2020 Chevrolet Equinox
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Service brakes is the leading concern among 308 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 13th highest complaint count among 21 Equinox model years with reports.
Of the 2020 reports, 20 involved a crash and 7 involved a fire. 12 people were injured and 1 person died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Child seat, vehicle latch anchorMay 11, 2023
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles. The four rear-seat lower child seat LATCH anchorage bars may have excessive powder coating, which could prevent a child seat from being installed with the anchorage bars. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems."
The inability to install a child seat with the LATCH anchorage bars could result in an unsecured child seat, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
Owners are advised to install child seats using the vehicle's rear seat belts until the remedy is complete. Dealers will inspect the latch anchorage bars, and remove and replace the finish, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 2, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232403240.
Campaign 23V339000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmissionOct 29, 2020
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.
Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.
GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the start-stop transmission accumulator and replace it if any bolts are missing, free of charge. The recall began December 15, 2020. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N202313440.
Campaign 20V668000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, foundation components, disc, caliperOct 3, 2019
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Equinox vehicles. The rear brake calipers may have been produced with an incorrect lubricant, potentially causing the rubber seals to swell and the brakes to drag.
Brake drag may result in overheating of the brake pads, affecting the braking ability and increasing the risk of a crash.
GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear brake calipers, including the brake hose gasket, brake fluid and wheel to hub lubricant, free of charge. The recall began October 29, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438. GM's number for this recall is N192270920.
Campaign 19V704000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, storage, tank assemblySep 19, 2019
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Chevrolet Equinox all-wheel drive vehicles. The fuel tanks may have been manufactured with an improperly sealed seam, possibly allowing fuel to leak along the seam near the fuel inlet.
A fuel leak in the presence of the ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. The recall began October 24, 2019. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-586-596-1733. GM's number for this recall is N192271870.
Campaign 19V667000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: fuel/propulsion system
50 reports, newest first. Show all
Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 1, 2026
My car is a 2020 Chevy Equinox with only 31852 miles. While driving today, all of a sudden the car started shuddering badly and stalled in the middle of the highway. Talk about a very scary situation. I pushed the car to the side of the road, and had it towed to a local shop. They found that the Fuel Pump Control Module had failed (P129F code). Upon doing some research, I found out that the 2021 Equinox had recalls issued for this same exact issue. I also found that the 2020 and 2021 Equinox both used the same part number Fuel Pump Control Module (13565638). Because of this, the recall should be extended to the 2020 Chevy Equinox so that owners pay get the major possible safety issue fixed. Luckily, I did not get into an accident when this occured and honestly Chevrolet should be reimbursing me for the repair as this should have included in the safety recall for 2021 Equinox using the same part. I appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to hopefully seeing the right thing done here. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Fuel/propulsion system, Jun 24, 2026
Fuel Stall with no acceleration while driving on the highway. Barely made it to the side of the road. Vehicle is at a mechanic shop. Both the Direct injection high pressure fuel pump and the electric fuel pump as well as the fuel pump module has to be replaced.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Apr 27, 2026, fire
I am reporting a vehicle fire involving a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox [XXX] ). The fire originated in the engine compartment. The official fire report lists the causes as "undetermined", with the area of origin identified under the hood. There were no prior warning lights, mechanical issues, or indications that a fire risk was present. The vehicle was being used under normal conditions and was properly maintained to my knowledge. The vehicle was declared a total loss by my insurance company. Due to the undetermined cause and engine compartment origin, I am concerned there may have been a potential mechanical or electrical defect that was not identified. I am submitting this report in case similar incidents have occurred and to support an potential investigation int vehicle safety. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Fuel/propulsion system, Apr 1, 2026
One morning, in an attempt to start my car, it would not start. Instead, it lit up the check engine light. The engine was turning over and attempting to start, but would not start. I know someone with a code reader device that I asked to come hook up to my car and read what code was causing my check engine light to pop up. The reader displayed the code U18A2 which indicates a "Lost Communication with Fuel Pump Control Module (FPCM)". This commonly causes a no-start or stalling condition due to a broken CAN bus wire, corroded harness, or faulty FPCM ground. Key fixes involve repairing wiring along the frame rail. Many versions of the 2020 equinox have already been recalled for a fuel pump control module problem, and I was trying to inquire whether or not my vehicle qualifies as part of the recall for the fuel pump module.
Fuel/propulsion system, Feb 28, 2026
The gas tank was leaking without any warning or incident. The car was not involved in any incident that would have caused damage to the gas tank. The smell of raw fuel was very strong one morning. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer and inspected. Same model and year was under a recall for the gas tank but our particular vin was not included in the recall. There were no warning signs or symptoms.
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 31, 2025
Rear spear tire compartment full of water. Sunroof drains leaking into rear fuse box. Fuel pump and fuel pump module failing when driving. Turbo locking up from oil seal failure.
Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 19, 2025
Pulling into traffic car stalled without warning. Went from about 25 MPH to a complete stop in approximately in less than 100 feet. Car sputtered with transmission grabbing intermittently as it jerked to a stop. Restarted about several times with similar behavior. (Covered under 60,000-mile warranty (actual mileage ~55,000)). Replaced fuel pump driver control module to correct. No accident due to distance to on-coming traffic, but easily could have caused an accident during high traffic conditions.
Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 16, 2025
I’ve had the 02 sensor, maf sensor and a system update and my check engine won’t clear I’ve been dealing with this for over 5 months now. A Chevy dealership has had my vehicle and never informed me of warranty or recall issues.my check engine is throwing random code relating to the 02 sensor, lean code and multiple components having communication issues. Check engine will be lit and then clear on its own then return almost immediately
Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 13, 2025
I bought this car 1 1/2 yr ago.. Thursday I was driving down the road no warning lights no sounds, it stalled.. I got it home by a friend towing it, and when I went to try to start it, I then had the check engine light come on, and it threw 3 codes.. P0017, P0089, P228D. I was told that the ecm was replaced but after researching this there has been multiple sites stating others are having same issue.. and some stating that their problem was fixed but it broke down again every time. I just want my car fixed. And the company should have to pay for it...
Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 28, 2025
In the middle of rush hour traffic and my car just stopped and wouldn't start. After having it towed to the closest auto repair shop I was advised that the Fuel Pump Module was bad and needed to be replaced. Cheverolet was aware of this defect which is why they recalled it in 2021.
Suspension, Service brakes, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 20, 2025
A go's threw gas really fast the brakes drag and when it starts/stop it acts funny like it has a hard time starting/stopping and my suspension every time I go over something there's clunking started at 34000 miles when I got it from the dealership and I only have 52,000 miles on it it shouldn't be doing that yet
Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 4, 2025
Fuel pump driver control module went out in my car while trying to drive forward in my drive way. My car will not start again.
Exterior lighting, Service brakes, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 4, 2025
On August 3rd, while driving on the freeway at 55mph, my vehicle's brakes became extremely stiff, and I could not press them down to engage the braking system. I was about to collide with the vehicle in front of me, so I quickly veered right without looking because I had no time. After moving to the right, the brakes finally slowed the vehicle to around 40mph. Luckily, the traffic light turned green, allowing me to continue moving with the remaining momentum. As I attempted to take a turn on a bridge above the freeway, the steering wheel became stiff. At this point, I was unsure whether I could turn the car at that speed with the steering not responding. I need General Motors and Chevrolet to take action on the severity of the situation and make the necessary and appropriate restitution to me for the traumatic and physical injuries sustained during the incident. For the amount of time I've been without a vehicle, I am now running high risk of loosing my job. $3,700. is what they are charging me, which is conveniently not under warranty. When consistently stating that no one really sure what's covered and what's not covered.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 8, 2025
•Initial incident: July 2, 2025 •Recurring occurrences: August 8, 2025 Vehicle Issue Description: Several months ago, the vehicle’s check engine light came on. A diagnostic scan was performed at O’Reilly Auto Parts, but no error codes were detected. The vehicle was taken to an independent repair shop for further inspection. The shop found no mechanical issues and confirmed the vehicle was operating normally at that time. On August 6, 2025, the “Service Brake Assist” warning appeared briefly on the dashboard but turned off shortly afterward. The parking brake warning light also came on that same day, then went off. These warning lights reappeared intermittently on August 8, 2025. No repairs have been made as there are no active recalls related to these issues. However, it is noted that there are consumer complaints reporting similar problems. This raises concerns about potential intermittent or undetected safety system faults, particularly involving the brake assist system and parking brake functionality. Checked brakes again no issues determined per Bridgestone and Mavis.
Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 4, 2025
Check engine light came on got code P1005 and code P1029. Shop had to change out fuel level sensor code came back so they had to change out fuel pump. Car has 55,000 miles on it.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 28, 2025
Engine light continues to turn on after taking it to shop multiple times and no one can find the problem. Code shows P0299. Everything has been checked and there’s nothing to correspond with this code. This has been going on for a year now with multiple fees paid to diagnose and repair.
Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 28, 2025
Apparently my vehicle is experiencing the same fuel system and infotainment issues that others have been recalled for. As someone who has been diagnosed with car related PTSD; these issues have become very distressing to say the least. The infotainment system has shut off countless times while driving. I was traveling and missed my exit,I've also been abruptly been disconnected from important work calls and doctors offices. The fuel system is leaking fuel and the smell comes through the vents. As one of two people that utilize this vehicle that are asthmatic; this is very dangerous for us. Also my toddler aged niece cannot ride because of the harsh chemicals she would have to breathe in. Because of the leaking fuel, I'm terrified that it could breakdown anywhere or better yet worse catch fire while I'm driving. I have attached photos of the issues,unfortunately I can't upload the videos but I have countless in regards to the infotainment system and a video message from the mechanic in regards to the fuel system. If there is anyway I can send them also,it would be appreciated.
Fuel/propulsion system, Mar 20, 2025
I have driven this car for approximately 40,000 miles without issue, and regularly have the oil changed. Based on what my mechanic told me, the fuel pump either failed or detached while I was driving on the turnpike. This resulted in a loss of oil. I was simply accelerating to pass another vehicle when several warning light illuminated. The engine made grinding noises and there was an oil-like smell. The dashboard gave me a warning to “seek engine service immediately” and that “acceleration would be limited.” This was a potentially dangerous situation but luckily it was mid day and not in busy traffic. So I was able to safely pull over to the side of the road. I understand that Equinox models from other years were recalled — why don’t you recall the 2020 models?!
Fuel/propulsion system, Feb 22, 2025
2020 Equinox with14,860 miles stalled in busy intersection due to failed fuel pump module. This part was recalled for the 2021 and 2022 models and was on back order. My vehicle remained at the service center for two weeks and I was without any other means of transportation. If this had happened on the highway it might have resulted in a serious crash with the possibility of a fatality. There were no warning lights or messages prior to this happening.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jan 22, 2025
Engine loss of power while on highway. When tried to excelerate engine sputtered, going up small incline it would not exceed 50mph. Took to auto shop and spark plug tip was broke and error for cylinder #1. They said take to dealer. Took to dealer and they said engine failed. Cyclinder #1 no combustion. Vehicle had 87,000 miles. Engine had to be replaced. $13,000. GM assist covered some but I paid $9072 to replace engine. Vehicle at approx 25000 miles had same issue. I took to dealer and they said a spark plug was cracked and had to replace. I took my vehicle in every 7k miles for oil change and inspection to local Conrad’s total car care. I was originally quoted verbally $9900 for engine repair. I called GM to file a complaint and they said engine “GM cost assist” program called me. When they got involved they offered $4100 towards repairs and dealer - Serpentini Westlake, oh increased their quote to $13k so I still pair $9072. Dealer got an extra $3k for me calling GM to complain and I “saved” or got $800 benefit from GM cost assist. What a scam.dealer refused to give me paperwork showing the details of repairs or breakdown of cost. I received a receipt that stated engine replacement $9072. They wanted me to sign the receipt but would not let me read or view any of the attached paperwork. I refused to sign the receipt and they reminded how much of a favor they did for me by giving me a loaner for approx 10 days while replacing my engine. They additionally said they aren’t required to provide me with any details regarding the GM cost assist or pricing.
Fuel/propulsion system, Jan 14, 2025
fuel pump failed at 48246 miles the car shut off in the middle of a busy road in my city fortunately we were able to coast to a parking lot across the street and had the vehicle towed to Kerry Chevrolet Kerry Chevrolet inspected , confirmed and repaired the vehicle at a cost of $766.75 to me. They would not warranty this and I had to rent a car while mine was in the shop. If it had been warranties by chevrolet I wouldn't have had to rent the vehicle at a cost of $160.43. light on dash came on and car wouldl cut in and out I was on my way to Kerry Chevrolet for service on this issue when it completely stopped.
Vehicle speed control, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 29, 2024
I was driving the car and suddenly the car started accelerating on it's own. No cruise control was on . My wife was in the passenger seat and it was lucky as I did not panic , just taped on the brakes to slow down. This happened many times until we got home and it is dangerous and scary, also this is a know problem with this model car. No lights or warnings came on. We could have easily crashed into a vehicle in front of us, run a red light , etc. No inspections by anyone, maybe it was inspected by the dealer?
Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 28, 2024
The computer module for the fuel pump failed. This caused the car to not start some days. As well as turn off in the middle of intersections after coming to a stop while in traffic. The car is currently at the dealership for 2 months now with the part on back order. Many other Chevy equinox are recalling this same part but not my vehicle. This is concerning as it seems to needed to be added to the list of recalls.
Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 16, 2024
Car would sputter and turn over eventually but then die out. Was unable to drive at all. Luckily I was not driving with my baby in the car when it went out like I see so many others. Took it to the shop and it is a fuel pump issue. I see that other years have been recalled for this so unsure why the 2020 has not.
Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 7, 2024
The Fuel module and fuel pump stalled my car out on a highway causing me to have to quickly roll off the road to not get hit by cars behind me going 60 mph. This car is just at 80000 and the fuel module and pump should not have gone out yet. This seems to be such a problem no one can find the part because it is on back order everywhere, I have been without a vehicle since Sept 19th...and am fixing to go through my second hurricane here in florida with no transportation. I'm trilled with this issue.