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2011 Chevy Equinox Problems

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Comments

  • gmcustsvcgmcustsvc Member Posts: 4,252
    Hello,

    Sorry to hear that you are having difficulties with your Equinox. If you need another dealership to check your vehicle, we'd be more than happy to locate one for you. If there is anything you would like for us to look into for this issue please let us know.

    Regards

    Amber N.
    GM Customer Care
  • kazisalamkazisalam Member Posts: 3
    I have almost the same problem. I bought 2011 Equinox V6 AWD LTZ in December 2010. About 32k in it now. I am not at all happy with it. Took it to the dealership(Bolton GM- from where I bought it) today after work. After keeping me standing about 47minutes, the service lady finally talked to me with full of negative attitude. Luckily, another gentleman came out may be their service Manager and tried to treat me in same way. Finally, they arranged a loaner car for me from a nearby rental place. This is really strange that they never even told me about the recall. They should have correct it long before. Plan to drive it 2/3 more months. Car is with the dealership now. Appreciate any advise in this connection please.
  • gmcustsvcgmcustsvc Member Posts: 4,252
    Hi kazisalam,

    I apologize that you were not properly greeted at the dealership and not given the service you deserve. We trust that the dealership will be able to address your concerns and correct the problems you are experiencing. If you would like for us to reach out to your dealership on your behalf for further details please let us know.

    Amber N.
    GM Customer Care
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    Some dealers lack basic "human relations skills!" The staff in the service department does not understand that "high quality / timely / professional service," delivered by people with "human relations skills" sells vehicles! ---- YES, the service department sells new and used vehicles. ----- When will both the vehicle manufacturers, and the dealers understand this most basic business concept. ---- If the vehicle has a "problem," deal with the problem in an efficient / professional manner, and deal with the customer in a professional manner. Do not compound the problem by having a "negative attitude!" Vehicles are very expensive, and customers expect to be treated properly. I have two vehicles, a Camry and a Malibu. When I present my vehicles for service I am greeted in a professional manner. Since I have made an appointment with my Service Advisor in advance, I am escorted into his office, and the Service Write Up takes only a few minutes. Usually I present the writer with a hand written note outlining the requested service. Once the paper work is completed, I go to the local diner for breakfast. The Service Writer has my Cell Phone number so I can conduct business while having a leisurely breakfast. ----- THERE IS NO JUSTIFICATION FOR LESS THAN PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR OF THE SERVICE DESK PERSONNEL! ---- If I owned a dealership that treated "my customer base" in a "negative manner" I would first get them trained to change their behavior, and if that did not work, I would terminate their employment! ----- Just my opinion! ----- Dwayne
  • kazisalamkazisalam Member Posts: 3
    Hi Amber,

    Thank you very much for your response.
    I also trusted them in in the same way and want to see how they respect our trust in the long run. One of the gentlemen (may be their service Manager) told me to wait till next Monday. Mean time, it would be so nice of you if you can contact them at your convenience, just in case they need any technical help from your end to fix the vehicle in a correct way.

    Best regards.

    kazisalam
  • nox123nox123 Member Posts: 76
    Hello Dwayne...you are spot on old boy; I'm not sure if GM or Edmonds should recruit and hire you? You have good basic common sense and drive the message home! The challenged vehical owners on forum should really listen closly to your words of advise....
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    Nox123:
    Thank you for your VERY kind words and for your support! I have owned a number of GM vehicles in my life time along with Ford & Chrysler. I have owned Buicks, Oldsmobiles, and Chevrolets and I have always been very satisfied with the product and the performance of the product. My father was a 100% GM customer. It is a shame that Equinox customers are being treated in a "shabby unprofessional fashion" after spending their hard earned money on a vehicle. I have been around technology all of my life, and when my friends were playing sports, I was taking engines apart at the local garage. You might say that there is 10W30 oil in my veins rather than blood. Even if the 2.4 Equinox engine did not have the fuel pump issue, the four cylinder engines are working VERY hard, and as such, changing oil at 5,000 mile intervals is just looking for engine trouble. YES, the GM engineers are giving the owners of these vehicles the wrong advice. Maybe in a laboratory an engine can go 5,000 miles between oil and filter changes, but in the REAL WORLD OF DAILY USE engine oil should be changed every 2,500 miles. Oil is the life blood of the four cylinder engines. My 2010 LTZ Malibu gets this type of maintenance, and when I check the oil level weekly, the oil is a clean as the day that I took delivery of the vehicle. I drive this vehicle daily both in the city and on the highway, and I NEVER use any oil between oil & filter changes. I also use a fuel additive at every fill up, and my engine is VERY smooth and quiet! (It was NOT that way when I took delivery of the vehicle. The fuel additive made a BIG difference.) ----- GM needs to "step up," and take responsibility for the quality of the Equinox, and in the process, make things right with the customers. I personally like GM vehicles. When I purchased the 2010 Malibu, I was also looking at the four cylinder Equinox, but the Equinox did not come with a "power seat" on the passenger side! ---- Doesn't GM think that the front seat passenger might like to adjust their seat too? --- I would like to meet the people who make these marketing decisions!

    Best regards! ------------- Dwayne
  • bonnanobonnano Member Posts: 9
    WOW Dealers are the issue with GM and why after reading this I would not buy one.

    The best advice I ever received when buying a car is spend a half a day sitting in every dealer's service waiting area and listening in on the the service advisors treatment of customer BEFORE even walking the lot. Since service is where you will live after the sale talk to people having theirs repaired under warranty and get a feel for the car and the service. GREAT service will make me buy a mediocre car. Poor service and I will stay far away. This is especially important when there is only one or two dealers in town for a particular brand.
  • gmcustsvcgmcustsvc Member Posts: 4,252
    kazisalam,

    I am unable to provide the dealership with any technical assistance, but I can definitely reach out to them to see how your repair is going. If your vehicle is still with the dealership, can you please send me their name and location so that I may contact them?

    Thanks

    Amber N.
    GM Customer Care
  • kazisalamkazisalam Member Posts: 3
    Thank you again Amber.
    Yes, the car is still with Bolton GM Motor Products, 12420 Highway 50, Bolton, Ontario L7E 1M7. Tel: 905 857 3677.
    Best regards.
    kazisalam
  • gmcustsvcgmcustsvc Member Posts: 4,252
    Hi kazisalam,

    I would love to reach out to your dealership, but unfortunately we can only assist if you are within the United States. I'm very sorry for this mix-up. You can contact GM Canada and they'll be able to look more into this for you as well.

    Kind Regards

    Amber N.
    GM Customer Care
  • cgoode3cgoode3 Member Posts: 8
    Dwayne - do you have a recommendation for the fuel additive? Also - do you think that filling up with regular grade gasoline is sufficient for the four cylinder Equinox?
  • ray80ray80 Member Posts: 1,655
    edited September 2013
    Not Dwayne, but it appears many people like techron fuel additive once in a while, not every fill-up. Premium or mid-grade fuel usually wouldn't help with anything in an engine not designed to run on it (and the Nox isn't). Top tier fuel might be a good idea. If you live in an area that has Chevron fuel, it is top tier and already has the techron additive in it.
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    edited September 2013
    There are two products that I would consider. ---- They are Lucas Upper Cylinder Lubricant, and Marvel Mystery Oil. ---- I use MMO in the FUEL of all my vehicles at a rate of FOUR OUNCES to every ten gallons of fuel. ---- I believe the the same ratio is also for LUCL. ----- I use MMO because it is cheaper, and it does the job in my boat, cars, and yard equipment. ------ I do not work for any of these two companies and I do not sell these products, so I have nothing to gain or loose by sharing this information. ----- If it runs on gasoline I put MMO in the fuel. ----- My 2007 V8 XLE Camry, and my 2010 2.4 LTZ Malibu have had MMO in the fuel since they were purchased new. ---- I change the oil and filter in both vehicles at the dealership every 2,500 miles. ----- The Toyota Dealer recommends an oil additive called BG / MOA to prevent a build up of sludge. I have used this product in the Camry since it was new. The Camry has about 85,000+ miles, and I have NEVER added oil between oil and filter changes. ----- The Malibu has about 48,000+ miles, and I have NEVER added oil between oil and filter changes. The four cylinder engine is VERY quiet and smooth in operation. ---- It was not that way when I took delivery of the vehicle. It sounded like a typical American Four Cylinder Coffee Grinder. --- On could winter mornings, I warm up my vehicles before I drive the vehicle. If there is ice and snow on the vehicle it might take ten minutes to get the heat up to melt the ice and snow. Did you know that on cold winter mornings with ice and snow on the car and on the ground it might take 20 to 30 minutes for the transmission fluid to come up to the normal engine temperature of 180 / 190 degrees. ----- In the boating world, captains NEVER leave the dock until their engines are up to normal operating temperature. Why is it important for a boat and not for a land based vehicle? ----- All the best. ------ Dwayne
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    With regards to the "grade of gasoline" I would go with the recommendations in the "owners manual!" ---------- BUT, I would purchase my gasoline from a vendor that pumps a lot of fuel so as to insure that the fuel is fresh! ------ On occasion, I might "top off" with a few gallons of 92 in my vehicles on a long trip. ---- Both my V6 Camry and four cylinder Malibu take 87 gasoline, and both vehicles get 30+mpg at 55mph. ----- I always use my fuel additive at every fill up! I pour it into the tank prior to fueling so the product mixes with the in coming fuel. ---------- All the best! ------- Dwayne
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    edited September 2013
    Boat owners are dumb - they keep throwing money in a big hole in the water. Harley owners do the long warm up thing too, and those engines always sound like noisy rattletraps. :-)

    I've lived in cold country a long time off and on - (20 years in Anchorage, currently in the UP on Lake Superior). Idling an engine just wastes gas and does little, if anything for the other moving parts, especially the transmission. There's no combustion source in a transmission and it takes a long time for any heat to permeate via the torque converter just from idling.

    Better just to get in and go (gently) for the first mile or two. (Vehicle Warm-Up)

    My buddy with a jet boat up in Seward AK doesn't idle his Ford 406, not that you can idle a jet boat in place without staying tied up, unless you get one with a tranny (and the added weight). Takes him 5 minutes to get out of the harbor and then he cuts and runs. And talk about throwing money down the drain - that's his boat. :-)
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    Good Morning Stever:

    Kindly be advised that I did not know that "boat owners are dumb!" ------ Thank you so much for "sharing that information with me" since my business deals with marinas, marine suppliers, and boat owners. ---- I will be sure to share your comments as the "host of this board" with them at every opportunity!

    Please be advised that automatic transmissions have cooling lines for the trans fluid that run from the trans to the cooling system of the engine. ---- So while the trans fluid is being cooled while the vehicle in traveling on the road, the reverse is also true when the temperature is cold, and the engine is first started. The fluid does pick up some heat from the cooling system of the engine. This changes the viscosity of the cold trans fluid, and allows it to flow more easily. Personally, I do not care if anyone "warms up their engine" on a cold winter morning. ---- That is a personal choice of the owner of the vehicle. ---- I have chosen to take this action, and as such, I live with the choices that I make. ---- It doesn't make me "smart" nor does it make me "dumb." It is simply a choice about my vehicle, like changing my oil and filter every 2,500 miles rather then 5,000 miles as stated in the owner's manual. ---- On the other side of the issue, my vehicle never uses oil in the 100,000 miles of ownership. (I trade my vehicles at 100,000 miles) ----- Am I doing something good? I don't know, but my engines & transmissions are trouble free for 100,000 miles, so I am not doing any harm. Does it cost me some fuel to take this action? ---- YES! ---- It is just the cost of owning a vehicle. ---- I DO NOT want to fight with you. We simply have a different opinion about this issue, but please DO NOT call me "dumb in a public forum!

    Kindly be advised that I have been posting many times on this board trying to be of assistance to people who have a "major issue" with the Equinox. ---- I NEVER used a "negative comment" to describe a group of people. ---- As a "boat owner myself" I DO NOT appreciate being called "dumb," and I do not think that this type of communication belongs on this professional site!

    Best regards to everyone. ----- Dwayne
  • ray80ray80 Member Posts: 1,655
    'I trade my vehicles at 100,000 miles'
    Only 100k miles? My recent daily drivers are just getting broken in by then :)
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    edited September 2013
    I've had over a dozen boats over the years. Surely you've heard that joke over and over again. I'm sure your suppliers have too - I bet some of them even sell the saying on knickknacks. That was the intent of my comment.

    You can do what you like but my experience in following the manufacturer's recommendations in the manual are as valid as your choice to double or triple up on the fluid changes. Where does it say in your manual to idle your car for ten minutes before moving?

    I've had four cars since '82, mostly in "extreme" weather places, and they all were driven at least a decade. Still driving two of them (at 192k on the van and trying for a personal best of 200k next year). None of them routinely got warmed up and I've never had any transmission work done other than scheduled maintenance. (I don't have much memory of the cars I drove in the late 60s and 70s - the Bugs and Datsuns were good, the CJ-5 okay, Volvos awful. Mostly they were used beaters and only kept a year or three).

    If I had followed your example, I'd be in the same position, but I'd have wasted a lot of good oil over the last 30 odd years, not to mention lost time and dollars.
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    Being in sales, I need a vehicle that is "under warranty" while I am on the road. -- If something happens, I need transportation immediately, (a loaner car), and I need my vehicle repaired ASAP at a dealer. An "extended warranty for 100,000 miles" gives me the protection of dealer service, and a loaner vehicle while my vehicle is being serviced. ------- My vehicle is my office while on the road! ----- All the best! ----------- Dwayne
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    Ray, --- the next time I trade in my vehicle, I will let you know the location of the dealer, and you can purchase the vehicle. ---- It might have 100,000 miles on the clock, but the oil was changed every 2,500 miles, and most of the miles were highway miles at 55 +mph! ----- {The down side is that I warm up my engine before I drive in the winter, and I use a fuel additive at every fill up!} ----- (Two things that the manufacturer does not recommend!) ----- But you cannot have everything! ------------ Dwayne
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    Good Morning All:

    I did some research on the "net" about the Chevrolet Equinox. I came up with a VERY INTERESTING "YouTube" posting by the owner of this vehicle. ----- The title of the YouTube posting is: ----"My Journey with Chevy ---- I will never do it again!" -----www.youtube.com. ------ I think this presentation does "justice" to the problem. ---- Take the time to "pull this posting up" and enjoy. ---- YES, GM and the Chevrolet Dealers are now getting the "recognition" that fits the "build quality," and the "customer satisfaction" of owning the Chevrolet Equinox! ----- The "Equinox Issue" is now becoming for GM, what the "Toyota Engine Sludge Issue" of years ago was to Toyota! ---- Keep ignoring the customers, and you will be "out of business again soon." ----- While I like my 2.4 LTZ Malibu, I do not like how GM is treating other customers who purchased the Equinox, because I almost purchased the Equinox in 2010. ----- This could have been me! ----- Best regards to all! ----- Have a GREAT day! ----- Dwayne
  • radrideradride Member Posts: 2
    I have a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox and I have experienced 3 computer updates, 2 sets of solenoids, a replacement head and now a new timing Chain, the engine has been noisy has strange random flat spots when accelerating and in the last week has started to sound like a Diesel, so now they are saying that the bottom end is failing. My dealer has been fantastic and agrees that they have seen this before on other 2.4 Ecotec engines, I am pretty much at the end of wanting to keep on going with these issues one after another. Has anyone been experiencing this many issues in 60000 Kms of use?
  • radrideradride Member Posts: 2
    Oil is not going to save these engines, they have multiple issues and if a modern engine cannot go more than 2500 miles on synthetic oil, the engine is simply no good! I have a 2011 Equinox with all these issues, and if I changed the oil at 5000kms I think that is an environmental pig, I downsized to a 4 cylinder to save money and the environment, my 6.2 litre V8 has nearly 300000kms on it and it gets oil changes about every 8000-12000kms, it gets 18mpg, my Equinox does not get better than 24mpg and it burns about 1/2 a quart of oil every 1000kms. You say you change the oil in your Toyota every 2500 miles, that is 34 oil changes in the mileage you have stated, plus you say you put additives in the gas! Here in Montreal, Quebec Canada, Gas is over $6.00 a gallon, so additives are out and changing synthetic oil every 5000kms at a cost here of $139.95 would make my Equinox the most expensive vehicle to run ever! I think I should have bought that Hummer2 I liked !
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    Good Morning Radride:

    Kindly be advised that the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu that I own does NOT have the 2.4 Direct Injection Engine. It has a 2.4 four cylinder engine but it is a NON DIRECT INJECTION engine. When I purchased this vehicle I almost purchased the 2010 2.4 Chevrolet Equinox. The only thing that stopped me was that the "top of the line Equinox" DID NOT have a power seat on the passenger side of the vehicle. What was GM thinking by not offering a power seat for the front seat passenger? This prevented me from owning this vehicle.

    Both my 2007 Toyota V6 XLE Camry and my 2010 Chevrolet 2.4 Malibu DO NOT use Synthetic Engine Oil. They are both serviced at the selling dealership, and the dealership uses regular non-synthetic oil for the oil and filter changes.

    Kindly be advised that I did NOT suggest that frequent oil and filter changes would solve the 2.4 engine problems with the Equinox. The Equinox engine has serious design flaws starting with the high pressure fuel pump that allows raw gasoline into the engine oil, thus thinning out the oil, and destroying the timing chain, cylinder walls, piston rings and main bearings,

    My posting was all about GM not stepping up to correct the problem in a proactive fashion. These engine need to be replaced, NOT repaired! The dealers and GM know this but both are dragging their feet, and the customers are paying the price by being inconvenienced, and driving vehicles that are unsafe. The question is "Why are the customers being treated in this fashion?"

    In terms of frequent oil and filter changes, kindly be advised that since my vehicle DO NOT USE synthetic oil, the cost of an oil and filter changes is not that expensive. Toyotas have been know to be "sludge producing engines" so it is just maintenance on my part. On the other side of the issue, the 2.4 engine in the Malibu works very hard and I believe in giving it some tender loving care. I easily get 30 + mpg on the highway without any problem with both vehicles.

    In terms of fuel additives, I use them because the gasoline today contains alcohol. Alcohol cleans but it is NOT a lubricant. Both the fuel system, and the upper cylinder components of the engine need some type of a lubricant in the fuel My engines are VERY quiet. When I took delivery of the Malibu, the 2.4 engine sounded like a typical American Coffee Grinder. It is now as smooth as a Honda four cylinder engine.

    In terms of protecting the environment, kindly be advised that I am protecting the environment by having two engines that are operating a peek efficiency. On the other side of the issue, I DO NOT BELIEVE IN GLOBAL WARMING!

    Best regards! --------- Dwayne
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    edited September 2013
    No one in here said anything about global warming - the issue is waste of resources.

    Stop Changing Your Oil

    Here's what Chevy says:

    Oil Change - Changing The 3,000-Mile Oil Myth
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    Hi Stever:

    My comment about "global warming" was "humor!" ---- You know, ----- a "joke!" ---- Oil changing is very much like believing in a particular religion! ----- You either believe, --- or --- you do not believe in the frequent process! ----- There is no in-between! ---- I have seen the "light" so I am a believer! ----- Using fuel additives is very much like taking daily vitamins. ---- Some people and doctors think it is a good idea, and some people and doctors think it is a waste of money! ----- The final choice is up to the individual! ---- I take a load of nutritional supplements, and I have the blood pressure of a 21 year old, and I am far from being 21! ---- All the best to you and everyone else on this board! ----- Dwayne
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    edited September 2013
    I'm 40 years past 21 too. :sick: :-)

    My daddy was a pharmacist and my mom's a retired RN. You had to be sick a week before he'd bring any samples home, much less "supplements". We don't do vitamins either LOL.

    You'd probably like Amsoil. They sell motor oil, additives and their sister company (Altrum) sells nutritional stuff.
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    Stever:

    I think Amsoil has outstanding products, but I think that the price is kind of high. ---- But many people use these products, and again that is a personal choice. --- (I do not think that I could bring "Amsoil oil" to my servicing dealers, and have them install this product in my engines. ----- You know "extended warranty issues!") --- I am sure that their "additives" do an outstanding job as intended, but I am happy with Lucas Upper Cylinder Lubricant, (LUCL) and / or Marvel Mystery Oil, (MMO). ------ Most of my nutritional supplements I purchase from The Vitamin Shop, a chain in New Jersey. ---- Everything is life is a choice, and we all have to live with the choices we make. ---- A perfect example is the Equinox Issue. ---- People purchased this vehicle in good faith, and now they are living with their choices, both good or bad! ---- I almost purchased a 2010 Equinox when I purchased my 2010 Malibu. I got lucky, but I feel VERY bad for the people who purchased this product in good faith. ----- I am racking up mileage on the Malibu daily, and I will be in the market again for another vehicle. The question is will I purchase a GM vehicle, or will I be hesitant because of the Equinox issue, and run to the foreign name plate? ----- All the best to you! ------- Dwayne
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    I'm more inclined to go with Radride's comments.

    Good wishes to you too!
  • bigkritterbigkritter Member Posts: 31
    Hey Jade
    any chance you are in CA? If we get more people involved maybe it will go somewhere
  • nickcapnickcap Member Posts: 4
    I have a 2011 2LT w/ 16,000 miles. This is the second time that I almost got in an accident with the car stalling. So when I got home I took out my video camera and started the car and recorded it stalling time after time. Now that it is recorded, and when I take in in to the Chevy dealer on Monday, they cannot tell me that they can’t reproduce it when it is on film! I knew to do this when I had a 2001 Honda Passport that was a lemon! I will also ask for the Manger to also show him the video. In addition, I will let them know that I have been down this road before!
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    Hi Nickcap:

    I have been following this issue with the Equinox for some time, because I almost purchase an Equinox in 2010. ---- (I purchased a 2.4 2010 LTZ Malibu instead of the Equinox.) ---- Your 2.4 engine is a "direct injection engine," and the 2.4 Malibu engine is NOT a direct injection engine, and here in lies the problem. If you do a search on the 2011 and the 2010 postings you will see a description about the problems associated with this engine. ---- To say the least, GM has not addressed this issue in a pro-active manner, and this is very sad because they are destroying their customer base. ----- While I like my 2010 2.4 Chevrolet LTZ Malibu, I will think long and hard before I will purchase another GM vehicle. I would expect this type of behavior from Kia or Hyundai! ----- My Malibu is a very well constructed vehicle, and it drives and rides as good as a Honda Accord. {I know this from experience because I owned a 1997, 2000 and a 2003 Honda Accord so I have something to compare the Malibu to that is grounded in reality.} ----- What GM is doing to the Equinox Owners is not professional. I am so happy that I did not purchase this poorly designed vehicle. I feel the GM is no longer willing to stand behind their products. ------ This is really sad, but what goes around in life does come around in life! ---- All the best. ------ Dwayne
  • nickcapnickcap Member Posts: 4
    Well, brought the car into the dealership. They will look at it tomorrow. Gave me a loaner on their dime. 2014 Chevy Tahoe. There is a recall for a sensor for the oil life. Check it out people!
  • caddo188caddo188 Member Posts: 2
    edited October 2013
    It's not really a recall. They are going to reprogram you computer to allow less miles between oil changes because the 4 cylinder engines are useing oil at an astounding rate. Mine burns a quart every 2500 miles. Check it regularly and often.
  • ecotechecotech Member Posts: 1
    Own an Equinox with a 2.4. Here's the scoop on the recall letter. GM found that some cam chains were wearing "wrong". They attributed it to the finish on the links of the chain. So they are extending the warranty on some engines. IOW, they believe they know what group of engines were built with chains that may have issues. They aren't all going to fail, very few in any will have chain stretch issues. And if anything else, using high quality engine oil changed at shorter intervals should make these engines last as long as anything else on the road. So if you change oil every 5,000 miles versus 7,500 miles and use the good stuff, there's nothing to worry about. Yes these engines are a bit noisier that some other engines. The fuel injection pump is cam driven, runs at very high pressures and when it is cold or under a load, the pressure goes up. Hence, more noise. My Equinox took a while to settle down and break in. It wasn't until 15,000 mile or so before it started te get better MPG. And it went up a significant amount, like I'm getting around 29 mpg at 75 mph flat land driving. It was in the lower 20s for a long time.

    Cam oil solenoids, they can be a problem. Don't know if it's all about the engine alone. Tripped codes with a 2.4 in a Malibu but it seemed mostly when very cold and only with certain brands of engine oil and usually early after oil changes. There has been a design change with the solenoids. Guessing they opened up the tolerances. What usually happened with mine was the code got set at start. That's when oil pressure was building and the solenoids weren't responding fast enough. The codes would reset themselves after a few drives. I still changed the solenoid and no codes have been set since.

    I've had good luck with the Ecotecs I've dealt with. They aren't a race car engine by any means but they do have good reputation for durability and ease of repair. About the only weak parts are in certain cars, there are some that develop exhaust leaks at flex joints. Like somebody else has said, any car will do you better if you allow it to warm up before to push it and when you change fluids and filters, there is no good reason to skimp. Makes no sense to spend so much money then try to save $2 on oil. IOW, get a name brand, not a brand X.
  • ronwelronwel Member Posts: 57
    Here is the letter that I got...

    -------------------------------------
    As the owner of a 2010 model year Chevrolet Equinox, your satisfaction with our product is very important to us.

    This letter is intended to make you aware that on some 2010 model year Chevrolet Equinox vehicles, equipped with a 2.4L engine, the chrome layer on the balance chain pins may wear, allowing the chain to stretch. This would cause an engine noise, and if left untreated, could cause the chain to break and leading to engine damage.

    In addition, the fuel pump plunger shaft seal may wear and allow fuel to leak into the crankcase, which would illuminate the Malfunction Indicator Light. This can cause engine run-on and/or the engine to run rough.

    Do not take your vehicle to your General Motors dealer as a result of this letter unless you believe that your vehicle has the condition as described above.

    General Motors is providing owners with additional protection for the condition described above. If this condition occurs on your 2010 model year Chevrolet Equinox, equipped with a 2.4L engine, within 10 years of the date your vehicle was originally placed in service or 193,000 kilometres, whichever occurs first, the condition will be repaired for you at no charge. Diagnosis or repair for conditions other than the condition described above is not covered under this special coverage program.

    Repairs and adjustments qualifying under this special coverage must be performed by a General Motors dealer. You may want to call the service department at your dealer to find out how long they will need to have your vehicle so that you may schedule the appointment at a time that is convenient for you. This will also allow your dealer to order parts if they are not already in stock. Keep this letter with your other important glovebox literature for future reference.

    If you have already paid to have this special coverage condition corrected and you have not received reimbursement under a Vehicle Service Contract, you should contact your dealer as you may be eligible to receive reimbursement. Please provide your dealer with the original or clear copy of all receipts, invoices and/or repair orders verifying the repair, the amount charged, proof of payment, the date of payment of those charges, and proof of ownership of the vehicle at the time of the repair. Your request for reimbursement, including the information and documents mentioned above, must be received by your dealer before July 31, 2014.

    We are sorry for any inconvenience you may experience; however we have taken this action in the interest of your continued satisfaction with our products.
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    I really enjoyed reading this letter. It belongs in a "children's fairy tale book," because it is putting a "spin" on a very serious situation that Equinox customers are dealing with on a daily basis. ----- I especially like the part that states: ---- "Do not take your vehicle to your GM dealer as a result of this letter unless you believe that your vehicle has the condition described above!" ---- NOW THE CUSTOMER HAS BECOME PART OF THE DIAGNOSTIC PROCESS! ---- GM is now seeking the "opinion of the customer" as part of the repair process. ---- What is wrong with this picture? ---- There might be a problem with the plating, but the REAL cause is the leaking fuel pump that dumps "raw fuel" into the crankcase oil thus thinning the oil, and causing excessive engine ware to the timing chain assembly, the piston rings, cylinder walls and main bearings. ---- Here is the all important question; ---- Does GM know by VIN number which vehicle has the defective fuel pump? ---- If they have access to this information, GM should call these units back, and change the fuel pump BEFORE the engine is destroyed! ---- Why must the customer experience an "engine malfunction" before pro-active action is taken? ----- I guess the Equinox Customer did not pay enough money for the "product" to get pro-active / professional warranty service from GM and the dealers! ------ I own a 2010 2.4 LTZ Malibu, and I love my vehicle, but I am going to think VERY carefully before I purchase another GM vehicle. (I almost purchased a 2010 2.4 Equinox! That is why I am interested in this posting!) ----- All the best. ---- Dwayne
  • nickcapnickcap Member Posts: 4
    They changed the intake camshaft actuator. Tech reprogramed ECM as per recall 12312. 27 multi point inspection and free oil change. Plus the loaner 2014 Chevy Tahoe all free! Can’t say anything bad about the dealership I went to.
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    That is the way a customer should be treated, but unfortunately, this is not the case with many people on this board! ------ QUESTION: ---- Did the dealer change the oil because there was raw gasoline in the engine oil? ---- If the answer to this question is "YES," did they also change the fuel pump? ---- Giving you a "loaner car" is great while they are servicing your vehicle under warranty, but are they servicing your vehicle in a professional manner, or are they just putting a bandage on the engine wound? ----- Owners have had their "timing chain assembly" replaced along with the high pressure fuel pump, and then had an engine that pumped oil because the piston rings, the cylinder walls and the main bearing were damaged with raw gasoline in the oil! ---- The proper fix would have been a new engine! ---- As a GM vehicle owner I am concerned about this issue because this could have easily been a Chevrolet 2.4 Malibu issue! ----- All the best! ---- Dwayne.
  • iusbsoccer3iusbsoccer3 Member Posts: 1
    Received the same letter after trying for months to figure out why my 2010 Equinox would rough idle at red lights and smelled like gasoline constantly. My entire high pressure fuel pump was replaced like many others that own these vehicles. Since then have been to the Chevy dealership twice more in the same month. They keep band aiding problems. Only had the vehicle for couple months and have had nothing but issues. Most unreliable vehicle I have ever bought! Registered a case for lemon laws, if that doesn't work sending it through the auction and dumping it.
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    edited October 2013
    Have you contacted GM directly and opened up a "case number" with this vehicle? It is VERY important to document everything! ------- This issue is equivalent to the "sludge issue" that Toyota had in the past with their engines related to extended oil and filter changes. Toyota recommended "high mileage oil and filter changes," and when their engines suffered from "sludge problems" they blamed the owners of the vehicle for the engine damage. -- This is why I change my oil and filter in both my 2007 Camry and 2010 Malibu every 2,500 miles instead of the recommended 5,000 miles and YES, I use an oil additive BG / MOA. (So far both engines are VERY clean!) ------ Chrysler is no different. They also had a "sludge issue" with the 2.7 engine. ------ Ford also had an issue with spark plugs blowing out of their holes in the head of the engine. ----- What is common to all of these issues is that "somehow" it is always the "owner of the vehicle" who suffers from the problem either through "inconvenience or financially!" ---- In the case of Ford, the spark plug issue was caused by a problem with the spark threads cut into the head of the engine. The spark plug would work lose and rock in the threaded hole and destroy the internal threads, and then eventually blow out of the cylinder head. Since Ford does not warranty spark plugs it was decided that the owner of the vehicle was responsible for the repair. The "correct fix for this issue" was to install a steel sleeve in the spark plug hole of the head, and then install the spark plug into the steel sleeve. This required the removal of the head and machine shop work! ----- Don't you just LOVE big car manufacturers! ----- You can be sure that the "Suits of GM" are monitoring this board to get a feel of customer opinion! ------ All the best! -------- Dwayne
  • lsmithhartlsmithhart Member Posts: 21
    edited October 2013
    I am still driving my 2011 "nox", because it is worth very little in trade and nobody wants to buy it. I have no confidence in this vehicle and can't wait to go back to Mazda or Honda. I made a mistake, I wanted to believe "American made" was back. GM has no respect for the customers, they are protecting the investors. In the long run, the buyers will wise up and reject their junk. My Nox had engine work around 5000 and transmission work around 15000 miles. We have roadside assistance to get us off the road, and GM has repaired it each time, but really, engine work at 5000 miles? It has stalled out in bad neighborhoods and needed to be towed! My wife can only drive it to work and the store, close to home.

    GM SHOULD be ashamed. They SHOULD be fixing these vehicles. They SHOULD be protecting their name, their brand, their reputation. Instead they say "we could not duplicate the event". That's fine, so trade it in at a reasonable price. Give me a GM vehicle that has a better track record! You KNEW this engine had problems! You sold it with a maintenance (oil change) expectation that was not sustainable. My cost will now more than double for oil changes over the life of this vehicle! GM is no better than the CHINESE DRYWALL scammers! The Equinox and all vehicles with similar issues are Chinese drywall! You buy something that seems great and a few months later... you have a stinking mess!
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    edited October 2013
    The moral of the story with EVERYTHING that you purchase today is "buyer beware! ------- This includes all big ticket items! ------ Before purchasing anything go on line and read the reviews both about the product, and about the dealer offering the product for sale. ------ When I purchase a vehicle I pick the product and the dealer based on the reviews that I read on line, and on Edmunds. ------ I would be willing to pay a little more for the vehicle and purchase it from a dealer that gets POSITIVE reviews from the customers. ----- I am willing to give ALL OF MY SERVICE BUSINESS to the dealer, but in return, i expect the dealer to be "on my side" when dealing with a warranty issue! ----- YES, loyalty works both ways. Both the Chevrolet and the Toyota dealer that I have in New Jersey are simply outstanding in terms of service and customer relations. I have NEVER been disappointed with a service experience, but on the other side, I give them all my service business. (Oil Changes, Brakes, Tires, Filters --- etc.) -------- I would love to own a Dodge Charger! I cannot purchase a Dodge Charger because the Dodge dealers in my area a less than professional both in terms of sales and service. Why would I subject myself to a "negative ownership experience" just to own a vehicle that I like? ----- At the price of new vehicles, "vehicle ownership" should be an enjoyable experience. Is that TOO MUCH to ask? So Chrysler does not get my business. ------- At the price of a Dodge Charger I could also look a Toyota Avalon which also happens to be a "sharp looking vehicle!" -------- In today's economy, PEOPLE WANT TO BE RESPECTED, and they WANT VALUE FOR THEIR HARD EARNED MONEY, and if something happens to the product in terms of the warranty THEY WANT TIMELY / PROFESSIONAL / PRO-ACTIVE SERVICE, and in exchange for that treatment, people will be loyal to the manufacturer and the dealer. ----- What is the problem with that deal? ---- It is a "win / win" situation for all parties. ---- We all need to drive vehicles for business and pleasure. ------ I need vehicles that are 100% for my business. If something happens, I need timely / professional service on the road because my vehicles are my office. A Chevrolet Equinox could not fulfill my professional needs! ----- All the best to all the Equinox owners! ----- Since I am in the boat business, I have a suggested use for all the four cylinder Equinox vehicles that are not operating properly. They would make excellent mooring anchors in an area with a muddy bottom. Once the vehicle sinks into the black mud the boat will never drag the mooring! You see if you think hard enough in a creative manner you can find a use for everything! ----- Have a GREAT DAY everyone! ------- Dwayne
  • nickcapnickcap Member Posts: 4
    edited October 2013
    Great question about the oil. I had it changed two months ago with my own mechanic know him well a highly reputable business. I think he would have told me if there was something unusual (smell) with the oil. As for the dealership, I believe if there was something else wrong pertaining to this issue they would have fixed it. Reason why, because before I went to the dealership I contacted the corporate office in Detroit and opened a case. So when I got to the dealership they knew exactly who I was. Sometimes you need to go over their heads first to get the common courtesy that customers deserves. This is also why that they had treaded me with the upmost respect . In addition, the dealership had told me that they did in fact inspect the timing chain. I can only speculate they had to because they needed to get to the camshaft actuator.

    Parts.

    12609291 (Gasket Kit)
    24435052 (Gasket)
    12605566 (Filter)
    19293000 (Oil)
    12621505 (Actuator)
    11588844 (Bolt)
  • frustratedcnoxfrustratedcnox Member Posts: 2
    Bought my 2011 chevy equinox almost 2 yrs ago because I had wanted one since they first came out. Loved it at first but have had nothing but problems with it ever since. Has been into the dealership 3 times in the past 6mos for the same issue-check engine light comes on and code shows random misfiring with unknown cause, runs rough, stalls when first started at times and all I get is the run around about how I need to use top tier gasoline. It's not like I am filling it up at hick town gas stations. Worst part is that I love this vehicle as far as comfort and style. I just wish it was reliable. Not sure what my next action should but am afraid I am going to need to trade it in and lose money. Have owned multiple other vehicles that were only a couple years old with less than 30,000 miles and never had this kind of problems.
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    Read the entire postings on the 2010 & the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox, and you will get a true picture of the problem. ---- Suggestion; ----- Call GM, and open up a "case number" with them. List all the problems with the vehicle. It is VERY important that you go on record with this vehicle. ----- Have all of your oil and filter service done at the dealer and keep all of your service receipts. The problem IS NOT with the quality of the fuel, but rather with a design flaw in the four cylinder engine and the high pressure fuel pump. ------ You will read about this in the past postings. ----- Pull the dip stick on the engine oil, and smell the oil. If it smells like raw gasoline you have a leaking high pressure fuel pump dumping raw fuel into the engine oil. -------- This is destroying your engine! -------- All the best! ----- Dwayne.
  • frustratedcnoxfrustratedcnox Member Posts: 2
    Has anyone actually had any luck with GM? If these are known problems with this engine then why do they keep trying to blame it in the gas? I received that letter about the balance chain and plunger shaft seal but was told that those codes were not showing up but only the random misfires on all cylinders especially #3. Should I insist to GM that these parts get replaced anyways to see if that makes a difference?
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    Kindly be advised that you need to read the entire postings on both the 2010 and the 2011 boards to get a true understanding of the magnitude of the problem. ----------- Both GM and the Chevrolet dealers have an understanding of the total issue, and the role that the high pressure fuel pump plays in the engine problems. ----- With raw gasoline in the engine oil, the lubricating qualities of the oil have been compromised. This then destroys the timing chain assembly, damages the main bearings, the piston rings and the cylinder walls of the engine. ---- Even if the timing chain assembly is replaced along with a NEW & IMPROVED high pressure fuel pump, ---- the damage to the engine is still a major factor. ---- Most likely the engine will use oil and be very noisy! ---- You now have major piston blow-by and the PCV system is now working overtime to clear the crankcase of fumes. Oil is being pulled out of the crankcase because of the pressure of the blow-by! ----- YES, it is a mess!------- The fix is a new engine, but lots of luck with this issue! ---- Remember this when it comes time to purchase a new vehicle. ---- A Rav4 is a very nice SUV! ------ All the best to you! ----- Dwayne
  • smc8888smc8888 Member Posts: 25
    Hello Dwayne,

    I smelled raw gasoline on my 2010 Nox oil dipstick for a long time, I have sent oil samples for third-party analysis twice and all came back clean of gasoline. I recently had the piston-ring replaced as outlined in the GM service bulletin, and the oil still smells like gasoline! The service manager told me that it is normal for a direct-injection engine where it is almost unavoidable to have gasoline droplets hitting the oil film. I don't know if this is really true but has no way to find out. Have you heard the same comment?
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