. I originally did not want an equinox because I didn’t trust 3.4l motor this has a 3.6. I drive alot so I expect to replace parts as mileage racks up but motor and transmission are why i buy a brand. Chevy your letting us down.
February 26th, 2020 at 8:30 pm
I purchased a 2011 Chevy Equinox in November of 2018, about a month ago, I felt the car was kicking and jerking when I tried to accelerate. Last week, picked my wife up from work, on the way to pick her up, stopped at a red light, when the light changed, I stepped on the gas, vehicle would go over 20 mpg. I was able to get my wife and make it home with the hazards on, pulled into driveway, went to back up, rolled down the driveway. No reverse, towed to Dealer its taken a week and still don’t have it back
March 14th, 2020 at 5:13 am
Bought a 2010 equinox in 2016
It had about 55k miles on it
Had an issue with engine idling rough,
I pride myself in being a gear head and a grease monkey
But since it was still under warranty i let dealer look at it ,
Glad i did ,
Turns out ” what i believe ALOT OC YOUR ISSUE ON THIS FORUM ARE DUE TO
Here’s what was explained to me by what i believe to be an honest service manager
There was a plunger in the fuel pump valve that was sticking and causing to much fuel presure and the engine was getting way to much fuel
This is where the engine chugging and jerking was coming from
Well so much fuel that it had washed the cylinders and wore the piston rings down hence letting fuel passed the pistons and the engine oil level was going up
! Then he explained that that brought oil viscosity down and that wears the chrome molley off of the timing chain and gears wearing them down , letting the timing chain stretch and throw the engine timing off !
This all made sense to me since like i said ive been a gear head since a teenager
So i said ” since its under warranty what are you gonna do about it ”
Well chevy gave us an extended 60,000 mile warranty
They replaced the fuel pump, timing chain and gears , gave it a fresh oil change , and reset all the codes that had come up from the bad oil and misfires
Took it home and felt well taken care of , the end !
Just kidding well after researching our new warrenty
I found out that the only way thing our extended 60k mile warranty would cover is ” anything inside the engine that could be affected by having gas in the oil,
Well i have rebuilt engines before
And i know all internals of an engine
So i knew at that point that not only should they have replaced the chain and gears but they should have rebuilt the entire engine , the cam bearings, rod bearings, main bearings , pushrods , pistons and rings , valves and guides in the heads
All these components should have been replaced at the initial repair but i was told thats all chevy would pay for at the moment because all other components were still in tolerance and working properly!
Well at that point i felt lucky that they were footing the bill and at that time it seemed like they were helping us out with the extra warranty ,
Other than my wife being without her car for a couple weeks ,
Got it back
Seemed fine for a couple months check engine light back on and with our extra warranty, “back to the dealer she goes ”
This time it was oxygen sensors !
Ok so i know they read exhaust fumes
And i know they tell the computer how to mix the fuel and air intake
So i felt those screwed up from the excess gas burning and / or not burning offand fouling the o2 sensors out causing them to send bad info to the computer and screwing air and guel mixture all up,
So they try telling me that
NOPE !
o2 sensors aren’t inside the engine so those wont be
Covered under our new 60k warrent
And heres where they got me
While changing my o2 sensor
They noticed that my exhaust manifold was cracked and leaking ,
Well i Said thats gotta be covered by the warrenty right ??
He said I’m afraid not !
So i bitched about that but was only able to get them to cover labor cost labor was paid so that ordeal cost a lil under 8 hundred
This is where they tried to break it off up in me lol
When i ho to pick ut up
He tells me ” you might wanna get your a/c looked at sometime , the service teck tells the service manager that
After the first full day of our car being there and up on the lift
When he came in the next morning to resume repairs on our vehicle he noticed some a/c refrigerant on the floor under it , and since it had a leak somewhere
It would need repaired before they would be able to finish the car
I said well fix it
He said i was going to be charged for am ac condenser and to charge the system with how ever much freon it holds plus labor
This is the point where i almost lost my shyt !
I asked the sevice manager to call in the Main dealership manager and the owner if possible,
He said why ? I asked him if they had cameras in their sevice bays he said yes
Then i said because when i drove this car over here to have the initial work done
I used the air conditioner the entire drive there
and back to what i was saying earlier
I know alot about cars and i know the pressure switch on the air conditioning sysem will not allow it to work if it doesn’t have enough freon and oil in the sysem to make up that switch
So i said i wanna watch the entire video footage of the bay my equinox was sitting in while it was here
The service manager and dealership manager asked me why ?
I said because i believe the sevice tech.broke the ac condenser and when those systems pop theres a big green mist in the air and that would be very easily seen on camera
Long story longer they tried to play me and got caught
Or the service tech screwed up and didnt wanna get in trouble
But they took it back for 2 more days and fixed the a/c at no additional cost to me !!!!
Now to address all these transmission problems
Most all of these problems start after Bout 30k miles or more
Nothing worse for a transmission than being made with made with crappy soft metal gears and designing it to be unserviceable , atleast on our 2010 only way to change the filter im told is to pull the transmission and split the case ” that has to be the shittiest design I’ve ever seen !
I have a very bad feeling that i justed screwd up today !
My wife noticed a few drips of trans fluid in our driveway
I found that the transmission cooler lines were leaking
Rust holes in both lines where their held in a plastic clamp om the back of the fan shroud ” lower left corner ”
Well we are about 2k miles past our 120 k mile warrenty that wouldnt have covered that anyways
So i order both lines new from parts dept at that dealer
When i seen how dark the transmission fluid was i wNted to replace it and thats when i found out you can only flush it out and replace fluid
Well i watched a video on how to do it
And flushed it out good untill it was nice and red fluid is all that was coming back out during the flush ?
After flushing several times and probably 5 gallons at 30 bux gallon , its all clean and up to the proper operating fluid level
Now reading this forum i hope i havent fuked up our transmission by draining and flushing out that black very very burnt smelling fluid and putting in all new fluid without being able to get to that filer ?
If my wife leaves for work tomorrow and doesn’t make it there
Im just gonna pack my shit and roll out
Fingers crossed and I’ll check back in with an update
October 6th, 2020 at 3:52 am
Seems to me that the equinox transmission has some issues..itt also seems to me that if more of you drove a manual transmission you wouldn’t have these problems.