2020 Chevrolet Equinox Problems Include Engine Stalls, Electrical Issues, and Wobbling at Various Speeds

May 6, 2022

With over 270,000 units sold across the states, 70 owner complaints on the NHTSA might sound negligible. However, the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox needs more time on the road to prove the alarming engine and transmission problems in previous model years will not recur.

2020 Chevrolet Equinox - Photo by Chevrolet

Key Points

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox has three recalls and 70 owner complaints registered with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website, with the most serious problems potentially leading to engine stall or fire.
A recent recall pertains to missing bolts on the start/stop accumulator endcap, which can lead to power loss.
The most frequently cited issue is about the engine shaking excessively and stalling while the vehicle is in motion.
Several 2020 Equinox owners have complained about the radio freezing and not shutting off after turning the vehicle off.
At least three owners mention being involved in car crashes where airbags did not deploy.

General Motors Has Recalled 2020 Chevrolet Equinox Three Times for Flawed Brakes and Fuel and Oil Leaks

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, GM has recalled the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox three times.

The first recall covered a fuel leak problem in just 301 Equinox vehicles from the 2019 and 2020 model years and equipped with all-wheel drive. GM acknowledged that the fuel tanks in these models were made with an improperly sealed seam that caused the leak.

An even smaller number of 2020 Equinoxes were recalled for an issue with the brake calipers. In 166 models, rear brake calipers manufactured with an incorrect lubricant could affect the braking ability and increase the risk of a crash.

GM also recalled 2018-2020 Chevy Equinox SUVs because of missing bolts on the start/stop accumulator endcap. The issue could lead to a transmission oil leak and loss of power. Additionally, transmission oil could light up in the presence of an ignition source.

2020 Chevrolet Equinox - Photo by Chevrolet

Engine Vibrations and Loss of Power Have Reportedly Put Drivers in Hazardous Situations

Nearly half of the 70 complaints registered with the NHTSA are about powertrain issues. Owners have complained about the engine shaking when starting the car or driving at various speeds.

Another major issue is the loss of power while the vehicle is in motion. “While driving, the vehicle failed to accelerate above 30 mp, with the rpms revving up without the vehicle responding,” says one owner. “In addition, the vehicle stalled without warning. It was restarted, but the gears failed to shift.”

There are also complaints related to unintended acceleration. One owner said his 2020 Equinox randomly accelerated: “I was on the brake, but the vehicle kept accelerating, causing it to run into the back of a car. My vehicle continued to accelerate, shoving the car forward, sandwiching it between my vehicle and a house.”

2020 Chevrolet Equinox - Photo by Chevrolet

Electrical Problems, Including Malfunctioning Radio and Lane Departure Assist, Have Been Reported By 2020 Equinox Owners

At least four 2020 Equinox owners have complained about the radio not working correctly. According to the reports, the radio freezes randomly and stays on after turning the vehicle off. In other instances, it shuts down and doesn’t turn back on.

Another problem is the power lane assist. Drivers have complained that the instrument panel shows a message warning the driver that they are going outside of the intended lane despite driving within the lane.

Additionally, the steering wheel would vibrate, indicating the vehicle is departing from the lane.

One owner mentioned that the dealer couldn’t provide a remedy for this issue, leaving them with no choice but to turn the lane departure assist off every time they start the vehicle.

2020 Chevrolet Equinox - Photo by Chevrolet

2020 Chevy Equinox is Still Relatively New, and its Few Reported Problems aren’t Widespread Enough to Worry

The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox is still a relatively new car on the roads and needs more time to make statements in reliability. Nonetheless, some of the problems mentioned among the 70 registered complaints on the NHTSA website hint at bigger issues, such as engine stalls.

According to the Kelley Blue Book, a used 2020 Chevrolet Equinox goes for around $23,980 to $39,369. Considering the reasonable price, low-rate of recalls, and Chevy’s reputation for reliability, the 2020 Equinox seems like a solid sport utility vehicle worth the asking price.

Photos: Chevrolet

Frequently Asked Questions

By Stephanie Stephan | May 6, 2022

Does the Chevrolet Equinox Have a Lot of Problems?

The Chevy Equinox suffers from excessive oil consumption, including the smell of gas in the cabin and fuel pump failure. Recalls were issued for airbags, windshield mounts, the HVAC, and ignition key. Years most affected by oil consumption include the 2010, 2012 and 2013.

Does the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox Have a Lot of Problems?

Only 70 NHTSA complaints exist for the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox. However, 486 TSBs for crankshaft oil leaks, the steering, and transmission were issued. More than one owner complains of rollaway while in park.

Owner Reviews

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Torie on April 1, 2024

Biggest piece of c**p

I bought my car used and it had everything working fine. Within a year, my turbo cap kept popping off and I would lose all acceleration. My husband finally figured out a fix but I had to pull over and push it back on everyday until he figured it out. Couldn’t take it to the dealership because they don’t help you with rental or loaner anymore and expect you to leave your car for 7-10 business days waiting on a diagnosis. This is ridiculous and Chevy doesn’t care about their customers. I have to have a vehicle, I commute everyday and my husband has an old car that we won’t put my daughter in. Now we have a different problem that has left me stranded on the highway multiple times. My car will shut off out of nowhere if you brake too hard or even just turn from a stopped spot. It loses all power and says the steering assist doesn’t work. This has happened 6 times in the last year now and we’ve had it diagnosed by a local mechanic and no codes come up as to what the issue is. We know it has something to do with the ABS and power steering since those are the lights that come up. It’ll attempt to use electric power and takes at least 20 minutes to reset and start working again. Again, even if I try the dealership, I won’t have a vehicle and no one there cares at all. Will never by a GM again because they don’t care about their clients.

Dave Piechotte on July 8, 2023

Three Equinox SUVs in a row and no major issues - 2014, 2019,2020

Our 2014 purchased new had no issues and traded it in for a 2019 with the 2.0-liter 4 cylinder which is an AWD LT trim. The 9 speed trans is smooth and just happen to be the exact engine/trans of our 2017 Malibu. No problems with the Malibu at all. We traded in the 2017 Malibu on a used 2020 Equinox staying with the last year with the 2.0-liter engine. That was a year ago and the 2020 Equinox has been performing well. The 2.0-liter engine mated with the 9 speed transmission seems to be a very good pair. The common denominator is to stay with the larger engine however as of model year 2021 the Equinox only has the 1.5-liter engine which seems to be too small for the midsized Equinox. There is a plethora of information on which years for the Equinox to avoid. The third generation (2018 and up) are rated very good. The Equinox is a people mover and priced below many of the imports and my vote after 3 Equinox and 1 Malibu is that these vehicles are above average in reliability. (I do not work for GM or any related companies).

Brandy on September 25, 2023

Nothing but problems

II have owned my equinoxFor two years. It is a 2020 all wheel drive turbo 1.5 L. I’ve changed the struts, CV shaft, stabilizer bars everything the dealership told me that was wrong with it and it still makes a clicking noise when I turn. Brought it to a dealership they called it a characteristic. Characteristics do not develop it is something thatyou have when you get something. Chevy has not gone good with their word and Miss directed me over a warranty stating my warranty was up at 36,000 miles they lied all I ask is Chevy to fix my car so it is reliable and figure out my problem. They. They offer to pay half when I feel they should be reliable for every bit of it since I have proof in text. I will never by another Chevy unless they can show me other wise that they are not crooks. I have had my turbo come unhooked, I have had my car stall as I was driving. But now my warranty is really up no one can help me. I am in contact with AG because some needs to help me.

Mike M. on August 3, 2023

I hope Chevy goes bankrupt.

I have owned several Chevy trucks, got away from the brand a few years ago. After purchasing a 2020 Equinox premium all I can tell you is, I regret buying this garbage on wheels like I have never regretted any purchase in my entire life. Chevy should be ashamed they put their name on it. It’s rides like a horse buggy, my ride on lawnmower sounds better and actually has greater acceleration. The sight lines are fine if your under 5 foot tall, but not a vehicle for avg to tall humans. I hate driving this car, and I now hate Chevy. Chinese parts assembled in Mexico but it’s American made! Ppl telling you this car is great is fake news.

SamC on April 17, 2023

Gas in the oil

I bought my 2020 2.0L Turbo new and it has been flawless. How ever I noticed my oil level rising slightly and getting detonations in my exhaust. I took it in and they said it was just a bad coil and replaced it. I noticed the oil level still rising so I sent in an oil sample to the lab for testing. They said it has way too much gas in the oil thus diluting the oil causing excessive wear. The oil has 3x higher than average iron in the oil so this means the engine is eating itself with only 12K miles on it. I have it booked into Chevy this week and will see what they do about it.

Brad Gerst on July 8, 2021

DONT BUY THE EQUINOX!

Since the day we purchased this vehicle it has been nothing but a problem. Within one year of purchase we have replaced the transmission twice, the muffler sounds like it is not even there, constant lights on the dash, and now the front end shakes when we brake. That is the latest problem. It feels like the front end is going to fall off. The worst part of it all is that Chevy will do nothing about it. This is a horribly built car and the customer service we have received has been even worse. I am very disappointing in GM with the whole experience.

James Largay on April 18, 2023

Very Solid, Good Car

Bought a 2020 leftover in 4/21, assembled inMexico. Very good car. I personally think the complaints about the base engine and interior quality are off base. The 1.5 liter turbo is quite adequate but will not win any races. Interior is plain which hides its good quality. Seats are firm and supportive. No hump behind rear seat. Only issue is distortion in bottom 2” of windshield. Dealer replaced but condition persists, a likely reminder that, for all its good points it is a Chevy. Average MPG in 17000 miles is 31.1!

Helen J on April 23, 2022

Why I do not want it. It has been good at taking me where I want to go.

No major problems so far but it seems to burn excess oil I do not like that. All ways starts motor runs smooth but it rides like a truck very bumpy. Dashboard, front seats looks nice back of vehicle looks to plain I would not buy it again and plan to trade it in as soon as possible. It is white so no extra charm there, tires loses air frequently, I had to buy two new tires in one month at one hundred and fifty dollars each which is not helping to save money.

Diane O on March 31, 2022

BEWARE!! 2020Equinox leaking transmission

My 2020 Equinox LT that cost $32,000 with 500 miles is leaking transmission fluid. First I was told it was a seal. Then they found something "POROUS" and are replacing the transmission. I have lost all confidence in this car. The lemon law is in the dealers favor. I would never have purchased this car if I knew it was assembled in Mexico. I thought I was supporting American auto workers. I wish Chevy would stand by its products. I would like a new car.

Dan W on June 13, 2023

Good engine and transmission

Between 2018 and 2021, I purchased two Chevrolet Equinox 2.0 L vehicles, and I am currently still driving one of them. With the 2018 model, I encountered an issue where the radio would not start, but the dealership was able to fix it. Additionally, the driver's side window made a noise when partially opened, which unfortunately, the dealership was unable to resolve on both models. Aside from these minor setbacks, the car has been excellent overall.

Roland Casto on November 17, 2021

To see clearly out the front window without distortion

2020 front windshield has major distortion in the lower bottom making the lane lines appear to be coming under the front tires as you pass them. Further when driving ar dusk the vehicles you are passing on the passenger side looks like they are moving towards a collision with my side of the car Dealer replaced under warranty but the new windshield has the exact problem. Service advisor test drove and agreed. Solution pending.

Jessica Swift on January 18, 2024

Super Reliable!

I think with the equinox's it's a hit or miss, I have put over 160,000 miles on mine and the only thing that's needed replaced was the turbo. I have never gotten stuck in the Montana Mountain snow ever! I've heard really horrible things about this car crapping out on sooo many people, mine has been a trooper! 2020 Chevy Equinox LT, basic model, nothing fancy or added on...173,000 miles and still going strong!

Roberto L on November 12, 2021

More space in the front less in the back.

My vehicle drives much better than previous iterations but, has much a smaller trunk space. The space for the back seats is much smaller and the audio system leaves a lot to be desired. The overall shape is aesthetically more appealing. The quality of the front seats feels more comfortable. Transmission is much improved. I do not care for the single push ignition button I prefer my cars to have actual keys.

Lea S on June 9, 2023

Worst SUV I've ever had!

My equinox premier is only 3 years old, and the sunroof leaks water into the wheel well and floods the back seat, the moonroof will not open or close, it is stuck, the car randomly accelerates while driving normally which can be dangerous, and now the engine light is on and nobody can figure out why or delete it! I can't even trade it in for a decent amount for a different car!

Andrew W on April 14, 2022

Need major improvements in car.

This vehicle has a lot of issues with it. Mine was a lemon. In less than a year it had 2 major engine problems and needed ultimately a new engine as the outcome. The car in of itself is a great concept though and is up to date with technology and safety features. The design is awesome too! Just need to get rid of the huge problems and they will have a great car in the equinox!

Lee on March 29, 2023

Transmission issue

2020 Equinox with 65,000 miles. Check engine light came and took vehicle to dealer for diagnostics. Found lot of metal in the transmission. Fluid was good. Out of warranty by 5,000 miles. Stuck paying for a brand new transmission. In my 50 odd years of driving I have never had to replace a transmission in any vehicle I've owned. Crazy that Chevy is only good for 65,000 miles.

Amber B on August 10, 2021

Going from a 17 to a 20 equinox.

I wish the seats were more comfortable and not so stiff, I do think the engine is a better running engine than the 17 I had before. The overall look of the car has also improved in the last few years with the new design. I love the bigger screen and better features with the radio such as being able to Bluetooth into the car which I was not able to do with the previous model.

Scott Wright on December 3, 2022

2020 Equinox 2.0 LT2 AWD

I had my 2020 equinox for 2 years without any significant problems or issues only the park break had to be reprogrammed in early 2020 (purchased in late 2019) I put 38k miles on it with regular oil changes.I my only big complaint was I replaced the tires at 20k miles. I traded it the hight of the vehicle pandemic (Aka chipshortage) got 30k for it. I would buy another one.

D O on January 18, 2022

BEWARE Transmission problems 500 miles on car!!!

My $32,000 2020 Equinox with 500 miles is leaking transmission fluid. First they said it was the seal. Then I was told they found the pan "POROUS" and are replacing the transmission. Very upsetting to spend $32,000 on car to have all these problems. I wish GM would stand by their products. Not sure if only the cars assembled in Mexico are having these problems.

Lindsay M on November 3, 2021

Beware of buying a stock car... Always see car in person first.

Small grainy screen, no heated seats, cannot even pop trunk from keys, no trunk button, no steering wheel heating. I basically was given a stock car. My 2018 was much better. A 2020 car should have all of these things without question. I had them on my 2018 and I am paying more. Deterred me from buying sheet again. (genthe Chevrolet).

Meagan W on June 26, 2021

Great vehicle to use in unpredictable weather.

I enjoy the speed and reliability of this car. The trunk is spacious, but the seating room is a little tight for my family of 5. The lane assist makes me feel like I am swerving all over the road. I usually turn it off. I really like the swiftness of this car and the ability to turn the AWD on and off quickly is a nice feature.

Stephanie BROWNLEE on August 3, 2022

Trash.2020 equinox left me and kid stranded

Have hated this car the entire time. Dealership wouldn’t take it back. Randomly made a ticking noise, then brakes wouldn’t work. Coasted into a parking lot, wouldn’t drive, wouldn’t reverse, now won’t crank. Mechanic towed it, motor is gone. Worse vehicle I’ve ever owned and I owe $18,000 on it.

James O'Hara on July 13, 2021

BEWARE!!! Problem with Transmission

My 2020 Equinox LT with 500 miles is leaking transmission fluid. First I was told it was a seal. Now they are replacing the transmission. The car has 500 miles!!! I have lost my confidence in this car. Worried I will have more problems. Did not realize when I purchased this car ir is assembled in Mexico.

Belinda L on November 18, 2021

I have none this vehicle is very disappointing.

It has already had two recalls and the computer system has gone out it is currently at the dealership for repair and my partner works out of town so I have been left with no vehicle and the fact that I have a 2020 SUV is really frustrating I really thinking about no buy anymore Chevrolet cars or SUVs.

Robert M on December 30, 2021

2020 equinox, a mediocre car.

I do not have any reliability issues but there was some quality issues. Some of the interior pieces are flimsy and broke off when used. The buttons on the steering wheel and radio are wearing off. This is a base model vehicle and is not equipped with any tech features, which is a bummer.

Ronald Allen on July 10, 2023

Radio shuts off all the time

My radio shuts down while I’m driving and sometimes it takes 15 minutes to come back on. I’ve been to the dealership several times and they could not find the problem and now the cat is out of warranty and I’m told there is nothing that I can do to resolve the problem please help

Rob Beckett on June 10, 2021

Don't buy very noisy handles poorly

Very disappointed. Have to pay to use an app on your phone to unlock your own car. Transmission slips and bangs. Very noisy won't stay in a straight line it wonders like a drunk driver. Definitely trading out of this and buying a dodge jeep product not worth the 40k i paid for it.

Wendi S on May 11, 2022

2020 equinox - the egg 2.0.

I hate the auto engine stop. I think this is the worst feature to add to a vehicle for my type of driving needs. Radio is fine. I do like the feel of the seats. Heated seats are nice. I do not care for the passenger lumbar/seat recline levers being positioned the way they are.

Teresa B on June 12, 2021

Good gas mileage and very roomy.

Very comfortable, handles well, no horsepower, noisy inside while driving, good on gas mileage. Plenty of legroom front and back, good for long distance drives, would recommend to small family. Probably would not repurchase, teenage daughter enjoys driving this car.

Noah S on March 19, 2022

2020 Chevrolet equinox: rip off of the century.

The interior materials are cheap and low quality. The fuel pump went out at 1,900 miles. Now, the cv joint broke at 2,700 miles. Do not buy the Chevrolet equinox. It is a piece of junk that costs you way too much money for very few features. Save yourself the grief.

Julio Cesar Castillo on March 25, 2024

Se detecto problemas con el arbol de leva

Un chevrolet equinox 2020 comprado hace solo un año por el Dealer de Tricolor en Dallas y hoy se detuvo repentinamente sin haber tenido problemas anteriores. La defectacion mostró problemas en el arbol de leva y el rodamiento de velocidad alta del motor.

Holden on August 18, 2023

Equinox reduce power

My 2020 chevy equinox went into reduce engine power mode on the hwy I had cars flying up on me.As I go 30 miles an hour. Then every light has came on the dash. And runs really rough. I'm disappointed in the bowtie. I though chevy was better than this.

Paul Surguy on December 20, 2023

Replace engine

31k miles only! From dealership:” Removed upper oil pan and found cylinder #2 connecting rod burt up. Removed connecting rod cap and found bearing had spun and damaged connecting rod and crank shaft.”

Ron Weiss on July 17, 2023

Fire danger

My son and daughter in law burned to death in an 2020 Equinox in an accident. I hate life right now and after over 60 years as a GM owner I will never buy another.This car needs to be investigated!

Pat Bowers on September 4, 2021

Several expensive repairs

After just under 100,000K the engine needed $1100 worth of work. Two weeks after the work was done l was told the engine had to be replaced. I will never by another Chevy product again.

Thomas Penney on June 17, 2021

To have a good suv not junk

What did not go wrong first thing the motor burned oil at 2 letters in 25 hundred km and you cant keep it lined up and can't keep a front end in it like I said junk

David Zito on November 3, 2021

591 miles and problems.

Do not buy I have it for a month and 591 miles on it and have transmission and engine issues had to have it towed to the dealership not happy at all right now ?

Ida Mousaw on February 13, 2023

Only had a couple of days

DO NOT BUY THIS 2020 Chevy Equinox.It is a LEMON A very expensive LEMON. Shakes and acts if it’s stalling out. Something wrong with the acceleration.

Hamed Paydarfar

From collecting miniature replicas to drawing his favorite cars, Hamed's obsession with anything with four wheels kicked off early in his life. Later on, he fused his passion for the automotive industry with his love for languages and literature and began writing blog posts, articles, and features about cars in 2019. When he's not writing, Hamed spends his time with his guitars and paintbrushes.