2012 Chevrolet Equinox

Alright, here is a breakdown of common problems and complaints for the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox, categorized by component and engine/transmission configuration. The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV known for its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride. However, it does have some known issues. Engine options include a 2.4L inline-4 and a 3.0L V6, both paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 2.4L engine produces around 182 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque. People generally appreciate the Equinox for its spacious interior and good gas mileage, but common complaints often revolve around engine issues, particularly oil consumption, and some electrical problems.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The 2.4L engine is known for consuming excessive amounts of oil, sometimes more than 1 quart every 1,000 miles. This can lead to low oil levels, engine damage, and eventually engine failure if not monitored and addressed. Symptoms include the need to frequently add oil, blue smoke from the exhaust, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: GM released a technical service bulletin and extended warranty coverage for piston ring failure on certain 2.4L engines. The repair typically involves replacing the piston rings, or, in severe cases, replacing the entire engine. Some owners have also had success with installing an oil catch can.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ (depending on severity and repair choice - piston rings vs. engine replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The High Pressure Fuel Pump can fail causing the engine to not start and or stall while driving.
  • Solution: Replacing the fuel pump will resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1200+ (part and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or delayed engagement. These issues can stem from valve body problems, worn clutch packs, or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush may help in some cases. However, often the valve body needs to be replaced or rebuilt, or the entire transmission requires replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners sometimes report the struts and shocks wearing out prematurely, leading to a bouncy ride and reduced handling performance. This can be exacerbated by rough road conditions.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn struts and/or shocks with new ones.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Malfunctioning Power Windows/Locks
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows and door locks. This is often due to a faulty window motor, door lock actuator, or wiring harness issue.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty window motor, door lock actuator, or repairing the wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window/lock.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Stalling Issues due to Bad Ground Wires
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported that the vehicle may start to stall while driving and/or not start. The cause can be traced back to corrosion that develops on the ground wires.
  • Solution: Remove the corrosion from the ground wires and replace any damaged wires.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Water Leaks (Sunroof/Windshield)
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks can occur around the sunroof or windshield seals, leading to water damage inside the cabin.
  • Solution: Resealing the sunroof or windshield, or replacing damaged seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Airbag Light On
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported that the airbag light may come on due to a faulty sensor in the seat.
  • Solution: Replace the airbag sensor and or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox has several common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. The most significant issue is the excessive oil consumption in the 2.4L engine, which can lead to costly repairs. Electrical issues, such as malfunctioning power windows/locks, and transmission problems also contribute to owner complaints. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, like engine or transmission replacements, can be quite costly. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially catastrophic engine failures.