Top 5 Problems: Chevy Equinox SUV Second Generation 2010-17

Top 5 Problems Chevy Equinox! The Chevy Equinox isn't a bad vehicle, but like all vehicles, there are some issues you may face as it ages. In this video, Andy runs down the top 5 problems you, as an owner, buyer, or service provider, may face when dealing with the 2nd generation Chevy Equinox, which includes model years 2010 to 2017.

0:00 Top Problems Chevy Equinox 2nd Gen 2010-17
0:34 Timing Chain (V6)
2:50 Oil Consumption (I4)
4:05 VVT Solenoid P0010/P0011
5:17 Throttle Body and Pedal P2135/P2138
6:20 Evap Codes

This process should be similar on the following vehicles:
2010 Chevrolet Equinox
2011 Chevrolet Equinox
2012 Chevrolet Equinox
2013 Chevrolet Equinox
2014 Chevrolet Equinox
2015 Chevrolet Equinox
2016 Chevrolet Equinox
2017 Chevrolet Equinox

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[AAuto]

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[jsingh]

I have a friend that is a GM mechanic and one thing he says with these to help avoid timing chain issues is to NEVER go off of the oil life monitor on these cars. Just change your oil every 3000-5000 regardless of what the oil life monitor says.

[lindsayadams]

I have a 2014 Equinox LT and I have had every one of these problems you’ve addressed. Super frustrating to have all these issues considering I’ve only had it for about 3 years. If I didn’t love it as much as I do I would have gotten rid of it, but it’s really nice on the inside and it’s smooth ride makes it nice and comfortable to drive long distances!!

Thanks for all the information you guys have put out there!! You’ve helped me many times!!

[beatsbyelle]

I am the owner of a 2015 Chevy Equinox and I have experienced stalling and shutting off in traffic, figured out through Google that it was the air intake valve. I’m currently experiencing my check engine light on due to the solenoid valve needing to be fixed. Thank you for this video, I learned a lot about my vehicle.

[deere]

We owned a 2011 and it was one of the most reliable cars we ever owned. However, we had to trade it because of oil usage. I changed my own oil at 5000 miles with M1 but it made no difference. GM said going by our VIN number, our car didn't fall into the category for piston replacement even though it consumed a quart every 1200 miles.

[Geekella]

The way you present the information in this video is harmonious with my learning style and I'm incredibly thankful for this clearly laid out information!

[brenda]

I’ve been lucky with my 2015 Equinox. Purchased new. Currently 125, 000. Oil changed every 5, 000 miles. Just 2 weeks ago I had two tire sensors changed and the resonator on the exhaust systems needed replaced.Mostly highway driving so I’m just now needing front brakes at next oil change. Been a great car.

[isaacloewen]

I have a 2015 Equinox, i really like it and so far it has been reliable, 117000kms on it now. One thing i did notice is that when i changed engine oil according to Chevys specs (10, 000kms) some crud or grit maybe call it grime would build up on the end of the dipstick, this started by the 2nd to 3rd year. Once i noticed this and had heard that people were rebuilding them at 150, 000 or so even 120, 000 i started changing my engine oil at 5000kms or approx 55 engine hrs, (it has an engine hr clock in the computer). some say it being over paranoid or spending money for nothing BUT if i can get more life out of it, make it last longer the money i spend on oil changes will be a lot cheaper than an engine job. Anyway, just some info i wanted to pass along, Thanks.

[davidguardado]

I have a 2011 LTZ Chevy Equinox with 145, 000 miles with the V6. I’m the only owner of the SUV. I have change the oil only when the on board system gets to 20%, save’s me money. The only two major problems I’ve had is the alternator and the battery. This weekend I will changing the rear shocks and the front struts. The car has been great and no major issues. Plan on passing it down to my son when the dealership’s has inventory on new cars…some day.

[billro]

As usual you guys do a great service to us viewers. I find your videos VERY helpful. Thank you.

[terrellwright]

This video is spot on.. I recently replaced the Intake and Exhaust solenoids and during the oil change, noticed an oil leak. I got under and cleaned things up to see where it was coming from. It seemed to be coming from the EXACT spot you pointed in your example. Thanks...

[paulmazz]

I have a 2014 4cyl. Love the car. Just hit 130k & going strong. Holding off until next year & will be getting either an Equinox or Blazer EV…Being born & raised in a garage I am a maintenance fanatic. It didn’t start using oil until about 75K. Drives me crazy because I see no evidence of burning nor leaks. Just check it every 1st of the month & top it off.

[scarletx]

I have a 2015, 2.4 engine, less than 47, 000 miles. The timing chain literally chewed up the top bracket. Replaced it and next day started stalling, didn't want to go, and kept trying to die. Got it to my mechanic amd chain jumped causing a whole side of lifters to be in pieces just sitting in my engine. These vehicles should be recalled. I've found numourous complaints on these cars.

[oldrabidus]

For the timing chain, I highly recommend premium synthetic oil. Synthetic oil is a superior lubricant, if you can keep your timing chain cooler using better lubricant, then it will not stretch as much. Remember, heat/friction causes things to expand, thus keep things cooler they will not stretch as much via thermal expansion.

[darlenebennett]

I’m sorry to hear about your problems with Equinox, I have a2015 Equinox 6 cylinder & only replaced the battery this yr. I get oil changed regularly & am happy with it 6 yrs this month. My only complaint is after 2008 Impala, the Equinox uses more gas!

[djlalokc]

Can we all agree now these days card companies are focusing on sensors backup cameras all these fancy things accept a good engine in a good transmission literally there are trash I drive a 2005 Honda Pilot with 300 thousand miles on it still strong and I'm going to drive until falls apart

[mph]

2:51 There is a TSB on PCV blockage. TSB 14882. Blockage of the pcv system causes excessive crankcase pressure and can blow out the rear main seal. The intake needs to be removed and the port checked for blockage. I have also seen pcv blockages cause major oil consumption.

[SkypowerwithKarl]

One word of caution. Only use the manual up/down shift feature for descending a steep hill not for performance driving. No, it’s not like the up/down shift you find on a Camaro or Corvette steering wheel. Let the automatic do it, otherwise sooner or later the computer will get confused and drop it down a few grears HARD and damage the transmission! Manual mode=easy on the right foot! (2014, 3.6L AWD)

[rbmx]

I feel like I got a gem when I purchased my 2015 Equinox I4. Doesn’t burn oil and I’ve actually never had a problem with it. I normally take it to the track and always run premium. Only problem I’ve ever had is an exhaust manifold leak and am going to do the repair soon. Overall for me this has been an amazing car.

[melanieweaver]

2014, owned 2 months, been in shop now 4x!!! Warranty covered first 3 issues but now, what you explained in # 4 issue in the video, the check engine light came on as well as "reduced power engine". Drives ok, but when coming to a stop it wants to die. Very similar to what it did the 3rd time it was in the shop but apparently now they say this is a sensory issue not covered on the 2 warranties. I already know they are full of it & sold me a pretty lemon, but now I have to pay $390 for a sensory problem less than 2 months after purchased & 2 weeks after dealership had it fixing a very similar issue....wish these people were forced to fix the problems they knew the car had. It is not okay. Sorry for the rant...good video was hoping you spoke of my issue & you did...curious if I was told correct on pricing but thank you for your videos!!