2020 Chevrolet Equinox problems

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Vacuum pump, brake asst light. And more unknown because it is still under repair.

NHTSA complaint #11758953 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

POWER TRAIN

Engine power reduced Car will not accelerate Jerks after a long stop Have replaced engine and transmission same problem occurred

NHTSA complaint #11758252 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Engine power reduced Car will not accelerate Jerks after a long stop Have replaced engine and transmission same problem occurred

NHTSA complaint #11758252 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Engine power reduced Car will not accelerate Jerks after a long stop Have replaced engine and transmission same problem occurred

NHTSA complaint #11758252 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Car failing to accelerate properly when pushing gas peddle to floor, delay for couple seconds/ longest was 30 seconds before car registered need to move. No defined time its happening intermittently, no warning or codes populating for issue. Recent issue Car was only registered 5 mph after pulling into street from a parking lot with pedal to the floor. After 30 ish seconds car jerks speeding forward at the expected force with pedal to floor. Car Basically was not moving and risked being hit by cars not realizing we are having acceleration issues. Luckily no cars coming and other traffic was stopped by red light. Took to repair shop they had it for 2 days and confirmed issue but all tests were cleared and areas check passed. Research showed known issue but no fix found. Issue started within last 2 weeks. Note current heat wave and online forms says other with same issue on 2020 Chevy equinox seems to notice issue more often when extreme heat weather and ac on high in car. Repair shop had no options for repair unless it happens and codes for them to read, recommend trading in car due to safety issue.

NHTSA complaint #11757848 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11753771 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

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

NHTSA complaint #11753771 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving 80 MPH, the message “Service Brake Assist” warning light illuminated twice. The contact stated that while attempting to depress the brake pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as needed, causing the contact to engage the parking brake and manually shift the gear shifter to a lower gear to get the vehicle to come to a complete stop. A dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had occurred twice. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the brake booster pump needed to be replaced. The brake booster pump was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 94,000.

NHTSA complaint #11753062 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

While driving, my 2020 Chevrolet Equinox suddenly lost power and shut off without warning while I was pulling into traffic. The vehicle would buzz not crank afterward but would not restart. This created a safety hazard because the unexpected engine shutdown occurred while the vehicle was in motion. This is the second brake vacuum pump failure I have experienced with this vehicle. In 2022, the brake vacuum pump failed and was found shattered internally. At that time, the engine continued running, and the pump was replaced. During this most recent incident, the brake vacuum pump failed again, and the internal end of the pump broke apart. I replaced the vacuum pump and removed the broken pieces I could access, but the vehicle remains in a crank/no-start condition. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by a dealership or independent repair facility. However, after seeing the shattered pump components, a couple of mechanics I know expressed concern that the broken pieces may have affected the engine timing. That has not been confirmed. The failed pump and replacement parts are available for inspection.

NHTSA complaint #11752556 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SERVICE BRAKES

While driving, my 2020 Chevrolet Equinox suddenly lost power and shut off without warning while I was pulling into traffic. The vehicle would buzz not crank afterward but would not restart. This created a safety hazard because the unexpected engine shutdown occurred while the vehicle was in motion. This is the second brake vacuum pump failure I have experienced with this vehicle. In 2022, the brake vacuum pump failed and was found shattered internally. At that time, the engine continued running, and the pump was replaced. During this most recent incident, the brake vacuum pump failed again, and the internal end of the pump broke apart. I replaced the vacuum pump and removed the broken pieces I could access, but the vehicle remains in a crank/no-start condition. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by a dealership or independent repair facility. However, after seeing the shattered pump components, a couple of mechanics I know expressed concern that the broken pieces may have affected the engine timing. That has not been confirmed. The failed pump and replacement parts are available for inspection.

NHTSA complaint #11752556 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SERVICE BRAKES

I was pulling into a parking lot off the state Thruway with the brake system failure no brakes, hard pedal, and the car would not stop

NHTSA complaint #11751405 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

STEERING

I bought the 2020 equinox May the 9th 2026 the dealership concealed a lot of things going on this vehicle and I complain to them two days after purchase he told me I was stuck with it in the meanwhile as I drive the vehicle I have had repairs done but it's something going on with the acceleration it accelerates on its own sometimes and slow to pick up speed. The steering seems to get away from me at times that makes me feel like I'm going to lose control when driving. I have almost had a couple of accidents since then so what really worries me is the steering problems which I just had a little alignment done today July 15th 2026 and the accelerating from time to time went backing up or pulling off. I do feel like the safety of others can be at risk for should I say my safety is that risk at times so I am extremely cautious when I'm driving. No I have not had really anyone to look at I have been having a car looked at for many issues but that issue I am still trying to get in to see a mechanic that I'm used to dealing with but he's been backed up. No there are no lights of any such but when I purchased it the sensors in the tires and I've had that replaced and I've noticed this situation with the acceleration when I bought the vehicle and the slow speed pick up when driving.

NHTSA complaint #11750722 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I bought the 2020 equinox May the 9th 2026 the dealership concealed a lot of things going on this vehicle and I complain to them two days after purchase he told me I was stuck with it in the meanwhile as I drive the vehicle I have had repairs done but it's something going on with the acceleration it accelerates on its own sometimes and slow to pick up speed. The steering seems to get away from me at times that makes me feel like I'm going to lose control when driving. I have almost had a couple of accidents since then so what really worries me is the steering problems which I just had a little alignment done today July 15th 2026 and the accelerating from time to time went backing up or pulling off. I do feel like the safety of others can be at risk for should I say my safety is that risk at times so I am extremely cautious when I'm driving. No I have not had really anyone to look at I have been having a car looked at for many issues but that issue I am still trying to get in to see a mechanic that I'm used to dealing with but he's been backed up. No there are no lights of any such but when I purchased it the sensors in the tires and I've had that replaced and I've noticed this situation with the acceleration when I bought the vehicle and the slow speed pick up when driving.

NHTSA complaint #11750722 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

I bought the 2020 equinox May the 9th 2026 the dealership concealed a lot of things going on this vehicle and I complain to them two days after purchase he told me I was stuck with it in the meanwhile as I drive the vehicle I have had repairs done but it's something going on with the acceleration it accelerates on its own sometimes and slow to pick up speed. The steering seems to get away from me at times that makes me feel like I'm going to lose control when driving. I have almost had a couple of accidents since then so what really worries me is the steering problems which I just had a little alignment done today July 15th 2026 and the accelerating from time to time went backing up or pulling off. I do feel like the safety of others can be at risk for should I say my safety is that risk at times so I am extremely cautious when I'm driving. No I have not had really anyone to look at I have been having a car looked at for many issues but that issue I am still trying to get in to see a mechanic that I'm used to dealing with but he's been backed up. No there are no lights of any such but when I purchased it the sensors in the tires and I've had that replaced and I've noticed this situation with the acceleration when I bought the vehicle and the slow speed pick up when driving.

NHTSA complaint #11750722 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

STRUCTURE:BODY

In early XXX, I noticed that water was pooling in the spare tire well. I took it to a Chevrolet dealership and they concluded that the rear sunroof drains were clogged. After unclogging the drains and confirming adequate sealing of the tubes, rain water was still leaking into the spare tire well. This is causing mold on the carpet and rust. This same issue, with the same year/make/model, happened to somebody else around the same time, and they made a post on Reddit ([XXX]). I believe there is an issue with the drainage system, leading to auto parts potentially rusting and mold growth, both of which severely harm the driver and passengers. Two cases of the exact same situation, starting around the same time, may not be a coincidence and it’s possible this is a widespread issue that has yet to be reported. An investigation into this issue could help drivers stay safe on the road. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11750076 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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

NHTSA complaint #11749888 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SERVICE BRAKES

Brakes went stiff and hard to push no warning light. I was driving on the interstate with my daughter. Was stuck out of town with no breaks.

NHTSA complaint #11749665 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

As I was coming to a stop at light my brakes became very difficult to push the pedal down to stop. It took everything in me to get the vehicle to stop before entering the intersection and oncoming traffic. I was able to get the vehicle parked safely in a nearby parking lot but then the engine wouldn't start it just kept trying to turn over. The brake assist error popped up, and then the check engine light came on. I was able to get it started again about 20 minutes later, all the same warnings and lights. I white knuckled the drive back to my house... Once I got home the engine was smoking, smelled like it was burning, and oil was spilling out all over the place underneath, impossible to see where a leak was as it was coming from the entire engine. There was ZERO warning with the vehicle, no issues up to this point, and suddenly the equinox is now useless in my driveway unable to start with oil still leaking in multiple spots. An oil pan under the main leaking area, but there are still multiple areas of oil spilling even a week later. Oddly enough my onstar report for the month came to email a few days later reporting perfect engine health and zero issues - even thought the vehicle can't start now.

NHTSA complaint #11748127 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SERVICE BRAKES

As I was coming to a stop at light my brakes became very difficult to push the pedal down to stop. It took everything in me to get the vehicle to stop before entering the intersection and oncoming traffic. I was able to get the vehicle parked safely in a nearby parking lot but then the engine wouldn't start it just kept trying to turn over. The brake assist error popped up, and then the check engine light came on. I was able to get it started again about 20 minutes later, all the same warnings and lights. I white knuckled the drive back to my house... Once I got home the engine was smoking, smelled like it was burning, and oil was spilling out all over the place underneath, impossible to see where a leak was as it was coming from the entire engine. There was ZERO warning with the vehicle, no issues up to this point, and suddenly the equinox is now useless in my driveway unable to start with oil still leaking in multiple spots. An oil pan under the main leaking area, but there are still multiple areas of oil spilling even a week later. Oddly enough my onstar report for the month came to email a few days later reporting perfect engine health and zero issues - even thought the vehicle can't start now.

NHTSA complaint #11748127 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving approximately 5 MPH and approaching a stop sign, the brake pedal was depressed and there was a thumping sound coming from the brake pedal, with the message “Service Brake Assist” was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the residence and parked. The contact stated that the next day while driving approximately 63 MPH, the message "Reduced Engine Power" was displayed. The contact exited the highway, and while attempting to depress the brake pedal, the pedal was firm, and the vehicle failed to slow as intended. The contact continued to depress the brake pedal with force, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle slowed down eventually. The vehicle was taken to an Auto Parts Store and a handheld diagnostic machine to diagnose the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was turned off and failed to restart. The vehicle was restarted after three attempts. The vehicle was taken to the residence and the following day, the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the vacuum pump, camshaft, and timing belt needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 111,000.

NHTSA complaint #11747893 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving approximately 5 MPH and approaching a stop sign, the brake pedal was depressed and there was a thumping sound coming from the brake pedal, with the message “Service Brake Assist” was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the residence and parked. The contact stated that the next day while driving approximately 63 MPH, the message "Reduced Engine Power" was displayed. The contact exited the highway, and while attempting to depress the brake pedal, the pedal was firm, and the vehicle failed to slow as intended. The contact continued to depress the brake pedal with force, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle slowed down eventually. The vehicle was taken to an Auto Parts Store and a handheld diagnostic machine to diagnose the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was turned off and failed to restart. The vehicle was restarted after three attempts. The vehicle was taken to the residence and the following day, the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the vacuum pump, camshaft, and timing belt needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 111,000.

NHTSA complaint #11747893 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

The turbocharger are bad on the 1.5 L vehicles. My current one , I had replaced already and my previous one had it too. Reduced engine power and should be recalled. I want to be reimbursed for the service and part replacement. 976.00 for the turbocharger and labor costs of 400.00. 3 1/2 hours of labor costs and the diagnostic test my nirth country GM in Hibbing. Should be recalled for all of these vehicles. 218-290-5027 Craig Johnson

NHTSA complaint #11747964 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SERVICE BRAKES

The vacuum pump failed and my brakes went out pedal became extremely hard to push. I was driving on the highway at the time and was lucky I had a shoulder to slow down on and finally stop. I took the car to my usually mechanic who confirmed the vacuum pump failure but referred me to the Chevy dealer because this is a known issue. The dealer confirmed the pump had blown apart( their words to me) and that there are most likely debris now in the engine. No warning lights or alerts of any kind came on. Total suprise.

NHTSA complaint #11747928 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

My car is a 2020 Chevy Equinox with only 31852 miles. While driving today, all of a sudden the car started shuddering badly and stalled in the middle of the highway. Talk about a very scary situation. I pushed the car to the side of the road, and had it towed to a local shop. They found that the Fuel Pump Control Module had failed (P129F code). Upon doing some research, I found out that the 2021 Equinox had recalls issued for this same exact issue. I also found that the 2020 and 2021 Equinox both used the same part number Fuel Pump Control Module (13565638). Because of this, the recall should be extended to the 2020 Chevy Equinox so that owners pay get the major possible safety issue fixed. Luckily, I did not get into an accident when this occured and honestly Chevrolet should be reimbursing me for the repair as this should have included in the safety recall for 2021 Equinox using the same part. I appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to hopefully seeing the right thing done here. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11747853 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

My car is a 2020 Chevy Equinox with only 31852 miles. While driving today, all of a sudden the car started shuddering badly and stalled in the middle of the highway. Talk about a very scary situation. I pushed the car to the side of the road, and had it towed to a local shop. They found that the Fuel Pump Control Module had failed (P129F code). Upon doing some research, I found out that the 2021 Equinox had recalls issued for this same exact issue. I also found that the 2020 and 2021 Equinox both used the same part number Fuel Pump Control Module (13565638). Because of this, the recall should be extended to the 2020 Chevy Equinox so that owners pay get the major possible safety issue fixed. Luckily, I did not get into an accident when this occured and honestly Chevrolet should be reimbursing me for the repair as this should have included in the safety recall for 2021 Equinox using the same part. I appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to hopefully seeing the right thing done here. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11747853 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.