2025–2026 Chevrolet Equinox: what to inspect before you bid at auction

Before you bid: what to have checked

Issues documented for this generation. They are patterns for the model, not findings about any specific car, and many depend on the engine, mileage and service history. Confirm on the unit you are bidding on.

• The OnStar telematics control module (K73) fails or locks up (GM service update N262547330 says it may enter an unrecoverable state). Owners report losing OnStar, GPS and connectivity, seeing 'Service Emergency Calling', and many say the module drained the 12V battery until the car would not start. Owners also report replacement modules on backorder verified source
  System: Electrical/charging · Applies to: all · Documented around: low; complaints cite about 5,500-8,000 mi · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: OnStar module failed, drains my battery; Service Emergency Calling message; GPS showed us 100 miles from where we were; had to jump start it multiple times; car would not turn on; part is on backorder, no ETA
  Source: GM service update N262547330 rev. 02 (May 26, 2026): 2025-2026 Equinox (and Terrain, Equinox EV and other GM models), the Telematic Control Module may enter an unrecoverable state; dealers reprogram it, or it is updated over the air (Update 654.10); the bulletin expires May 31, 2028. GM PIT6411B (Sep 2025): loss of OnStar connectivity, internet/data or 'Service Emergency Calling' with DTC B1A1F/U3000 from K73 software. GM's documents do not mention battery drain; that link comes from owners. NHTSA complaints API keyword matches (gas-VIN subset, pulled 2026-10-21; case-insensitive search of complaint text, not confirmed failures): 35 MY2025 complaints have text matching OnStar/telematics, 15 of them with a battery drain or no-start
• The instrument cluster and center screen go black or reboot while driving, sometimes for several seconds, so the driver loses the speedometer and warning lights verified source
  System: In-car electronics · Applies to: all · Documented around: varies · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: dash and radio restarted while driving; both screens went black, couldn't see my speed; displays went blank for 5-7 seconds; center screen went black, headlight controls gone
  Source: GM PIC6629F (Sep 2026, covers 2025-2026 Equinox among about 110 GM models): display diagnostic tips for a whole display or both displays blank/black, flickering or rebooting. Dealers update the radio software, reboot it, and wiggle-test and reseat the LVDS cable before replacing the radio or display. NHTSA complaints API keyword matches (gas-VIN subset, pulled 2026-10-21; case-insensitive search of complaint text, not confirmed failures): 23 complaints match screen/display/cluster + black/blank/shut off (2025: 20, 2026: 3)
• Unwanted automatic emergency braking (forward or reverse) when nothing is in the way, the 'phantom braking' that owners describe commonly reported
  System: Brakes · Applies to: all · Documented around: varies · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: slammed on the brakes with no cars around; automatic emergency brake engaged pulling into a parking spot; brakes slam on when backing up
  Source: NHTSA complaints API keyword matches (gas-VIN subset, pulled 2026-10-21; case-insensitive search of complaint text, not confirmed failures): 41 complaints list FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE, and 21 match unexpected or automatic braking wording (2025: 12, 2026: 9). No GM bulletin specific to false AEB on the gas Equinox was found in the NHTSA manufacturer-communications index (423 documents for MY2025-2026)
• The side blind zone alert lights up or flashes with nothing in the next lane, often in rain verified source
  System: In-car electronics · Applies to: all · Documented around: varies · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: blind spot warning flashes when nothing is there; false blind side alerts on driver side; more common during rain or wet roads
  Source: GM PIT6468 (Dec 2025): 2025-2026 Equinox and Terrain, unwanted side object detection alert with no objects in the area. Engineering is root-causing it, and dealers should not replace parts unless SI finds a failed part. NHTSA complaints API keyword matches (gas-VIN subset, pulled 2026-10-21; case-insensitive search of complaint text, not confirmed failures): 12 complaints have text matching blind spot / side object alerts (2025: 4, 2026: 8)
• FWD CVT (VT40): internal damage to the drive chain, pulleys (sheaves) or bearings causes slipping, a grinding noise or no movement. Low-mileage cars can set P0796 from low CVT fluid verified source
  System: Transmission (major) · Applies to: 1.5T LSD / VT40 CVT · Documented around: P0796: generally low mileage (PIP6074 targets under 6,000 mi); damage: varies · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: transmission slipping; grind noise from inside the transmission; no movement; transmission shifted into neutral, lost motive power; check engine light, code P0796
  Source: GM PIP6033 (Dec 11, 2024): CVT noise, slip or loss of motion, caused by damage to the pulleys, drive chain or pulley bearings; borescope inspection per 20-NA-120; lists the 2025 Equinox with RPO MRQ. GM PIP6010B (Jul 2025, 2025-2026 Equinox VT40/MRQ): P0796 at low mileage; check the fluid level hot (140-176 F); if it is low, fill and clear; if P0796 comes back, replace the valve body. GM PIP6074 (Jun 2025): investigation into low fluid setting P0796 under 6,000 mi. A class action, Williams v. General Motors LLC, No. 1:26-cv-01162 (D. Del., filed Sep 15, 2026, pending, nothing proven), alleges clutch regulator, chain, pulley and bearing defects in the CVT of 2024-present Equinox models; the named plaintiff bought a new 2025 Equinox in Oct 2024
• AWD 8-speed (8T45) gets stuck in 1st gear with high RPM after shifting from reverse to drive in cold weather, when the transmission is below about 68 F and the driver uses light throttle verified source
  System: Transmission (minor) · Applies to: 1.5T LSD / 8T45 8AT · Documented around: varies · About: varies; cold weather
  Reported signs: stuck in 1st gear, engine revs very high; gets stuck on a certain gear; taking my foot off the accelerator helps
  Source: GM PIP6100 (Feb 2026): 2025-2026 Equinox and Terrain with transmission MGH (8T45); after a reverse-to-drive shift with transmission temperature below 20 C / 68 F and light throttle, the calibration thinks the selectable one-way clutch is still locked and won't upshift. No DTC. Lifting off the throttle lets it shift to 2nd. Do not replace parts; a fix is pending. NHTSA ODI 11760730 (2025 LT AWD): 'gets stuck on a certain gear ... I slowly take my foot off the accelerator, it often helps'
• No drive or no reverse with a check engine light (P07E5 / P073E) after an over-the-air software update verified source
  System: Transmission (minor) · Applies to: 1.5T LSD / VT40 CVT | 1.5T LSD / 8T45 8AT · Documented around: varies · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: transmission wouldn't go in reverse; Service Transmission warning, vehicle would not reverse; check engine light after an update
  Source: GM PIP6077B (Oct 2025): 2025 Equinox and Terrain with 8T45 (MGH) or VT40 (MRQ). No drive and/or no reverse with SES light and P07E5/P073E after an OTA update. Dealer clears DTCs and powers the car down for 10 min (0.3 hr labor op 8481178); if the condition doesn't return, no parts are needed
• Shimmy, shake or wobble felt in the seat, floor or steering wheel during moderate acceleration from a stop. The root cause hasn't been found verified source
  System: Drive system · Applies to: all · Documented around: from new · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: car wobbles and shimmies until about 15 mph; wobble and shake when I accelerate; feels like the car is wobbling side to side
  Source: GM PIT6466 (Dec 2025): 2025-2026 Equinox and Terrain, shimmy/shake/wobble during moderate acceleration in regular drive mode and sometimes in Low 2nd. Engineering is root-causing it; GM says there is no long-term durability concern. GM Authority article (Feb 28, 2026) on PIT6466 with owner comments reporting it on both 8-speed and CVT models. NHTSA complaints API keyword matches (gas-VIN subset, pulled 2026-10-21; case-insensitive search of complaint text, not confirmed failures): 3 MY2026 complaints have text matching keywords for a wobble/shimmy on acceleration
• Check engine light with P04DB / P04FB (crankcase ventilation). GM says it does not affect performance or reliability and a design improvement is coming. Owners say it comes on when it rains verified source
  System: Engine (minor) · Applies to: all · Documented around: varies · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: check engine light, code P04FB; check engine light comes on as soon as it rains; dealer cleared the code and it came back
  Source: GM PIP6059B (Oct 2025): 2025-2026 Equinox 1.5L LSD, MIL with P04DB or P04FB; engineering is working on a design improvement; refrain from replacing parts, clear the code and return the vehicle. GM PIP6096 (Jan 2026) notes a PCV design change on LSD camshaft covers starting in 2025. NHTSA complaints API keyword matches (gas-VIN subset, pulled 2026-10-21; case-insensitive search of complaint text, not confirmed failures): 4 MY2025 complaints have text matching P04FB/PCV/crankcase
• Surge, chuggle or hesitation on tip-in, or misfires across all 4 cylinders (P0300), from a skewed upstream (position 1) oxygen sensor verified source
  System: Fuel system/emissions · Applies to: all · Documented around: varies · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: engine misfired, bucking under acceleration; engine light flashing; shudder or hesitation on acceleration; codes P2097 P2251 P223C or P0300
  Source: GM PIP6071C (May 2026): 2023-2026 Equinox 1.5L LSD, surge/chuggle/hesitation or MIL with P2097, P2251, P223C, 'more noticeable on units built prior to April 1, 2025'; replace the position 1 O2 sensor and inspect the catalyst. GM PIP6128 (Aug 2026): 2025-2026 LSD shudder / all-cylinder misfire P0300; check for B52A position 1 O2 sensor skew. NHTSA ODI 11749865 (2026): 'Possible O2 sensor. Engine misfired, bucking under acceleration, engine light flashing'
• Engine oil leak at the left front corner from a misaligned charge-air-cooler outlet pipe connection verified source
  System: Engine (minor) · Applies to: all · Documented around: varies · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: front end started leaking oil; oil dripping at the left front
  Source: GM PIP6138 (Oct 15, 2026): 2025-2026 Equinox 1.5L LSD, potential oil leak at the LF corner, caused by misalignment of the charge air cooler outlet pipe connection. Measure the oil that runs out of the outlet tube: under 1/2 cup means replace the charge air cooler and outlet duct (start the cooler bolts loose); over 1/2 cup means follow the oil consumption diagnostics. NHTSA ODI 11711655 (2026 ACTIV AWD): front end leaking oil 4 weeks after purchase, 4 dealer visits including an engine replacement
• Reduced engine power (P0299, P0234, P0237, P1101) from a split, swollen or collapsing charge-air (turbo inlet) hose, a loose CAC hose, or a wastegate hose leak verified source
  System: Engine (minor) · Applies to: all · Documented around: varies · About: varies
  Reported signs: Engine Power Reduced message; hesitation, big lack of power at high RPM; check engine light, code P0299
  Source: GM PIP5927E (May 2026): 2023-2026 Equinox 1.5L LSD, reduced power with P0237/P0101/P1101/P0234/P0299. Diagnostic tips: wastegate actuator hose leaks; a soft, collapsing or swollen charge-air inlet hose under a shredded anti-abrasion sleeve; hoses pulled out of crimps on either side of the CAC
• Engine cooling fan fails internally (P0494), so the engine may overheat and the A/C stops working verified source
  System: Engine cooling · Applies to: all · Documented around: varies · About: varies
  Reported signs: check engine light, engine overheating; A/C stopped working; code P0494
  Source: GM PIP6019B (Jun 2025): 2024-2026 Equinox 1.5L LSD, MIL / possible overheating / inoperative cooling fan / inoperative A/C, DTC P0494 from potential internal cooling fan failure; replace the cooling fan (bumper-to-bumper labor op 4032260)
• Coolant leak at the water pump or water pump housing on 2026 models verified source
  System: Engine cooling · Applies to: all · Documented around: varies · About: under 1 year
  Reported signs: losing coolant; coolant leak near the water pump
  Source: GM PIP6106 (Mar 2026): 2026 Equinox and Terrain 1.5L LSD, potential coolant loss in the water pump area. Add tracer dye and pressure-test both hot and cold to find the exact leak point before replacing parts
• 'Service AWD' message (C11B7, C0090 or C0095) from a software issue in the rear differential clutch control module; the car may drop into two-wheel drive verified source
  System: Drive system · Applies to: 1.5T LSD / 8T45 8AT · Documented around: varies · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: Service All-Wheel Drive System warning; unexpectedly switched into two-wheel drive
  Source: GM PIT6270C (May 2025): 2025-2026 Equinox and Terrain, Service AWD message with C11B7.96, C0090.72 or C0095.72 from a software issue in the K47B rear differential clutch control module (DSAM). Update the ECM and clear codes; do not replace the module if it returns; a fix was pending. GM PIE0814B (May 2025) closed the related field data request. NHTSA complaints API keyword matches (gas-VIN subset, pulled 2026-10-21; case-insensitive search of complaint text, not confirmed failures): 3 complaints quote 'Service All-Wheel Drive'
• Moaning noise from the rear differential in AWD verified source
  System: Drive system · Applies to: 1.5T LSD / 8T45 8AT · Documented around: varies · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: moaning noise from the rear while in AWD
  Source: GM PIP6057 (Apr 2025): 2025-2026 Equinox and Terrain, moan noise from the rear differential in AWD; do not replace the rear differential; engineering is investigating
• Whine, growl or bearing noise from the front that sounds like the transmission but is actually the front wheel bearings verified source
  System: Suspension/steering · Applies to: 1.5T LSD / VT40 CVT | 1.5T LSD / 8T45 8AT · Documented around: low; a complaint cites about 343 mi · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: bearing noise within 300 miles; noise seems to come from the transmission; clunking sound from underneath, diagnosed as wheel bearings
  Source: GM PIT6272 (Oct 2024): 2025 Equinox with MRQ or MGH; front noise often loudest near the final drive or transmission case is often the front wheel bearings, amplified through the transmission; replace the front wheel bearings before replacing the transmission. NHTSA ODI 11674014 (2025, bearing noise from about 300 mi) and 11759727 (2026, wheel bearing diagnosed at about 343 mi)
• Clunk or creak from the front right before stopping, during launch, or in slow turns, traced to the rear bushing of the front lower control arm verified source
  System: Suspension/steering · Applies to: all · Documented around: varies · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: clunk right before stopping; creaking noise when turning slowly; front end suspension creaking
  Source: GM PIT6542A (Sep 2026): 2025-2027 Equinox and Terrain, clunking or creaking from the front during a stop, launch or slow turn, possibly the front lower control arm rear bushing; GM says there is no safety or long-term durability concern and a solution is pending. NHTSA ODI 11742937 (2026): 'Front end suspension creaking'
• Reduced braking performance with a limited top speed and a MIL on a small number of 2025s; owners describe a brake pedal that suddenly sinks or a brake failure warning verified source
  System: Brakes · Applies to: all · Documented around: low · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: brake pedal went to the floor, brake failure warning; master cylinder failed prematurely; sudden loss of braking performance
  Source: GM service update N252494220 (Jun 26, 2025): certain 2025 Equinox and Terrain (plus Cadillac XT4 and Corvette) may have reduced braking performance, a limited top speed and a MIL; dealers replace the brake master cylinder assembly (Equinox labor 2.8 hr); 'a small number of vehicles'; expires at the end of each vehicle's New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Not an NHTSA safety recall. NHTSA complaints ODI 11675398 (2025, cites N252494220), 11716660 and 11717192 (2026, master cylinder)
• Vibration, rattle or boom in the body at about 1,800-2,000 RPM under light load, caused by the Active Noise Cancellation system (an unseated headliner microphone or the calibration) verified source
  System: Body integrity (noises/leaks) · Applies to: all · Documented around: from new · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: vibrates hard like a rumble strip at about 1,700-2,000 rpm; loud humming sound while driving; boom from the speakers
  Source: GM TSB 24-NA-227 (Nov 2025, replaces PIT6237A and 24-NA-182): 2025-2026 Equinox and Terrain with RPO IVE; ANC microphones not fully seated in the headliner retainer, or the ANC calibration; reseat the microphones and reprogram the radio via SPS. NHTSA ODI 11655959 (2025): 'vibrates hard, like being on the rumble strip, but only while driving about 1.7 rpm to 2 rpm'
• Turn signal over-cancels: after a turn it flashes the opposite direction a few times verified source
  System: Power equipment/accessories · Applies to: all · Documented around: from new · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: turn signal starts flashing left after turning right; blinker bounces back and lights up the other side
  Source: GM TSB 24-NA-176 (Apr 2025, replaces PIT6190): 2025 Equinox (and 2024-2025 Equinox EV, other models), software anomaly; reprogram the BCM (0.3 hr). NHTSA complaints ODI 11619762, 11667197, 11741102 (2025)
• Windshield optical distortion (wavy or blurry areas, often on the passenger side) that sometimes stays after replacement windshields commonly reported
  System: Body hardware · Applies to: all · Documented around: from new · About: from new
  Reported signs: windshield is distorted, warped and wavy; blurry waves on the right hand side; replaced twice, same issue; makes me nauseous and dizzy
  Source: NHTSA complaints API keyword matches (gas-VIN subset, pulled 2026-10-21; case-insensitive search of complaint text, not confirmed failures): 10 complaints have text matching keywords for windshield distortion (2025: 5, 2026: 5; keyword distort/wavy/warp, hand-checked, 1 crack-only match removed), several after one or more replacements. Reddit r/Chevy thread '25 Equinox ACTIV windshield issue' (Aug 7, 2025) reports the same after 3 OEM replacements. No GM bulletin for the gas Equinox windshield was found in the NHTSA manufacturer-communications index
• The column-mounted electronic gear selector is hard to get into gear, or gets mistaken for the wiper stalk commonly reported
  System: Transmission (minor) · Applies to: all · Documented around: from new · About: from new
  Reported signs: takes over six attempts to get in the right gear; gear selector looks and moves like a wiper lever; shifter becomes extremely difficult to put into gear
  Source: NHTSA complaints API keyword matches (gas-VIN subset, pulled 2026-10-21; case-insensitive search of complaint text, not confirmed failures): 7 complaints have text matching keywords for the column shifter (ODI 11669810, 11671755, 11682275, 11684315, 11700383, 11709597, 11762382). The column-mounted selector is a design feature of this generation (Wikipedia, fourth generation section)
• Loud moan or hydraulic noise from the rear when walking up to the car, opening the door or at first start (fuel pump priming) verified source
  System: Fuel system/emissions · Applies to: all · Documented around: varies · About: varies
  Reported signs: loud moan from the rear when I approach the car; hydraulic noise at first start
  Source: GM PIT6555 (Oct 2026): 2025-2027 Equinox and Terrain, during priming the fuel pump pressure may exceed the relief valve opening pressure, causing pump noise; do not replace parts; an update is pending
• Stall, or a no-start with a clicking starter and many U-codes, from ground straps G111/G112 not torqued correctly verified source
  System: Electrical/charging · Applies to: all · Documented around: low · About: under 1 year
  Reported signs: starter clicks, won't start; stalled with lots of warning messages
  Source: GM PIT6282A (Nov 2024): 2025 Equinox and Terrain, possible stall or no-start with a clicking starter and DTCs U0140/U0401/U0402/U1611/U1627/U1643/U1818/U1962/U197A/U3003/B1A7A; G111 and/or G112 may not be properly torqued
• Rough idle and misfire on the first cold start (P050D), mostly in bad weather verified source
  System: Engine (minor) · Applies to: all · Documented around: varies · About: varies; cold or wet weather
  Reported signs: rough idle and sputtering at start-up; check engine light after sitting in the snow
  Source: GM PIP6042A (Apr 2025): 2025 Equinox and Terrain 1.5L LSD, intermittent rough idle on initial cold start with possible P050D, more in inclement weather; engineering is investigating; do not replace the ECM
• Rear liftgate glass breaks unexpectedly (GM engineering is gathering data) verified source
  System: Body hardware · Applies to: all · Documented around: varies · About: under 2 years
  Reported signs: liftgate glass shattered
  Source: GM PIE0837 (May 2025): 2025-2026 Equinox and Terrain with the 1.5L LSD, liftgate glass breaking unexpectedly; engineering is gathering information before repairs to find the root cause. No NHTSA complaint describing liftgate glass breakage was found in the gas-VIN subset
• Creaking or chattering in the dash when the HVAC mode is changed after the system warms up verified source
  System: Climate system · Applies to: all · Documented around: varies · About: varies
  Reported signs: creaking noise in the dash when switching floor to defrost
  Source: GM PIT6556 (Oct 2026): 2025-2027 Equinox and Terrain, mode door rubbing the HVAC case as it expands when warm; the mode door keeps working; do not replace parts; engineering is investigating

Recon cost reference

Estimates from the sources shown, priced as of 2026-10-21. Your shop rate, parts sourcing and the car's actual condition decide the real number. These are not quotes.

Powertrains

Engine and transmission combinations documented for this generation. Which one a given car has can only be confirmed from the VIN or the car itself. Some items above apply only to certain powertrains.

• 1.5L LSD turbocharged I4 (VIN engine code G) with VT40 continuously variable transmission (GM RPO MRQ), High Performance CVT Fluid, FWD, model years 2025–2026
  Source: Wikipedia, Chevrolet Equinox article, fourth generation section (fetched 2026-10-21) (FWD uses a CVT for 2025-26; the CVT is dropped for 2027); GM PIP6010B and PIP6074 (2025-2026 Equinox, RPO MRQ, 'VT40'); 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Owner's Manual (GM publication 18110620, Aug 2024), Service and Maintenance section (HPCVTF; engine code G)
• 1.5L LSD turbocharged I4 (VIN engine code G) with 8T45 8-speed automatic (GM RPO MGH), DEXRON-VI, AWD, model years 2025–2026
  Source: Wikipedia, Chevrolet Equinox article, fourth generation section (fetched 2026-10-21) (AWD uses the 8-speed); GM PIP6100 (2025-2026 Equinox, transmission MGH, '8T45 variants') and TSB 24-NA-260 (2025 Equinox, MGH); 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Owner's Manual (GM publication 18110620, Aug 2024), Service and Maintenance section (DEXRON-VI)

NHTSA recalls: verify this VIN

A recall that applies to a model is not proof that a specific car has an open recall. Whether this VIN is affected, and whether the repair was done, is shown by NHTSA's VIN lookup. Check it before you bid.

NHTSA campaigns listed for this generation when it was researched (2026-10-21): 26V114000. The list may be out of date.

Manufacturer bulletins (TSBs)

Technical service bulletins are the manufacturer's own guidance to its dealers. A bulletin is not a recall and does not mean a repair is free. Coverage depends on the manufacturer's terms and the VIN.

• GM service update N262547330 rev. 02 (May 2026)
  Telematic Control Module may enter an unrecoverable state; reprogram it (or update over the air via 654.10) and replace it if needed
  free service update; expires May 31, 2028
  Source: NHTSA documents MC-11032936, MC-11032455, MC-11031366
• GM PIT6411B (Sep 2025)
  Loss of OnStar connectivity, 'Service Emergency Calling', DTC B1A1F/U3000 from K73 telematics software
  warranty repair
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11023903
• GM PIC6629F (Sep 2026)
  Display diagnostic tips: cluster and/or radio blank, black, flickering or rebooting; software update, reboot, LVDS cable checks before replacing the radio/display
  diagnostic tip; warranty repair
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11037320
• GM PIT6468 (Dec 2025)
  Unwanted side object detection alert with no object present
  engineering investigating; do not replace parts
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11026725
• GM PIP6033 (Dec 2024)
  CVT noise, slip or loss of motion from drive chain, pulley (sheave) or bearing damage; 2025 Equinox RPO MRQ
  5 yr/60,000 mi powertrain warranty
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11011865 · applies to 1.5T LSD / VT40 CVT
• GM PIP6010B (Jul 2025)
  VT40 P0796 at low mileage: check fluid level hot, fill if low; replace valve body if P0796 persists (not the solenoid valve body)
  powertrain warranty, 0.4 hr fluid check
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11020683 · applies to 1.5T LSD / VT40 CVT
• GM PIP6074 (Jun 2025)
  Investigation into low CVT fluid setting P0796 (under 6,000 mi, no accident, no prior transmission repair: call GM engineering contacts first)
  engineering investigation
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11019840 · applies to 1.5T LSD / VT40 CVT
• GM PIP6100 (Feb 2026)
  8T45 stuck in 1st gear after reverse-to-drive in cold (<68 F) with light throttle; calibration issue, no DTC
  do not replace parts; fix pending
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11028702 · applies to 1.5T LSD / 8T45 8AT
• GM TSB 24-NA-260 (Nov 2024)
  8-speed may not use or hold 8th gear on the highway; this is normal operation and replacing transmission parts will not change it
  information only
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11011963 · applies to 1.5T LSD / 8T45 8AT
• GM PIP6077B (Oct 2025)
  No drive / no reverse with P07E5/P073E after an OTA update (8T45 MGH or VT40 MRQ), 2025 Equinox; clear DTCs and power down
  powertrain warranty, 0.3 hr
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11024774 · applies to 1.5T LSD / VT40 CVT | 1.5T LSD / 8T45 8AT
• GM PIP6121 (Jun 2026)
  Speedometer/odometer wrong after internal CVT repair because a parts-catalog error led to the wrong final drive / transfer gear (parts 24292965, 24273376)
  engineering correcting the catalog; make no repair attempts
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11033990 · applies to 1.5T LSD / VT40 CVT
• GM program N262566800 (Oct 2026)
  Incorrect transmission parts used; dealers replace the CVT transaxle (only 6 VINs: 5 MY2025, 1 MY2026)
  customer satisfaction program, free; in effect until Nov 30, 2028
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11038608 · applies to 1.5T LSD / VT40 CVT
• GM PIT6466 (Dec 2025)
  Shimmy, shake or wobble during moderate acceleration from a stop
  engineering investigating; no durability concern per GM
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11026602
• GM PIP6059B (Oct 2025)
  MIL with P04DB/P04FB; design improvement in progress; clear code, do not replace parts
  no parts replacement advised
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11024443
• GM PIP6071C (May 2026)
  Chuggle/surge/hesitation, P2097/P2251/P223C from skewed position 1 O2 sensor; more noticeable on units built before Apr 1, 2025
  warranty repair
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11032785
• GM PIP6128 (Aug 2026)
  LSD shudder / all-cylinder misfire P0300; check for B52A position 1 O2 sensor skew
  warranty repair
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11036212
• GM PIP6138 (Oct 2026)
  Oil leak at LF corner from charge air cooler outlet pipe misalignment; replace CAC and outlet duct if under 1/2 cup of oil collected
  warranty repair
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11038595
• GM PIP5927E (May 2026)
  Reduced power P0237/P0101/P1101/P0234/P0299: charge air inlet hose split/collapse, wastegate hose leaks, unseated CAC hoses (2023-2026 LSD)
  diagnostic tip; warranty repair
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11032946
• GM PIP6019B (Jun 2025)
  MIL / overheating / inoperative cooling fan and A/C with P0494; replace cooling fan (2024-2026 LSD)
  bumper-to-bumper warranty
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11019835
• GM PIP6106 (Mar 2026)
  2026 LSD coolant loss in water pump area; dye and pressure test to pinpoint the leak
  diagnostic tip
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11030358
• GM PIP6109 (Apr 2026)
  2026 LSD MIL with U060F/U1346/P0102: check MAF screen for debris, B75 MAF terminal tension, power/ground (G102) and LIN bus
  diagnostic tip
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11031277
• GM PIP6042A (Apr 2025)
  Cold-start rough idle / misfire P050D, worse in inclement weather; do not replace ECM
  engineering investigating
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11016666
• GM PIT6270C (May 2025)
  Service AWD message, C11B7/C0090/C0095, rear differential clutch control module software; update ECM, do not replace module
  bumper-to-bumper, 0.5 hr
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11018653 · applies to 1.5T LSD / 8T45 8AT
• GM PIP6057 (Apr 2025)
  Rear differential moan in AWD; do not replace rear differential
  engineering investigating
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11016987 · applies to 1.5T LSD / 8T45 8AT
• GM PIT6272 (Oct 2024)
  Front whine/growl that seems to come from the transmission is often the front wheel bearings; replace bearings before the transmission
  warranty repair
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11011486 · applies to 1.5T LSD / VT40 CVT | 1.5T LSD / 8T45 8AT
• GM PIT6542A (Sep 2026)
  Front clunk/creak at stop, launch or slow turn; front lower control arm rear bushing
  solution pending; no safety concern per GM
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11037259
• GM service update N252494220 (Jun 2025)
  2025 Equinox reduced brake performance / limited top speed / MIL; replace brake master cylinder assembly (2.8 hr)
  free; expires at end of New Vehicle Limited Warranty
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11019781
• GM TSB 24-NA-227 (Nov 2025)
  Vibration, rattle or boom at 1,800-2,000 RPM from Active Noise Cancellation microphones/calibration (RPO IVE)
  warranty repair
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11025996
• GM TSB 24-NA-176 (Apr 2025)
  Turn signal over-cancelling; reprogram BCM (2025 Equinox)
  warranty repair, 0.3 hr
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11019459
• GM program N242489010 (Feb 2025)
  2025 Equinox possible fuel leak at one of the four injectors in the fuel rail; dealers replace all four injectors (2.6 hr)
  customer satisfaction program, free; in effect until Feb 28, 2027
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11013417
• GM PIT6282A (Nov 2024)
  Stall or no-start with clicking starter and multiple U-codes; check torque of grounds G111/G112
  warranty repair
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11011319
• GM PIT6555 (Oct 2026)
  Loud fuel pump moan during priming (approach, door open, first start); do not replace parts
  update pending
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11038584
• GM PIT6556 (Oct 2026)
  Creak/chatter in dash on HVAC mode change when warm; do not replace parts
  engineering investigating
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11038588
• GM PIE0837 (May 2025)
  Liftgate glass breaking unexpectedly; engineering data gathering
  engineering information; contact GM engineer before repair
  Source: NHTSA document MC-11023267

Warranty and program notes

Extended coverage and special programs documented for this generation. Eligibility depends on the VIN, so verify it with the manufacturer. Do not assume a program does or does not apply.

• Factory coverage: 3 yr/36,000 mi bumper-to-bumper and 5 yr/60,000 mi powertrain. The powertrain coverage excludes sensors, wiring, the starter motor and the entire pressurized fuel system (in-tank fuel pump, injectors, fuel rail). Those parts fall under bumper-to-bumper only. Catalytic converters, the ECM and the TCM are covered 8 yr/80,000 mi as federal emissions select components, and the charge air cooler and turbocharger are on the emissions warranty parts list verified source
  Source: 2025 Chevrolet Limited Warranty and Owner Assistance Information booklet (GM publication 18450409)
• Telematics module service update N262547330 (reprogram, replace if needed) is free and expires May 31, 2028 verified source
  Source: GM service update N262547330 rev. 02 (NHTSA document MC-11032936)
• Fuel injector program N242489010 (2025 Equinox) is free and runs until Feb 28, 2027 verified source
  Source: GM program N242489010 (NHTSA document MC-11013417)
• Brake master cylinder service update N252494220 (2025 Equinox) ends when each vehicle's New Vehicle Limited Warranty ends verified source
  Source: GM service update N252494220 (NHTSA document MC-11019781)
• No GM special coverage or extended warranty for the CVT was found. Williams v. General Motors LLC (D. Del. No. 1:26-cv-01162, filed Sep 15, 2026) is a proposed class action over the CVT in 2024-present Equinox models. It has no class certification and no settlement, and its claims are unproven allegations commonly reported
  Source: NHTSA manufacturer-communications index for MY2025-2026 Equinox (423 documents, pulled 2026-10-21); CourtListener and Justia dockets for 1:26-cv-01162; class action complaint (classaction.org copy)

NHTSA complaint records

NHTSA records show 310 consumer complaints on file for model years 2025–2026 (pulled 2026-10-21). These are tallies of complaints that name a component, matched on NHTSA's component field. They are not failure rates, and a complaint is a consumer report, not a finding that a part failed. A complaint naming several components counts once toward each; computed over all API results, including the EV-VIN complaints described in notes.

• ELECTRICAL SYSTEM90
• UNKNOWN OR OTHER63
• FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE56
• POWER TRAIN51
• SERVICE BRAKES49
• VISIBILITY/WIPER32
• ENGINE30
• FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM19
• LANE DEPARTURE16
• EXTERIOR LIGHTING15

Sources and when this was researched

Last researched: 2026-10-21. VehicleIQ research for this generation; each item above names its own source and whether it is a verified source or commonly reported. Details change, so treat this as a starting point for your inspection.