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Model-year record

2011 Chevrolet Equinox
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2011 Chevrolet Equinox

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

780

Reports to NHTSA, 2011

Safety recalls

3

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

19.5

EPA estimate

Known issues

Engine issues lead owner complaints (31% of 780 reports), followed by power train (17%).

Engine31% · 240 reports
Power Train17% · 135 reports
Visibility/Wiper8% · 59 reports
Electrical System7% · 55 reports
Air Bags6% · 48 reports
Steering6% · 43 reports
Unknown Or Other6% · 43 reports
Engine And Engine Cooling4% · 33 reports

+ 14 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 780 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11197384, ODI 11719991, ODI 11661353, ODI 11630978, ODI 11613108.

Individual complaint reports(780)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
Electrical SystemJun 2026 · ODI 11746040Details +

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the mileage was 119,000, and at the time of a Carfax report check, it was discovered that the mileage was 175,000.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11746040 at NHTSA →
Air BagsMay 2026 · ODI 11738139 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +

I was in a rear end collision on May 14th 2026 the impact of the speed totaled my car in my airbags did not deploy and from my understanding where the sensors are on my vehicle they should have I ended up getting a concussion and soft tissue damage because my head hit the steering wheel my seat belt did not lock either.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 1 injuries
Open ODI 11738139 at NHTSA →
EngineFeb 2026 · ODI 11719991Details +

Vehicle burns excessive oil. Have to put in a quart weekly. Check engine light comes on for camshaft sensor, they’ve already been replaced 3 times and the light won’t go off.

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Feb 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11719991 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperJan 2026 · ODI 11714145Details +

Wipers have stopped working, have had it repaired twice and they keep quitting.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11714145 at NHTSA →
Engine And Engine CoolingJan 2026 · ODI 11712022Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. While driving at various speeds, there was a misfire coming from the engine while attempting to accelerate. The failure occurred while attempting to accelerate from a stop. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic, who diagnosed that a shaft inside the engine had failed, and the engine needed to be replaced. The engine was replaced with a rebuilt engine; however, the failure reoccurred approximately 4 months after the engine was replaced. The vehicle was returned to the mechanic, who diagnosed and determined that the same failure had reoccurred. The engine valves and exhaust were cleaned; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that smoke was entering the cabin of the vehicle and out of the exhaust pipe while the heater was activated. The vehicle was returned to the mechanic, who then diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced another time. The vehicle was repaired again. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 165,000.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Apr 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11712022 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperJan 2026 · ODI 11709949Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while the windshield wiper was activated, the windshield wiper arms detached. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11709949 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemSep 2025 · ODI 11688729Details +

While driving, the car wouldn't accelerate even though I was pressing the gas pedal to the floor. It made funny noises and was jerking. I was told not to drive because of the danger to my engine. The engine light did come on

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Jun 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11688729 at NHTSA →
Fuel SystemJul 2025 · ODI 11673817Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. In addition, the contact stated that once the fuel gauge displayed that 1/4 tank of gasoline was available, the vehicle jerked, and there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the pistons had failed, and the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

Reported
Jul 2025
Incident date
Nov 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11673817 at NHTSA →
Fuel SystemJul 2025 · ODI 11673471Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at various speeds, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. In addition, the vehicle jerked, and an abnormal sound was heard coming from the engine. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the pistons had failed, and the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Reported
Jul 2025
Incident date
Nov 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11673471 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2025 · ODI 11668009Details +

I BOUGHT THIS OFF OF A PRIVATE PERSON ,SHORTLY AFTER IT STARTED NOT TAKEN ITS GAS AND DYING OUT ON THE HIGHWAY OR SHORT ERRANDS ,I STARTED PUTTING A BUNCH OF MONEY IN IT IVE REPLACED ALL I KNOW TO DO AND IT STILL WONT TAKES ITS GAS ,I HAVE BEEN STALLED IN AN INTERSECTION BEFORE BECAUSE I HAD NO PEDAL IF YOU TURN IT OFF IT STARTS BUT JUST WONT TAKE THE GAS ,I HEARD THIS VEHICAL WAS RECALLED AND I DONT KNOW IF ITS NEVER BEEN FIXED OR WHATS GOING ON WITH IT ,IVE HAD IT TO MANY MECHANICS AND NO ONE CAN FIX IT ,CAN YOU TELL ME IF ANY OF THIS IS ON THE RECALL LIST AND IF ITS BEEN TAKEN CARE OF IT ? I CANT DRIVE IT LIKE THIS ITS TOO DANGEROUS . I BOUGHT THE CAR IN 24 , AND ITS NEVER RAN SINCE WITH OUT ISSUES THAT NO ONE CAN FIND THE PROBLEM OF FIX IT THE RIGHT WAY ,THANK YOU

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
May 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11668009 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlMay 2025 · ODI 11662761Details +

three times now my gas pedal has stuck down to the floor and had unsafe speeds reaching 95mph this is unsafe for us and others on the road wrote GM several times now with no help from them this needs to be checked out for everyone out there how many wrecks and rear end collision happened because of this acceleration issue mine seem to happen when you take it off cruise control and then accelerate the gas pedal but he dealerships can't find an answer I am asking for your help before someone get killed because no one wants to take action

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
Apr 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11662761 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlMay 2025 · ODI 11661253Details +

To whom it may concern: I am writing to notify you that I own a 2011 Chevy Equinox and take very good care of my vehicles. But I wanted to let you know that I have had three incidents in which the gas pedal sticks, and the vehicle goes up to 95 miles an hour. I have contacted the dealership and GM to let them know of this. They cannot explain why this is happening. GM just said trade it in. Well, that's a possibility and who says if the next person purchases it that this could happen to them. So far, we have been able to avoid an accident. I am wondering if anyone else has had this complaint because GM says no., I feel it has something to do with the cruise control that it has a computer glitz. Can you investigate this if anyone else has had this problem.

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
Apr 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11661253 at NHTSA →
EngineMay 2025 · ODI 11661353Details +

Gas is getting into the crankcase because the GDI Fuel pump is faulty and is causing check engine light and the stability Trax light and caused the reduce engine power light and shuts engine off

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
May 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11661353 at NHTSA →
SteeringMar 2025 · ODI 11646752Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated on the instrument panel, prompting the contact to discontinue driving the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who observed a small amount of fluid within the engine compartment. The dealer later determined that the fluid was power steering fluid. However, the dealer was unable to determine the exact location of the leak. The contact was advised to continue driving the vehicle for 1 week then return for a follow-up inspection. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 149,000.

Reported
Mar 2025
Incident date
Feb 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11646752 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemFeb 2025 · ODI 11643435Details +

It burns oil excessively Stalls out while driving Stability traction control comes on Timing chain has to be replaced now Fuel pump needs replacement All this happened at same time My cost is 2700.00

Reported
Feb 2025
Incident date
Feb 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11643435 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJan 2025 · ODI 11639190Details +

catalytic converter, exhuast manifold, and whole exhaust system need to be replaced

Reported
Jan 2025
Incident date
Dec 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11639190 at NHTSA →
SteeringJan 2025 · ODI 11637702Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving approximately 15-20 MPH and making a left turn, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the power steering assist was inoperable. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 78,000.

Reported
Jan 2025
Incident date
Jan 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11637702 at NHTSA →
EngineDec 2024 · ODI 11630978Details +

Oil burns, no leaks, no lights appear for low oil. I get the oil changed every 3000 miles. We put 3 quarts in and 200 miles later it's burned 1.5 qt.

Reported
Dec 2024
Incident date
Dec 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11630978 at NHTSA →
Air BagsNov 2024 · ODI 11624716Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that the message to “Service Air Bags” was displayed. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 160,243.

Reported
Nov 2024
Incident date
Nov 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11624716 at NHTSA →
Power TrainNov 2024 · ODI 11624177Details +

Jerking between gears

Reported
Nov 2024
Incident date
Oct 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11624177 at NHTSA →
Air BagsOct 2024 · ODI 11617523 · crashDetails +

The contact owned a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving up a hill on a 2-lane road at approximately 45 mph, an oncoming vehicle in the opposing lane had taken too wide of a turn and had entered her lane, to avoid a head-on collision the contact swerved into the guard rail. Upon crashing, the air bags did not deploy. No warning lights were illuminated before the crash. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to the residence and deemed a total loss. The contact has an appointment with a doctor to determine whether any injuries were sustained. Nobody outside of the vehicle was injured. A police report was filed. A dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 142,357.

Reported
Oct 2024
Incident date
Sep 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11617523 at NHTSA →
EngineSep 2024 · ODI 11613108Details +

No warning lamps. I was 3 quarts low only going 1614 miles from last oil change. Oil consumption , piston rings not correct. No oil leaks just consumes a lot of oil. Low oil made my car stall out while driving. No oil light came on to fill. Piston rings recall , needs replaced. Bought from an individual in July.

Reported
Sep 2024
Incident date
Sep 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11613108 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2024 · ODI 11588456Details +

Trouble code p2138. Replaced accelerator pedal with OEM. Trouble code still persists. Car goes into limp mode while driving posing a safety concern. There is a TSB 07-06-04-019F. Other codes include p0301 and p0697. After limp mode I have to pull over and turn car completely off and crank it up again to get out of it.

Reported
May 2024
Incident date
Mar 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11588456 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperApr 2024 · ODI 11586206Details +

Joint on the front windshield wiper assembly failed. Was driving in a 4 lane highway doing about 70 mph while it was raining. Windshield wipers stopped halfway through the movement they sat for a moment they moved to as far as they could go towards the driver side and that’s where they stayed. The driver side one was over the edge of the vehicle. I followed tail lights turning onto a side road, pulled over safely. Moved the wipers to a down position, there was no resistance. Checked the fuse and that was fine. Waited a bit for the rain to settle a bit and drove to a safer location. Once off the highway and away from traffic when turning the windshield wipers on I could hear the motor still going so knew it was an issue with the arms. I had been on the road for about 2 hours all major highway with still over 2.5 hours left of my drive when they failed. We had to trailer it home as it was not safe to drive with the amount of rain we were getting. Replaced the motor and arm mechanism when we got it home and saw that it was one of the ball joints that broke. There were no warning lights, we have the old parts if needed for inspection, this looks to be the same issue as the recalled parts on the 2014-2015 equinox.

Reported
Apr 2024
Incident date
Apr 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11586206 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlApr 2024 · ODI 11584819Details +

I bought my 2011 Equinox new then in 2013 the gas pedal went to the floor and stuck down on a two lane road and I could not control the speed as we react 90 I shut down the vechical took it to the dealership the next day the chevolet co had the dealership dump the on board computer and then down load a new program this worked until the other day we were coming home from taking another couple to there dentist appointments on the way home the gas pedal sucked right to the floor again the speed rose to the 90 we were on a four lane I had cars behinde me but not in front i keep trying to get the foot up i was afraid if i shut it offf we would get rear ended every one was scared i told them what was going on as the speeds keeped increasing trying to hit the brakes to slow some down and taping on the gas pedal i tried prying the pedal up with my foot and after the third attemp it poped up. I call chevolet they said they were not going to do anything about it I told them this is a big safty issue there commet was the vechical is out of warranty and miles I ony have 103K on it and very well maintained with Birdnow chevorlet great dealership Chevrolet is not taking these gas pedal sticking down serious I read were there are several vechical with this same problem and it will take people getting hurt or killed before something down Thank You

Reported
Apr 2024
Incident date
Apr 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11584819 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherFeb 2024 · ODI 11570760Details +

I had just bought this car from a friend of mine and the first couple days it was fine then I was on the interstate and it started making this loud sound and stop going in the middle of the interstate and I was stuck on the interstate with my child and couldn’t get the dam thing to go anywhere I called someone to come help me they looked at it and said it was the engine or the time and chain I’m not really sure of what the problem is but it scared me so back I couldn’t get over to the shoulder to save my life I was stuck

Reported
Feb 2024
Incident date
Apr 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11570760 at NHTSA →
EngineJan 2024 · ODI 11567183Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle remained on the side of the roadway. Additionally, the contact observed condensation under the engine compartment. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the rear main seal and the timing chain needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was 118,000.

Reported
Jan 2024
Incident date
Jan 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11567183 at NHTSA →
EngineJan 2024 · ODI 11565829Details +

The oil has had to be changed every month. The oil just disappears. I have to check and fill it weekly. I was told it a manufacturing problem. Now I’m on the side of the road, I heard a loud bang and it started smoking and oil is all over the ground. I’m waiting on roadside assistance.

Reported
Jan 2024
Incident date
Jan 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11565829 at NHTSA →
Power TrainDec 2023 · ODI 11560643Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated to respond. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to continue driving. The contact stated that while attempting to drive from a complete stop the following day, the accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to respond. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
Dec 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11560643 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemDec 2023 · ODI 11558777 · fire · 1 injuriesDetails +

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, he noticed smoke coming from underneath the hood. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact pulled into a business parking lot. The contact stated that he opened the hood and noticed the engine compartment had caught fire. Additionally, the contact stated that the battery was burned and was bubbly. The contact was able to extinguish the fire with water bottles. A fire department report and a police report were not filed. The contact sustained a minor burn on the right hand and did not receive medical assistance. The vehicle was towed to the residence of the contact's parents. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 185,000.

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
Aug 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Fire 1 injuries
Open ODI 11558777 at NHTSA →
EngineDec 2023 · ODI 11558405Details +

I purchased the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox 5 months ago from a dealership name The Automaxx group in Morrisville, PA. Two weeks after, the check engine light came on, I took it back to the dealership and it was in the shop for 3 days or more. I got it back and every week it was back in the shop for the last four months. I was very hesitant about driving it, but I need to get to my doctor appointments and then I park it. I had to constantly put oil in it and not knowing why or where the oil is going. It started smoking black thick smoke under the hood and cut off, then cut back on and I took it to the shop near my home, and let the mechanic diagnose the problem and he said the vehicle is not safe to drive at all, it's engine failure due to excessive oil consumption and that the vehicle could possibly catch on fire and that it's a defect with the engine from general Motors. I just would like to recoup the money back that I paid for the vehicle. I was totally unaware of the harm that I was in with this vehicle. I am not sure if the dealership was aware of the faulty engine or the dangerous vehicle that they sold, but thank God I wasn't hurt and that I don't have to inhale the smoke from that vehicle. The check engine light has been on for awhile and I was told that they weren't sure why it would not go off, that was a red flag for me. It has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police or insurance company.

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
Nov 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11558405 at NHTSA →
EngineNov 2023 · ODI 11556422Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact heard an abnormal knocking sound with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with excessive oil consumption. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming engine oil excessively fast. The contact stated several quarts of oil were kept in the vehicle to avoid the oil becoming extremely low. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and diagnosed with excessive oil consumption and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

Reported
Nov 2023
Incident date
Nov 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11556422 at NHTSA →
EngineNov 2023 · ODI 11554664Details +

Engine locked up no oil, six months after oil change with low travel miles. Car sits most of the time. No warning indicators, service not due.

Reported
Nov 2023
Incident date
Nov 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11554664 at NHTSA →
SteeringSep 2023 · ODI 11544392Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH and making a left turn, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact stated that there was an unknown warning light illuminated. The contact was able to continue driving the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure started out intermittently and had gradually over the years became a reoccurring failure. The contact stated that the failure recurred at various speeds. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 159,000.

Reported
Sep 2023
Incident date
Apr 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11544392 at NHTSA →
EngineSep 2023 · ODI 11543471Details +

Excessive Oil Consumption.

Reported
Sep 2023
Incident date
May 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11543471 at NHTSA →
EngineAug 2023 · ODI 11536413Details +

[XXX] [XXX] [XXX] Findlay Chevrolet Chevy has thousands of complaints regarding the 2.4L oil consumption. Thousands! The engine has 97,500 and consumes 2qts in 1,000miles. I requesting that GM helps fix the issue. A normal engine does not even consume 1qt in 3000miles, let alone 2qts in 1,000. It does not leak. The only problem is a GM defect possibly with piston rings which is documented with similar years. On top of this. They had an airbag recall for similar models and years. This vehicle they say, does not have a VIN on the recall. Yet, my “service airbag” error is on. It seems that GM does not care if someone has an airbag that may go off at 70mph. Not do they care about selling people engines that consume oil at a rate that will leave people stranded in the middle of nowhere. Or possibly starting on fire from getting too hot from not having oil in the engine. Thank you for your time INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Aug 2023
Incident date
Aug 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11536413 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJul 2023 · ODI 11531156Details +

Just got a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox from a dealership that I trusted. Only had a few weeks and it just stalled on me while driving in traffic!!! Would not start back ! It was terrifying!!! Thank God it wasn’t rush hour! A nice man helped push it out of road into a parking lot! Now I find out there are safety issues and recalls that I was not aware of! Faulty oil piston rings caused it to jump time! They want over 7,000$ to fix but I do not have that kind of money!!!Its a death trap and shouldn’t have been allowed to re sale!!!

Reported
Jul 2023
Incident date
Jun 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11531156 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlJul 2023 · ODI 11530590Details +

ACCELERATOR BECAME UNRESPONSIVE. HAD TO PLACE CAR IN NUTRAL AND BACK TO DRIVE TO REGAIN CONTROL.

Reported
Jul 2023
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11530590 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJun 2023 · ODI 11528602Details +

There is a SB-10058723-5799, that addresses airbags. I have a 2011 Chevy Equinox with 94k miles on it. The ‘service airbag’ error stays on the screen. I called Chevy to ask if I can bring vehicle in under SB 10058723-5799, and they told me my vehicle does not fall under this, AND they say the SB 10058723-5799 is expired. I asked they lady, so if the airbag deploys while I’m driving 65mph on the freeway, you’re not going to fix it under a recall that you say is expired. This makes absolutely no sense, and I believe it should fall under NHTSA’s special bulletin. Please help me. Thank you for your time.

Reported
Jun 2023
Incident date
Jun 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11528602 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperJun 2023 · ODI 11527613Details +

The wipers stopped working on the highway pouring down rain

Reported
Jun 2023
Incident date
Jun 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11527613 at NHTSA →
EngineJun 2023 · ODI 11526185Details +

The vehicle started rocking during regular errands but displayed no error codes. Turned it off and left for a few minutes, when returned it would not start just the engine spinning. Had it towed to a local mechanic chain where they said it was likely a major issue and that there was no compression. They wouldn't be able to fix it so towed it to a dealer. Once the dealer had a look they determined the piston ring was blown/etc and the Equinox would need a whole new engine to get working again. The dealer also stated there was little to no oil in the system, and no light or warning of any sign had alerted. The vehicle had under 3000mi since the last oil change and only 69000mi in total use. Apparently there is TSB/warranty and major known issue in regards to oil consumption but not that I was made aware of before looking into since this issue. I have also been told that there are no active recalls on my vehicle and the VIN says everything that needed to be addressed has been.

Reported
Jun 2023
Incident date
Jun 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11526185 at NHTSA →
EngineMay 2023 · ODI 11520857Details +

The vehicle’s engine had been stalling shortly after ignition and when idling. I had it in a repair shop three separate times and was told that it was a problem with the solenoids. The first two times, they were cleaned. They were replaced on the third. I was also told that the vehicle was using an excessive amount of oil, and to bring it in every 3000 miles for an oil change. On the date of the incident, I was traveling home. I took exit 363 off of I-70 onto US-287. While traveling down the off-ramp, the engine stalled. I was unable to brake properly. By the time the vehicle came to a complete stop, I was the middle of a busy crossroads. This particular area sees a lot of traffic, especially semitrailer trucks. When I was next able to get it into be looked at, I chose a different shop because the first had clearly missed something. It was this shop that told me my engine was ruined because it had been being driven without oil, despite not being at the 3000 mile mark yet. The vehicle has not been driven since, as I have not had the $7000 it would cost to replace the engine. Please, if there is any advice or help you can give me, I’d so appreciate words of wisdom. Thank you for your time.

Reported
May 2023
Incident date
Aug 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11520857 at NHTSA →
EngineMay 2023 · ODI 11519974Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to provide notification whenever the oil level was low. The vehicle was hesitating and shuddering before accelerating. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the vehicle was experiencing an abnormal oil consumption, causing engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 143,822.

Reported
May 2023
Incident date
Nov 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11519974 at NHTSA →
Engine And Engine CoolingMay 2023 · ODI 11519885Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while coming to a complete stop, the vehicle lost motive power. Additionally, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle with a catalytic converter failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

Reported
May 2023
Incident date
Apr 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11519885 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemApr 2023 · ODI 11515093Details +

Stalling and stopping completely while coming to a stop. New muffler put in, still stalling! - I drive daily with my two children under five and the risk of my truck stopping completely while driving is my biggest safety concern for both my children and I!

Reported
Apr 2023
Incident date
Apr 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11515093 at NHTSA →
Air BagsApr 2023 · ODI 11515244 · 1 injuriesDetails +

Traveling at low speed in driveway. When the side airbags deployed for seemingly no reason. There was no collision, did not run over anything etc.

Reported
Apr 2023
Incident date
Mar 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
1 injuries
Open ODI 11515244 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMar 2023 · ODI 11511905Details +

The windshield wipers and yes, available at anytime for inspection. I was traveling Hwy 80 and the wipers stopped working completely in a downpour of rain at 70 mph. I could not see and could not even follow the rear taillights in front of me to stay in my lane. I put my right blinker on and slowly moved to the slow lane in order to take the next exit off the highway. Had to travel over the highway on the overpass and needed to turn right. Couldn’t see detail so ended up running over yellow barriers then made it to the right turn and was barely able to make out a driveway which was a Starbucks. Stopped to confirm wipers would not work and to move wipers by hand to clear windshield. Every 4 or 5 blocks had to stop and get out to physically move wipers by hand to clear rain water from windshield in order to drive further. It was so dangerous, I could of easily caused accidents for others and myself and also could have been fatal! Next time you’re on the highway, close your eyes and keep driving-it was the same and scared me to the point that I was shaking!!! Thank God I didn’t have my grandkids with me!!

Reported
Mar 2023
Incident date
Mar 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11511905 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMar 2023 · ODI 11511906Details +

The key can be removed although drivetrain is not in Park? Also, a week ago while picking up my grandkids from school, my car would not start. It was parked. Everything was dead and the key could not be removed from the ignition which was quite odd even if it was a dead battery, the key should come out of the ignition? It was in Park. The key could be turned but not taken out of ignition?

Reported
Mar 2023
Incident date
Mar 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11511906 at NHTSA →
EngineMar 2023 · ODI 11510048Details +

Excessive oil usage

Reported
Mar 2023
Incident date
Feb 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11510048 at NHTSA →
TiresJan 2023 · ODI 11504680Details +

Sidewall of tire blew while traveling at about 70 MPR on 4 month old tire. 225/65R17

Reported
Jan 2023
Incident date
Jan 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11504680 at NHTSA →

This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.

Recalls(3)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Electrical SystemMay 2016 · 16V502000Details +

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Buick Verano and 2016 Chevrolet Malibu as the electronic park lock lever may allow the ignition key to be removed without the transmission being in PARK. Also, certain 2013 Buick Encore, 2011 Buick Regal, 2013-2014 Buick Verano, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox 2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2011-2013 GMC Terrain vehicles may have been serviced with similar defective replacement electronic park lock levers. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."

Risk: If the key is removed without the transmission in PARK, the vehicle may rollaway as occupants are exiting, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and if necessary replace the key cylinder lock housing, free of charge. The recall began on October 14, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, Buick 1-800-521-7300, and GMC 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 50490 and 50491.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Seat Belts · 10V623000Details +

GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 CADILLAC SRX, CHEVROLET EQUINOX AND GMC TERRAIN VEHICLES. THE DRIVER AND /OR FRONT PASSENGER SAFETY BELT BUCKLE ANCHOR MAY FRACTURE AND SEPARATE NEAR THE SEAT ATTACHMENT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Risk: THE SAFETY BELT SYSTEM MAY NOT RESTRAIN THE OCCUPANT(S) AS DESIGNED AND COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL MODIFY THE PASSENGER AND/OR THE DRIVER SAFETY BELT BUCKLES AS NECESSARY. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE JANUARY 18, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463 AND AT THE OWNER CENTER AT WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Seats · 14V447000Details +

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Buick LaCrosse, Regal and Chevrolet Camaro, as well as certain 2010-2012 Cadillac SRX, Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles, equipped with power height adjustable driver and passenger seats. In the affected vehicles, the bolt that secures the driver's and passenger's power front seat height adjuster may fall out causing the seat to drop suddenly to the lowest vertical position.

Risk: If the driver's seat unexpectedly drops, the distraction and altered seat position may affect the drivers' control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the height adjuster shoulder bolts, free of charge. The manufacturer distributed interim letters to owners on September 11, 2014. The recall began on December 26, 2014. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-458-8006 (Cadillac), 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), or 1-800-462-8782 (GMC). GM's number for this recall is 14271.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

3 NHTSA investigations on record

Investigations are agency reviews, not findings that a vehicle is defective.

Momentary Increased Steering Effort

On June 1, 2020, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened PE20-009 to investigate instances of a momentary increase in steering effort after the vehicle is driven in a straight line for a period of time due to an issue with the steering gear in model year (MY) 2010 through 2012 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain SUVs.If the electric power steering system fails to operate as intended, the driver will experience momentary increased effort when attempting to turn the steering wheel from the straight-ahead position. For this condition to occur, the driver would need to have traveled in a straight line at a sustained high speed, without turning the steering wheel, for approximately 30 minutes or longer. The steering gear contains a servo unit that includes a worm gear with a worm and a worm wheel. General Motors (GM) stated that the primary root cause of the increased steering effort is the supplier's inconsistent application of grease in the interface between the worm and the worm wheel. The grease may have been applied in a location on the worm wheel that didn't interface with the worm, depriving the worm gear of proper lubrication.On November 1, 2014, GM issued Special Coverage 14232 to address the power steering stick-slip issue in MY 2010-2014 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain; MY 2011-2014 Chevrolet Cruze and Volt; MY 2012-2014 Buick Verano; and MY 2013-2014 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. GM notified consumers via mail.The Special Coverage repair includes the replacement of the steering gear with an improved internal worm gear greasing process for MY 2010-2012 vehicles. For the MY 2013-2014 vehicles, the Special Coverage repair includes a reprogramming of the steering gear control module. The new software has an anti-stick feature which senses and reduces the friction between the worm and worm wheel by oscillating the worm gear. GM stated that the difference in remedy is due to the inability of the MY 2010-2012 steering gear control module to accept the new software.The remedy implemented in GM Special Coverage 14232 appears to be sufficient in addressing the safety-related concerns of this issue. Considering the low complaint and warranty rates of steering rack replacement as well as the field exposure time for the subject vehicles, the potential safety consequences of this issue are very low. To date, there have been no reported crashes, injuries, or fatalities related to this issue. ODI has not identified a safety defect or defect-related failure trend in the subject vehicles. In view of the Special Coverage, low rate of failure, and low potential hazard to drivers, this Preliminary Evaluation is closed. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by new circumstances.Review the ODI reports cited above at nhtsa.gov under the following identification numbers:11424633,11421725,11229647,11101375,10919921,10689932,10671557,10664687,10663350, 10593429,10592065,10585476,10585365,10576237,10575693,10532766,10490295,10434128, 10417845,10412535,10403168,10395532,10395171,10391948,10384211,10375515,10366297, 10360999,10360599,10345626,10319530,10305569,10304769,10299745

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 failure in the Model Year (MY) 2013 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain. Failures were attributed to water and debris intruding into the windshield wiper assembly ball joints, leading to excessive wear and eventual detachment of the affected ball joint resulting in loss of windshield wiper function. ODI?s review focused on 2010-2012 and 2014-2016 Equinox and Terrain vehicles. Owners were reporting a high rate of failures of the windshield wiper system. These failures were the same as that addressed by recall 16V-582. ODI's review of data supplied by GM as well as its own confirmed a high failure rate in model years 2014 and 2015. On March 17, 2022, GM filed a defect information report recalling all MY2014-2015 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles to remedy the potential failure of the front windshield wiper transmission assembly.General Motors is also conducting a special coverage program, N192266181, for MY2010-2012 and MY2016-2017 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles. The special coverage is for a period of 15 years or 200,000 miles, whichever comes first.Both the recall, 22V-165, and the special coverage program, N192266181, address windshield wiper system failures on the subject vehicles. The dealership will inspect the front wiper assembly for ball joint wear. Depending on the degree of wear, the wiper links will be replaced, and a water shield installed or the entire module will be replaced.In view of the recall and special coverage, ODI is closing this Engineering Analysis (EA). NHTSA reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances.The ODI complaints cited above can be viewed at www.nhtsa.gov under the following ODI identification numbers in a separate attachment.

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 installation of an improved windshield wiper motor/transmission assembly and the relocation of a drain hole on the Air Inlet Panel at the base of the windshield.RQ18-002 was opened to assess windshield wiper failure rates in the MY 2010-2012 and MY 2014 - 2016 Equinox and Terrain (subject vehicles).During the course of the investigation, ODI received additional consumer complaint traffic bringing its total to 602 concerning the alleged defect in the subject vehicles. In their December 20, 2018 response to ODI's Information Request (IR) Letter, GM reported 1,303 complaints related to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles. Together, these bodies of data correspond to 1,905 unique Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN).GM stated the recalled vehicles exhibited double the warranty rate and five times the complaint rate of the subject vehicles and that continuing complaint traffic concerning the alleged defect in the subject vehicles stemmed from publicity surrounding Recall 16V-582.ODI's review of GM's data confirms the stated difference in failure rates between the recalled and subject vehicles. However, ODI believes that the subject vehicle failure rates are nevertheless elevated and that publicity alone cannot account for the continued consumer complaint traffic concerning the alleged defect in the subject vehicles. ODI is upgrading to RQ18-002 to an Engineering Analysis to compare subject vehicle failure rates and engineering practices to those in peer vehicles.The 602 ODI complaints cited can be viewed in a separate attachment.

Crash-test ratings

2011 Chevrolet Equinox SUV FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

2011 Chevrolet Equinox SUV AWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Equinox FWD2.4L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive223126
Equinox AWD2.4L 4-cylAll-Wheel Drive202823
Equinox FWD3.0L 6-cylFront-Wheel Drive172420
Equinox FWD3.0L 6-cylFront-Wheel Drive162319
Equinox AWD3.0L 6-cylAll-Wheel Drive162319
Equinox AWD3.0L 6-cylAll-Wheel Drive162319

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

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Compare the year-by-year record

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2011 Chevrolet Equinox: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox?

Owners filed 780 NHTSA complaints about the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox?

The most-reported problem areas are Engine (31% of complaints) and power train (17%).

How many recalls does the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox have?

3 recalls have been issued that affect the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox, covering components such as electrical system. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox get?

The EPA rates the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox between 19 and 26 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.