Owners have filed 845 complaints
about the 2015 Chevrolet Equinox with NHTSA between 2015 and 2026.
The largest single group is the windows, mirrors & wipers.
Across this model's run it ranks 11 of 22 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 73
Against the median year of the Chevrolet Equinox. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 40
7.7% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 28
17% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2015 compares with every other Chevrolet Equinox
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Body
836.4%
Windshield Wiper/Washer
627.3%
Motor
313.6%
Floor MAT
14.5%
SRS Malfunction Warning Lamp/Light
14.5%
Automatic Emergency Braking
14.5%
Warnings
14.5%
Rear Window Wiper/Washer
14.5%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
163.1%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
224.3%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
234.4%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
6412.4%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
14127.3%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
12323.8%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
10820.9%
150,000+ miles
203.9%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Jul 2015peak 25Aug 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2015 Chevrolet Equinox
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
EA19005Opened 13 Dec 2019Closed 28 Nov 2022VISIBILITY
Front Wiper Transmission Inoperative
On December 13, 2019, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) upgraded RQ18-002 to an Engineering Analysis (EA19-005) to further assess the MY2010-2016 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain windshield wiper failures. Due to a prior recall, 16V-582, addressing this issue in the MY2013 subject vehicles, MY2013 was not included in the analysis. To date, ODI had received 998 complaints with allegations of the front windshield wiper failing in adverse whether conditions, while the vehicle was in motion.General Motors (GM) initiated Safety Recall 16V-582 on August 3, 2016 to address windshield wiper f...
RQ18002Opened 2 Nov 2018Closed 19 Dec 2019VISIBILITY
Windshield Wiper Transmission Failure
On November 2, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Recall Query (RQ18-002) to assess the scope of Recall 16V-582.General Motors (GM) initiated Safety Recall 16V-582 on August 3, 2016 to address windshield wiper failure in the Model Year (MY) 2013 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain. Failures were attributed to water and debris intrusion into the windshield wiper assembly ball joints, leading to excessive wear and eventual detachment of the affected ball joint with an attendant loss of windshield wiper function. The recall remedy addressed these conditions with the installati...
Recalls on the 2015 Chevrolet Equinox
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
22V165000
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014-2015 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles. The ball joints in the windshield wiper module may corrode, causing one or both windshield wipers to fail.
Risk: Inoperative windshield wipers can reduce visibility in certain driving conditions, increasing the risk of a crash.
15V666000
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015 Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac XTS, Chevrolet Camaro, Equinox, Malibu, and GMC Terrain vehicles. The affected vehicles have front seat-mounted side impact air bags whose inflator may rupture upon its deployment.
Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of one or both of the side impact air bags, the air bag's inflator may rupture and the air bag may not properly inflate. The rupture could cause metal fragments to strike the vehicle occupants, potentially resulting in serious injury or death. Additionally, if the air bag does not properly inflate, the driver or passenger is at an increased risk of injury.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 20194205,327 units in Canada
Other
Issue: This recall is for aftermarket replacement rear window glass produced by Vitro Automotriz. Certain rear window glass may not have been properly tempered. If the window breaks, the glass may separate into large pieces instead of very small ones. Note: This is a voluntary recall that is not being conducted under the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Safety Risk: Glass that breaks in to large pieces could create a risk of injury. Corrective Actions: The company will notify consumers by mail and instruct them to inspect the designation code marked on the rear window glass. Products affected by this recall have the designation “DOT 287” along with the lettering “VMR” (Replacement Market) and a date code that is before July 2019. This information is printed on the bottom corner of the glass. Consumers should contact Vitro's customer service at 1-412-995-6457 or argbacklites@vitro.com to arrange for replacement of the glass.
Recall 201813715,611 units in Canada
Visual System
In certain vehicles, water may drain from the windshield cowl area onto the windshield wiper transmission link joints. Over time, this could result in corrosion and/or wear to the joint, which could result in the separation of the wiper link ball from its corresponding socket. If separation were to occur, the windshield wipers could become inoperative, which could limit the driver's visibility under certain operating conditions and increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will relocate drain holes in the windshield cowl and install a wiper module with revised joints. Note: This is an expansion of recall 2016-318 to include vehicles originally sold or registered in the province of British Columbia.
Recall 2016318141,407 units in Canada
Visual System
In certain vehicles registered and operated in areas where road salt is used on the roadways during winter months for extended time periods (Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland-Labrador), water may drain from the windshield cowl area onto one of the windshield wiper transmission link joints. Over time, this could result in corrosion and/or wear to the joint, which could result in the separation of the wiper link ball from its corresponding socket. If separation were to occur, the windshield wipers could become inoperative, which could limit the driver’s visibility under certain operating conditions which may increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will relocate drain holes in the windshield cowl and install a wiper module with revised joints.
Recall 201548114 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, front seat-mounted side impact airbag modules may contain a defect which, in the event of an airbag deployment, can cause airbag inflator components to separate and be propelled into the interior compartment, possibly striking occupants. It is also possible that the airbag may inflate only partially, or not at all, in the event of a crash. If the airbag components separate and are propelled into the interior compartment during deployment in a crash, or the airbag does not inflate, there may be an increased risk of injury to vehicle occupants. Correction: Dealers will replace affected side airbag modules.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Aneth, UTFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
When I was driving down the street, I noticed smoke coming from the hood then flames . I parked off to the side of the road and open the door and took off running away from the vehicle. Loosing everything clothes, phones , jewelry important documents. I paid off the vehicle. Was happy that for once in my life I did something good until that happen so please help on what to do . I know I didn't pay off the SUV for nothing.
NHTSA complaint #11705238 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Aneth, UTFire
ENGINE
When I was driving down the street, I noticed smoke coming from the hood then flames . I parked off to the side of the road and open the door and took off running away from the vehicle. Loosing everything clothes, phones , jewelry important documents. I paid off the vehicle. Was happy that for once in my life I did something good until that happen so please help on what to do . I know I didn't pay off the SUV for nothing.
NHTSA complaint #11705238 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Aneth, UTFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
When I was driving down the street, I noticed smoke coming from the hood then flames . I parked off to the side of the road and open the door and took off running away from the vehicle. Loosing everything clothes, phones , jewelry important documents. I paid off the vehicle. Was happy that for once in my life I did something good until that happen so please help on what to do . I know I didn't pay off the SUV for nothing.
NHTSA complaint #11705238 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Kansas City, MOCrash
AIR BAGS
Hello, on September 5, 2025 I was driving my 2015 Chevy equinox. I was in a collision while driving my 2015 equinox going at a speed of 60 mph on a highway. On the day of the collision i hit a cargo truck that was carrying vehicles an it completely destroyed the front of my 2015 chevy equinox despite the severity of the impact. None of the airbags deployed. Fortunately me and my daughter did not sustain any injuries but I agree strongly that air bags should have deployed by the severity and location of the impact. This could have been more dangerous if someone else had been in the vehicle or if the wreck was slightly worse. My vehicle was viewed by the police at scene but no one else. There was no warning lights or messages prior to the accident. I am submitting this report because I believe the airbag system may have failed and I wanna make sure this is investigated I still have the vehicle and can provide photos and further details if needed.
NHTSA complaint #11689173 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lewisville, TXCrash
AIR BAGS
Car received a front impact and airbags did not deploy despite the alert on the dash saying “service airbags” immediately after collision. Seat belts engaged though.
NHTSA complaint #11560493 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Brownstown, MI1 injured
AIR BAGS
Drivers seat back rest air bag randomly deployed when I was in park, in my driveway taking my seat belt. Bruised my arm/ side of body pretty good. I had no idea how that could happen however, I connected my scanner tool to the car and come to find out I had 7 air bag/srs codes. After that happened all of my seat belts locked up, and per the scanner, it says a few other air bags have deployed but they haven't. This happened a while ago, (wife's car) and I haven't had time to reach out about it. I still drive it just to work and back but I disconnected the srs module in fear of the air bags the scanner tool said deployed WILL deploy while I'm driving. No previous codes or air bag light were shown before that occurred along with no previous repairs or modifications at the time were done besides regular maintenence. Hasn't been inspected but the light is still on, they're hard codes that can't be cleared, and the deployed air bag/seat back cover is still present.
NHTSA complaint #11517238 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Bloomington, IN
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1. High Pressure Fuel Pump, and yes. 2. Car will stall out unless I put it into neutral, shakes on shut down and sometimes starts scary fast. With the car caring my children in a busy town this is a HUGE safety hazard 3. No, but has been inspected by multiple mechanics. Got a tune up in May of 2026 problem subsided and back now. Numerous people have problems with this specific model of car and the HPFP. 4.PO0172 code, but that is the only code that has been persistent. No other known problems with the car. I have reached out to GM because there is no recall on my VIN number for the High Pressure Fuel Pump, but numerous Facebook groups for "Equinox Problems" have this issue and I would consider that a manufacturing problem of these Models (any year). Some people with the 2010 models had recalls, some newer but I have the same EXACT issue they are having but no Recall as of yet. I just want my issues to be known and addressed
NHTSA complaint #11754559 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Chula Vista, CA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Front turn indicator lights have gone out. Unfortunately, due to Chevy's vehicle design, the bulbs can only be replaced by pulling the bumper off in total and replacing bulbs. Then, putting entire bumper system back. This information was given to me by Chevrolet of Issaquah AND confirmed by Bonita Point Repair in Chula Vista California.
NHTSA complaint #11741594 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Chula Vista, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Front turn indicator lights have gone out. Unfortunately, due to Chevy's vehicle design, the bulbs can only be replaced by pulling the bumper off in total and replacing bulbs. Then, putting entire bumper system back. This information was given to me by Chevrolet of Issaquah AND confirmed by Bonita Point Repair in Chula Vista California.
NHTSA complaint #11741594 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Toledo, OH
ENGINE
Rear main seal has blown three times since I purchased my vehicle from Carvana. I’ve pulled the engine out myself as I cannot afford another $3,500 at the shop. I’m a single income household that makes too much for financial assistance. The Chevy Equinox was the only vehicle in our price range. That was prior to the seal blowing, again.
NHTSA complaint #11738827 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 65,000 milesNekoosa, WI
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle started shaking abnormally before unintendedly decelerating. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with excessive oil consumption; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 65,000.
NHTSA complaint #11734409 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Middletown, OH
ENGINE
Burns Oil so bad I don't need to change oil. I put about a quart of oil in it a week. Car runs rough. Sometimes overheating and sounds loud when low on oil. This occurs on a consistent regular basis since aquiring in October 2024
NHTSA complaint #11730208 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,000 milesColumbus, OH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal rattling and ticking sound coming from under the hood. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with excessive oil consumption, and the engine needed to be replaced. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the engine oil was topped off occasionally. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
NHTSA complaint #11728612 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wapakoneta, OH
ENGINE
Car uses excessive amount of oil! We have had the timing replaced and now it’s stating the P0420 catalyst system efficiency below threshold bank 1.
NHTSA complaint #11725242 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dayton, OH
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
While driving my 2015 Chevrolet Equinox (2.4L Ecotec) in active traffic, the vehicle suffered a sudden, catastrophic loss of oil pressure with no prior warning, displaying a 'Stop Vehicle' message. The sudden loss of engine power created an immediate collision risk. Independent diagnosis confirmed the engine lost all oil. This is a known defect (GM Special Coverage #14882) where a frozen/clogged PCV orifice causes excessive crankcase pressure, blowing out seals (like the rear main seal and VVT solenoids) and dumping the oil. I called GM, who told me I needed the vehicle to be towed to a local dealership (White Allen Chevrolet) refused to perform the GM-mandated Manometer Vacuum Test to confirm the PCV defect, attempting to conceal the root cause of the engine failure. This is the only test I asked them to perform, and I provide my GM case number and the TPS number. This known PCV design flaw creates a sudden, highly dangerous stalling condition at highway speeds. It had been very cold in Dayton for over a week, something known to cause this problem.
NHTSA complaint #11720949 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Waupaca, WI
ENGINE
According to our mechanic, our vehicle’s PCV system became clogged and it increased the pressure in our engine and caused the car’s rear main seal to rupture, leading to catastrophic oil loss, loss of power to the vehicle, and engine damage. In our case the entire engine needed to be replaced.
NHTSA complaint #11720791 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hickory, NC
ENGINE
Noticed knocking in the engine and excessive oil usage. I keep my vehicle maintained. I went and had the values and seals replaced around engine for oil. Not even two to three weeks later knocking again. Took it back and engine is burning oil. Read about this make and model having defective pistons and rings causing oil to burn excessively. This has cost me thousands of dollars and it's still not fixed.
NHTSA complaint #11719161 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Elgin, IL
ENGINE
My daughter, the driver of this vehicle, noticed a noise. The check engine light came on. Over a short period, the noise from the engine progressively worsened. We brought the car to a certified mechanic. The mechanic's initial determination was that the engine would need to be replaced. It was determined that the engine was faulty, failing due to oil leakage that led to excessive oil consumption. As we were not ready to make that kind of financial commitment, we asked him if there was another option. We were instructed to check the oil frequently. We did so over the next couple of months, but the problem continued and worsened. As my daughter was driving, the engine would make a noise and lose power. Eventually, the vehicle started shaking and would shut down when stopped at red lights and stop signs, requiring the engine to be restarted each time. We then brought it back to the mechanic, and the engine was replaced with a new one.
NHTSA complaint #11713630 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Horizon City, TX
AIR BAGS
The ref air bag sensor appeared in my 2015 Chevy Equinox today. My vehicle has not been in a car accident as of today 1/24/26. None of my airbags have been deployed at all. I would like to report this defect and I would like Viva Chevrolet in El Paso Texas to be notified since that is the dealership where I purchased based my vehicle. Thank you. [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11713163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Concord, NH
ENGINE
Excessive oil consumption leading to a broken engine
NHTSA complaint #11711172 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Concord, NH
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Excessive oil consumption leading to a broken engine
NHTSA complaint #11711172 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Garland, TX
ENGINE
The 2015 Chevrolet Equinox equipped with the 2.4L Ecotec engine has been reported to have excessive oil consumption due to several issues: Defective Piston Rings: The oil control rings are prone to sticking and clogging, leading to oil blowby and excessive consumption. PCV System Issues: Problems with the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system can create excessive vacuum in the crankcase, contributing to oil consumption. Timing Chain Problems: The timing chain can stretch over time, leading to misalignment and potential engine damage. Regular Maintenance: Owners are advised to monitor oil levels frequently and consider using synthetic oil for better performance and longevity. These issues can lead to significant engine wear if not addressed promptly. My vehicle is using too much oil. The 2.4L eco tec engine is installed in this vehicle. The Chevrolet dealership in Rockwall Texas texted me that the engine is bad and needs replacing. The vehicle is past is warranty, so the dealership is using that reason, to not fix this issue. The estimated cost to replace the engine is approximately $11000.00.
NHTSA complaint #11710470 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Chippewa Falls, WI
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I bought a vehicle from a small dealership as a "as is". My passenger side door shifted. Its does not state on the title and I was not told that it was in a accident. I have had this vehicle about a month now. I have a loan against it.
NHTSA complaint #11708317 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Owosso, MI
ENGINE
The 2.4 liter engine in my car has had excessive oil consumption. now the engine oil is like peanut butter and the blow by out the oil fill is strong.
NHTSA complaint #11707502 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Greensboro, NC
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I am submitting this complaint due to a serious mechanical failure involving the vehicle’s transmission system. The transmission developed a fluid leak that resulted in a sudden loss of proper hydraulic pressure, causing abrupt and unintended vehicle movement while driving. This malfunction created a hazardous driving condition and nearly caused an accident. Given that the vehicle has approximately 77,000 miles, this type of transmission failure is premature and raises concerns regarding a potential manufacturing or component defect. Immediate review and corrective action are requested due to the safety implications of this issue.
NHTSA complaint #11707322 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Brown Summitt, NC
ENGINE
My 2015 Chevrolet Equinox has a cracked exhaust manifold, a known issue affecting many vehicles of this model. When using the heat or air conditioning, gas fumes enter the cabin, creating a serious risk of carbon monoxide exposure. I regularly transport my two young children in this vehicle, and we are forced to drive with the windows down in cold weather to reduce the risk. The vehicle also consumes oil and is still being financed. Despite the manufacturer being aware that this is a widespread problem, I am being quoted nearly $2,000 for the repair. This poses an immediate and serious threat to the health and safety of my children and myself.
NHTSA complaint #11706236 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Brown Summitt, NC
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
My 2015 Chevrolet Equinox has a cracked exhaust manifold, a known issue affecting many vehicles of this model. When using the heat or air conditioning, gas fumes enter the cabin, creating a serious risk of carbon monoxide exposure. I regularly transport my two young children in this vehicle, and we are forced to drive with the windows down in cold weather to reduce the risk. The vehicle also consumes oil and is still being financed. Despite the manufacturer being aware that this is a widespread problem, I am being quoted nearly $2,000 for the repair. This poses an immediate and serious threat to the health and safety of my children and myself.
NHTSA complaint #11706236 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 197,000 milesWilson, NC
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. While the vehicle was stopped at a traffic light, the vehicle jerked and idled roughly and nearly stalled. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone to be diagnosed. The contact was provided with DTC P0172. The vehicle was not repaired. Several days later, the vehicle was taken for an oil change, and transmission fluid was flushed and refilled. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, a week after the oil change, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact took the vehicle back to Auto Zone to be diagnosed. The contact was provided with the same DTC: P0172. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer. The contact could not leave the vehicle at the dealer. The contact spoke with one of the mechanics at the dealer, who suggested that the high-pressure fuel pump may be the cause of the failure. Several days later, the contact took the vehicle to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the high-pressure fuel pump had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that fuel had leaked into the engine through the PCP valve and caused the fuel to run rich. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 197,000.
NHTSA complaint #11706104 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Aneth, UTFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
When I was driving down the street, I noticed smoke coming from the hood then flames . I parked off to the side of the road and open the door and took off running away from the vehicle. Loosing everything clothes, phones , jewelry important documents. I paid off the vehicle. Was happy that for once in my life I did something good until that happen so please help on what to do . I know I didn't pay off the SUV for nothing.
NHTSA complaint #11705238 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Aneth, UTFire
ENGINE
When I was driving down the street, I noticed smoke coming from the hood then flames . I parked off to the side of the road and open the door and took off running away from the vehicle. Loosing everything clothes, phones , jewelry important documents. I paid off the vehicle. Was happy that for once in my life I did something good until that happen so please help on what to do . I know I didn't pay off the SUV for nothing.
NHTSA complaint #11705238 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Augusta, KS
ENGINE
Timing chain tensioner lost tension and timing chain got so loose it would not turn the cams and catastrophic engine valve damage was done! This engine is notorious for this and there are class action lawsuits as a result but no recalls from GM as yet only TSB’s (Technician Service Bulletins). This is going to cost me thousands in repairs and I still owe $8500 on it. If this happens in traffic it could pose a serious safety risk in addition to the financial burden it is causing many people! Mine fortunately happened in my driveway and the vehicle had to be towed to my mechanic and has been there for 3 weeks. Have had rental vehicle costs as well. He had 3 other 2010-‘16 GM 4 cylinder 2.4L Ecotec engines in his small shop with the exact same issue! After doing research it is a common issue and GM has done nothing to solve it!
NHTSA complaint #11705317 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.