2012 Chevrolet Equinox problems
The Chevrolet Equinox is a crossover SUV introduced by Chevrolet in 2004 for the 2005 model year. It was intended to be a replacement for the North American Chevrolet Tracker and Chevrolet S-10 Blazer. The third-generation Equinox also replaced the first-generation Chevrolet Captiva.
An all-electric battery-powered, or BEV version called the Equinox EV was introduced in 2022 with sales starting in 2023 for the 2024 model year. It adopts a separate design and underpinnings from the internal combustion engine powered Equinox.
First generation (2005)
The Chevrolet Equinox was introduced in 2004 at the 2003 North American International Auto Show for the 2005 model year.
The Pontiac Torrent was introduced in 2005 at the 2005 Los Angeles Auto Show for the 2006 model year.
Riding on the GM Theta platform, the unibody is mechanically similar to the Saturn Vue and the Suzuki XL7. However, the Equinox and the Torrent are larger than the Vue, riding on a 112.5 in (2,858 mm) wheelbase, 5.9 in (150 mm) longer than the Vue. Front-wheel drive is standard, with optional all-wheel drive. They are not designed for off-roading unlike the truck-based Chevrolet Tahoe and Chevrolet TrailBlazer.
For the 2006 model year, GM updated the Equinox for the first time, adding GM badges on the front doors, as well as recoloring the dashboard panel from grey to black. For 2007, the instrument cluster got a redesign with a trip computer display, replacing the Saturn-sourced unit.
The first-generation Equinox and Torrent were produced exclusively at the CAMI Automotive GM/Suzuki joint venture plant in Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada. The 3.4 L LNJ V6 engine is made in China (by Shanghai GM), while the Aisin AF33 transmission is made in Japan. Starting with the 2008 model year, the Equinox Sport and Pontiac GXP were available with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that was made in the United States.
Production ended in May 2009.
The Chevrolet Equinox was not sold in Mexico during the 2009 model year.
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Common 2012 Chevrolet Equinox problems
The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox has several common problems based on complaints from owners. One of the most significant issues is engine problems, which are more frequent and severe than in other compact SUVs.
Transmission problems are another common issue in the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox, with irregular shifting being a significant concern. These problems can be caused by software or physical issues, and diagnosing the problem requires a technician's expertise.
Windshield wiper motor failures are also frequent in this model, with the motor wearing out and needing replacement, costing about $240, depending on local labor rates.
The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox has three recalls, which is better than other SUVs from the same year. These recalls include the tire pressure monitoring system, seat height adjuster bolts, and the key being able to be removed while the vehicle is not in park, which can lead to rollaway situations.
The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox has a lifespan of about 150,000 miles, which is shorter than some competitors. Expensive engine problems can mechanically total out some vehicles, and regular maintenance costs are higher than some other compact SUVs, estimated to be $563 per year.
In summary, the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox has several common problems, including engine issues, transmission problems, windshield wiper motor failures, and recalls. These problems can lead to costly repairs and a shorter lifespan than some competitors. Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity of the vehicle.
Do 2012 Chevy Equinox have problems?
The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV with a price range of $9,327 to $13,829. Engine and transmission problems are common, making the Equinox a car buyers should not purchase.
Is the 2012 Chevy Equinox a good car?
The Equinox splits the difference between small SUVs and midsized models. While nice and roomy inside, it's less efficient than other five-passenger SUVs, but burns as much gas as larger, seven-passenger models.
What is the recall on the 2012 Chevy Equinox?
GENERAL MOTORS (GM) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX AND GMC TERRAIN VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 18, 2011, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 6, 2011, FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NUMBER 138, "TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM" (TPMS).
What is the most common problem with Equinox?
One of the most common complaints in the Chevy Equinox engine is excessive oil consumption. In fact, according to carbrain.com, some drivers report their Chevy Equinox engine uses nearly a quart of oil per 1,000 miles.
Do 2012 Chevy Equinox have problems?
The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV with a price range of $9,327 to $13,829. Engine and transmission problems are common, making the Equinox a car buyers should not purchase.
Is the 2012 Chevy Equinox a good car?
The Equinox splits the difference between small SUVs and midsized models. While nice and roomy inside, it's less efficient than other five-passenger SUVs, but burns as much gas as larger, seven-passenger models.
What is the most common problem with Equinox?
One of the most common complaints in the Chevy Equinox engine is excessive oil consumption. In fact, according to carbrain.com, some drivers report their Chevy Equinox engine uses nearly a quart of oil per 1,000 miles.
What is the recall on the 2012 Chevy Equinox?
GENERAL MOTORS (GM) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX AND GMC TERRAIN VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 18, 2011, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 6, 2011, FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NUMBER 138, "TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM" (TPMS).
2012 Chevrolet Equinox car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Equinox problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Chevrolet Equinox vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2012 Chevrolet Equinox
The NHTSA has received 662 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Chevrolet Equinox vehicles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-22
- VIN: 2GNALDEK3C6
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: In May 2024 there was an open recall regarding o2 sensor which was "fixed" by the dealer in July 2024. On September 22, 2024 the check engine light was triggered and diagnostics revealed o2 sensor failure. It could be a safety issue.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-17
- VIN: 2GNALDEK3C6
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Bought in May 2024 and at that time had a open recall post catalytic converter o2 sensor which led to the discovery of a cracked exhaust manifold and according to service advisor would release toxic fumes in the cab of the vehicle.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-10
- VIN: 2GNALDEK5C1
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: 2012 Chevrolet equinox burns/leaks oil which cause the serpentine belt to pop off & I had to replace it. Having problems with the MAT & IAT codes, just replaced the fuel pump, crankshaft sensor, camshaft sensor, & spark plugs... Car still will not crank. They're saying there's no recall but why are all the Chevrolet equinox malfunctioning with the same problems with no help from the manufacturer?
SUSPENSION,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-20
- VIN: 2GNFLCEK0C6
- Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE
- Summary: This vehicle is using insurmountable amount of engine oil.since I purchased the vehicle in 2024 I've had the oil changed once and twice the engine oil was down 3-4 quarts and when I started it,the engine was rattling because of oil disappearing.i purchased this nice looking car for.$5000.,so it's not junk to me it must be fixed.i think GM should be responsible for this problem.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-25
- VIN: 2GNALDEK6C6
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Windshield wipers stopped working
SUSPENSION,WHEELS,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- VIN: 2GNFLCEK4C6
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS,ENGINE
- Summary: The underbody of my 2012 Equinox is completely rusted and now not drivable. The KFrame is rotten and the car is not safe to drive. The engine consumes a great amount of oil. I've been told the engine needs to be replaced. I've only had the car for 2 years.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-16
- VIN: 2GNFLEEK1C6
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I have owned this car for over 3 years. I have ALWAYS started the car, closed the doors, gotten the kids in the car, and then got in the car myself and went on with my day. On [XXX], I put my 6 month old baby in the car, closed the door, and when I tried to get into the car, all the doors were locked. NEVER in my time of owning this car have the locks EVER locked itself after just starting it and letting it "warm up". Needless to say, thank God my air was already on so my baby was at least "safe" until the police could arrive and get the car opened. But they unfortunately broke my driver side window trying to get in, and so this safety malfunction could have literally killed my child, but it also did cause me damages that I have to get repaired. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-20
- VIN: 2GNFLNEK2C6
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: I own a 2012 Chevy equinox 2.4 eco-tech all wheel drive I purchased it three years ago and a little over 90,000 miles on it asked the dealer if it was part of the class action oil consumption lawsuit. They said they knew nothing about it Shortly after I purchased vehicle I noticed I was having to add to 4 quarts of oil every two months I saw oil puddles under my car and not sure where it was coming from. I have driven less than 10,000 miles in three years and have had my serpentine belt snap off due to excessive oil leakage , I have added myself to the class action lawsuit but I’ve heard nothing. I am still adding at least 3 quarts of oil a month and I don’t even drive 400 miles a month. I believe this is putting my life in Jeopardy and passengers in my car. There is never been a check oil light come on yet. I have checked my oil and it has been almost completely bone dry..
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-22
- VIN: 2GNALBEK0C1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My car just died, stopped, immediate dead car in full on rush hour traffic on the highway main road, me and my two grandchildren sitting in a car not able to move at all, not able to get restart. In review this is happening to 2012 and other years Chevrolet Equinox with no one knowing what the true actual engine problem is. it had to be pushed off the main hwy before we could have been injured or worse. When will the first death occur Chevrolet. This needs to be RECALLED, or BOUGHT BACK CARS BEFORE DEATH LAWSUITS BEGIN.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-13
- VIN: 2GNFLEE54C6
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, she became aware that the vehicle was handling poorly, after which the tire pressure system service light illuminated. Upon parking the vehicle, the contact smelled a burning odor around the exterior of the vehicle. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V511000 (Tires), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 78,000.
ENGINE,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-15
- VIN: 2GNFLEEK2C6
- Components: ENGINE,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that her husband discovered that the timing chain had failed. In addition, there was an excessive consumption of oil causing the contact to add engine oil frequently. The engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the timing chain needed to be replaced but no further diagnosis was available for the other failures. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-19
- VIN: 2GNALPEK7C6
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: So I know of atleast 4 Chevrolet equinox's all haveing the exact same issue doesn't matter milage all in the same area which have a issue saying engine power system low then it starts to studder and often stalls out or then over revs and trys to take off like it's been slingshotted which is unsafe even after repairing many issues it is coming up as and nothing seems to fix said issue. Also timing jumping and after being professionally fixed it jumps timing again shortly after being repaired also milage doesn't seem to be a factor in this issue as I have 1 that has jumped timing with only 150k miles while the other days after timing was all repaired jumped timing again and it has like 200+k miles and I know of atleast 2 others in the area having the same exact issue.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-15
- VIN: 2GNFLEEK5C6
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Basically it has the recall for clogged cats and O2 sensors it has [XXX] my pistons I use quart oil every 100 miles I talked to customer service last night was told all ve fixed and I could have rental went to get it cause my car dies at every stop from not having right fuel mixture. Now they changed story . Lawsuit ? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-15
- VIN: 2GNALBEK1C1
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: Chevy sold the Equinox knowing full well that it had engine problems. The oil system fails, using oil at an excessive rate and oil dumping from engine. They were aware that around 80,000 miles the car would need over $4000 in repairs. They also knew the timing chain gets off timing causing over $2000 in repairs. Both of which happened to my vehicle within 6 months. The Engine ceased up and was undrivable. It sat in our driveway for over 18 months while we paid off the loan.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-27
- VIN: 2GNFLDE59C6
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: While operating my vehicle today, it began to rain and I went to turn on my wipers, and they would not turn on. I had to pull over several times due to poor visibility ecause of the rain. I had to wait for traffic to slow down or pass me by to avoid an accident. This has never happened to me and I was scared out of my mind.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-17
- VIN: 2GNALDEK0C6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: PCV freeze-up with blown main rear seal losing all oil almost instantly while driving on the interstate at 70MPH in 1 degree F weather. Spent 2.5 hours on the side of the road in 1F weather in a vehicle with no heat (because the engine was blown) before a tow truck could arrive. No warnings ahead of time, and no notification from GM of this well-known problem. Although it is a design flaw of the engine, it would be easily preventable if GM would notify users of the potential for this catastrophic problem.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-10
- VIN: 2GNALDEK2C6
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE SHUTTERING/STUTTERING AT STOP LIGHT WHILE IDLING....OIL CONSUMPTION ISSUE...CONSUMING OIL...HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP ISSUE.LEADING TO LOW PRESSURE FUEL PUMP. BECAUSE OF THIS. LEAKING OIL INTO ENGINE. NEED TO REPLACE ALL SPARK PLUGS. HAVE COMPLETE OIL CHANGE BECAUSE OIL IS ALL CLUNKY/CLOGGED. THIS HAS ALSO CAUSED A PROBLEM WITH THE ENGINE CAM SHAFT COVER... PCV VALVE. AND NEED TO HAVE WATER PUMP REPLACED. TOTAL COMING TO ABOUT $2600.00!!!!!!!!!!!! WHY I HAVE NOT GOTTEN A RECALL NOTICE FOR THIS PROBLEM!
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-04
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2GNALDEK4C6
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Accident involving frontal impact with a deer. Heard and smelled propellant charge for airbag and service airbag light came on, no airbag inflation anywhere I could find it. Front grille/bumper cap, AC core, passenger fender are scrap. Any other cases of this.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-15
- VIN: 2GNFLNE58C6
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: A knocking nose fm the back passenger side it's heard every time I drive
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-08
- VIN: 2GNFLEEK1C6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Driving to work at 6:30 am. I slowed down at a stop light. Heard a weird noise I've never heard before from under the hood, headlights dimmed and became bright again, started to accelerate as stop light changed to green. Wouldn't accelerate passed 25 mph causing vehicles behind me to almost rear end me. Got to the next stop light, same thing, weird noise dimmed headlights back to bright but accelerated fine. Got to work 2 miles later and my engine was making a very loud noise (rattling). Shut engine off, checked oil which was full. 2 hours later tried to start it and it would not turn over. Towed to a mechanic shop where they determined my engine blew and will cost $7,500 to replace.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-11
- VIN: 2GNFLNEK7C6
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while having the vehicle serviced, the contact was informed that the vehicle was experiencing excessive oil consumption. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was diagnosed by an independent mechanic. The contact was informed that the vehicle had experienced excessive oil consumption. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 129,687. The contact stated the passenger airbag light stays on, even though there is no passenger present in the vehicle.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-21
- VIN: 2GNALBEK5C1
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I purchased a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox with 100,550 miles on it in April 2023. The original owner gave me all service receipts & records to show the automobile had been taken great care of. The interior & exterior are still in like new condition. The problem I've experienced is sudden "reduced engine power" that caused the engine to stall while driving. Two weeks prior, I had had a service check with an oil change and the works. I had it towed and to my surprise, the mechanic showed me that my automobile didn't have ANY oil. The oil indicator light NEVER came on. Afterwards, I did research and discovered that GM is aware of this exact problem in this particular make and model and been sued in a class action lawsuit for this and lost. WHY HAVEN'T THEY ISSUED A RECALL TO REPLACE THE FAULTY PISTONS THAT CAUSES THIS?
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-07
- VIN: 2GNALDEK2C1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the instrument display indicated a reduced engine power warning message. The contact stated that while driving up a bridge, the vehicle slowed down and failed to accelerate properly while depressing the accelerator pedal. The failure was intermittent. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the accelerator pedal was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer but due to cost, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 74,595. The vehicle is currently at a Chevrolet dealer for repairs but they can’t get the parts because of the strike.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-27
- VIN: 2GNALDEK5C6
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while performing a daily oil check, the contact became aware that the oil level was low while checking the dipstick. The contact added oil and contacted the dealer and was advised that oil should be added. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the warranty had expired and referred the contact to the dealer. The failure mileage was 24,500.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
- VIN: 2GNALBEK7C1
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Car is using a quart or more of oil a week. Consistently needing top offs and has shut off while driving before. This is a major safety issue. There is a major possibility I could be driving down the road and my engine explode because it ran out of oil. There is no leak. It is just the oil burning so fast. There is no resolution asides from putting a new engine in it and that is not something I can afford considering I just got the car from a dealership back in November. If there is not a recall on it, there should be. The oil will be full and then suddenly get super black and then next day be empty.
2012 Chevrolet Equinox recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: 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."
- Consequence: 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.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS LLC
- Components: TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
- Summary: GENERAL MOTORS (GM) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX AND GMC TERRAIN VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 18, 2011, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 6, 2011, FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NUMBER 138, "TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM" (TPMS). THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO ILLUMINATE THE TIRE PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT WHEN THE PRESSURE IN A TIRE IS 25% BELOW THE RECOMMENDED COLD TIRE PRESSURE. ON THESE VEHICLES, THE LIGHT WILL NOT ILLUMINATE UNTIL THE TIRE PRESSURE IS MORE THAN 25% BELOW THE RECOMMENDED COLD TIRE PRESSURE.
- Consequence: UNDERINFLATED TIRES CAN RESULT IN TIRE OVERLOADING AND OVERHEATING, WHICH COULD LEAD TO A BLOWOUT AND POSSIBLE CRASH. THE RESULTING CRASH COULD CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY. UNDERINFLATED TIRES CAN ALSO RESULT IN PREMATURE OR IRREGULAR WEAR, POOR HANDLING, AND POOR FUEL ECONOMY.
- Remedy: GM DEALERS WILL UPDATE THE BODY CONTROL MODULE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT NOVEMBER 9, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438 AND GMC AT 1-866-996-9463.
Negative 2012 Chevrolet Equinox car reviews
Positive 2012 Chevrolet Equinox car reviews
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I purchased this vehicle as a certified car from my local Chevy dealer in July 2014 with 33K on the odometer. As part of the deal, I got new tires which was great. Since then, I have driven it up to 114K miles and I must say it has been an excellent vehicle for my purposes. I travel to BPCR matches all around the country, and it has never complained about hauling all my gear, and sometimes even another competitor's gear. I change the tires every 80K and use Mobil-1 every 10K, and it keeps on trucking. I am considering getting the V6 for a bit more power in the mountains, but the 4cyl averages just under 30mpg at 73mph on the interstates. I especially like its smaller size when in the city. It is easy to maneuver and park, and it handles great, probably because of the quality Goodyear tires I keep on it. I have hauled as much as 1500lbs, and I have had zero problems other than a warped front rotor that was replaced ($48 part) when I had the pads replaced at 93K miles. I highly recommend this vehicle.
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my 2012 car. I've put 42000 miles on it and it's been a great ride! I've only had to take it in for oil changes and tire rotations, which is amazing. With a 4 cyl. FWD, I get about 33 mpg on the highway going 65, 28 going 78, and around 20 in stop and go city driving. I did notice a jumpy transmission shift on occasion, but it's not always the case. It wasn't great in the snow, but that was because I didn't have the right tires on it. I just put better tires for snow on it last week, so I'm excited to see how it performs. I drive to Florida twice a year from Pennsylvania, and it's always a comfortable ride. I make sure to change the oil every 5000 miles, and after reading about the poor oil consumption, I'll start watching it more closely. So far, I haven't had any oil problems yet. Thanks for listening!
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My wife and I have owned our 2012 Equinox since November 2011 and we couldn't be happier with our purchase. We test drove several SUVs, including the Honda CRV, Ford Escape, and Toyota Rav4, but ultimately chose the Equinox for its exceptional value for money. As someone who is very particular about vehicles, the ride quality was my first priority. I was pleased to find that the triple door seals and acoustic dampening of the engine make for an incredibly quiet ride, while the 18 inch wheels and suspension provide a smooth driving experience even on rough terrain. The Equinox also boasts the most comfortable seats in its class, with high-quality leather that doesn't feel cheap like it does in the Rav4 or Escape. The engine strikes a great balance between performance and economy, and we typically get around 24 miles per gallon despite the hills of San Diego and my tendency to drive close to 80 on the highway. While I have experienced a rough shift in the transmission once or twice, it's a minor issue that could easily be improved upon. The controls throughout the vehicle are well thought out, although I do wish the Equinox had a push button start like the Ford Escape. That being said, we have never had to repair the Equinox in the almost 4 years since we purchased it - only oil changes and tire rotations have been necessary. While the cargo capacity isn't huge, it's on par with other SUVs in its class. If you have young children or babies, just be sure to choose a stroller that collapses flat and long to ensure a good fit. Overall, we highly recommend the Equinox for anyone in the market for a reliable and comfortable SUV.If they fold in half, you will not have any problems. All in all, I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone wanting a small SUV. Everyone I know who has purchased one loves them.
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We're absolutely thrilled with our new car! It's so sporty and fun to drive. I especially appreciate the back-up camera, which saved me from running over a dog the other day.
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Hi there! We recently had the opportunity to test drive several SUVs, including the Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, and Hyundai models. After careful consideration, we found that the Equinox, Escape, and CX-5 were our top picks. Ultimately, we decided to go with the Equinox because it was more affordable for the fully loaded version and came with a 100k mile/5yr warranty, which was a great deal compared to the 60k mile warranty on the Escape. We opted for the LTZ model, which came with FULL LEATHER seats (unlike the Titanium model of the Escape, which often only has partial leather seats). If you're in the market for a new SUV, we highly recommend test driving both the V6 and 4 cylinder Equinox models, as there's a significant difference in power. Thanks for reading!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Chevrolet Equinox problems:
2012 Chevrolet Equinox Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
No, the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is not a good SUV based on information from 810 verified owner reviews, and 14 government and automotive websites. Positives ...
2012 Chevrolet Equinox Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Top 2012 Chevrolet Equinox Problems · Compressor · Transmission Fault and/or Check Engine Light With Code P0716, P0776, P0717, P0777, P2714, P2715, and...
2012 Chevrolet Equinox Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
2012 Equinox engine problems - Chevrolet Forum - Chevy ...
Feb 11, 2021 ... Equinox - 2012 Equinox engine problems - 159000 miles on original engine, replaced exhaust manifold twice, catalytic converters and all O2 ...
What are some of the more common problems with the 2012 ...
Feb 8, 2020 ... According to Repair Pal the Chevrolet Equinox Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 23rd out of 26 for compact SUVs. So, I'm ...
Other years of Chevrolet Equinox
Are you having problems with your 2012 Chevrolet Equinox?
Brock Franecki 2025-04-09
I experienced several mechanical issues with my new car, including excessive oil consumption that resulted in major repairs. Despite never skipping an oil change, I had to replace the cam actuators due to oil sludge. Unfortunately, GM denied my request for reimbursement. As a result, I have decided to sell the car and will not be purchasing a Chevrolet in the future.
Morton Braun 2025-03-22
Hey there! Just wanted to share a quick tip for those who are concerned about their MPG. I used to have the same issue, but I found that adjusting my driving habits made a huge difference. For example, I started paying more attention to my stops and starts at stop lights, and it really paid off. On a recent 1000 mile trip, I kept track of my speeds and fuel efficiency, and found that driving at a steady 58mph on a flat road gave me an impressive 36.3mpg! Overall, I averaged 29.3mpg on the trip, with 90% of the miles on the highway and the rest in the city. So, if you're experiencing a lot of stop-and-go traffic, it might be worth taking a closer look at your driving habits. By the way, I did notice that the back hatch connection can come loose and rattle over bumps, so keep an eye on that. But overall, I've had a great experience with this car and would definitely recommend it. Thanks for reading!
Ezra Hansen 2025-03-19
I bought my 2012 Equinox in April 2012. Unfortunately, I had to call the dealer within a few months because my check engine light was illuminating from my dash. I was spoken to in a way that made me feel like I didn't know what I was talking about and was told to tighten my gas cap. However, this did not fix the problem and the light continued to go on and off constantly. The dealership would reset it when I complained, but it was only a temporary solution. Then, my Equinox started consuming oil at an alarming rate. I have to constantly check my oil, usually at every fill up, in fear of my engine consuming all of it considering consumption is only getting worse. Despite having under 50k miles and performing all scheduled and preventative maintenance, this issue persists.
Sid Veum 2025-01-24
I was excited to get my new Equinox (6 cyl 2LT) until 37 days and 1,800 miles later. Unfortunately, the transmission is experiencing some issues with the shift solenoids. The dealership has ordered the necessary parts to fix the problem, but it's unclear if there is any additional damage to the transmission. While it's frustrating to deal with these issues so soon, I'm hopeful that the repairs will be successful. If not, the dealership has assured me that they will replace the necessary parts. I'm looking forward to getting back on the road soon. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Arvel Ondricka 2025-01-11
I bought my 2012 Equinox brand new and have driven it for over 140,000 miles. While it has had some issues over the years, some of which were covered under warranty, I unfortunately had to pay for thousands of dollars worth of repairs. From the beginning, I noticed that the gas mileage was not as advertised, averaging 25 mpg on the highway instead of the claimed 32 mpg. Around 80k miles, it started burning more oil than usual, about 1 quart per 1000 miles. After 100k miles, I had to pay for several repairs including the timing chain, rear main seal of engine, cracked exhaust manifold, and oxygen sensors. Despite these issues, I have decided to move on from Chevy. Thank you for the memories!