CHEVROLET EQUINOX · model year

2015 CHEVROLET EQUINOX

835 NHTSA complaints, 37 crash reports, and 2 active recalls for this specific cohort.

NHTSA overall rating

4 / 5 ★

New Car Assessment Program

The 2015CHEVROLETEQUINOX carries 835 consumer safety complaints in NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation database for this specific model-year cohort. Within that volume, owners reported 37 crashes, 8 fires, 32 injuries, and 0 fatalities. For crash performance, NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gave this cohort an overall 4/5 rating, with 4/5 front crash, 5/5 side crash, and 4/5 rollover scores derived from standardized barrier and dynamic tests.

Component-level analysis is where model-year complaints become actionable: the top complaint category for the 2015 EQUINOX is visibility/wiper with 250 filings, followed by engine (222) and power train (61). Concentration in one or two component groups is the classic signature of a systemic defect; a flat distribution usually reflects normal aging, warranty complaints, or isolated build-plant variability. This model year has 2 active recall campaigns, which means the manufacturer is obligated to remedy the covered defect at no charge for the life of the vehicle — the full NHTSA campaign numbers are listed below.

NHTSA currently has 57 investigation files overlapping the 2015 EQUINOX, and 2 remain open. Owners comparing this cohort against neighboring years should pair the counters above with the complaint-by-year trend on the parent model page — a spike in a single year often tracks to a platform refresh, a new transmission supplier, or an updated ECU calibration. Use the related-complaint feed below to read raw owner narratives before deciding whether any pattern here affects your specific use case.

835
Complaints
37
Crashes
8
Fires
32
Injuries
0
Deaths
2015 CHEVROLET EQUINOX — NHTSA crash-test profile NHTSA NCAP crash-test star ratings for the 2015 CHEVROLET EQUINOX. Overall composite: 4.0 of 5 stars across 3 safety dimensions. Front CrashSide CrashRollover 4.0 NHTSA NCAP of 5 stars
  • Front Crash 4.0 ★
  • Side Crash 5.0 ★
  • Rollover 4.0 ★
NHTSA overall 4.0/5 stars, with front-crash, side-crash and rollover ratings from standardized NCAP barrier and dynamic tests.

Total Complaints

835 filings

Crashes Reported

37 reports

Source

NHTSA ODI

Federal complaints database

Complaints vs. fleet median (215)

Above median complaint volume — review patterns below.

NHTSA NCAP overall: 4/5 — Strong NCAP rating · Front: 4/5 · Side: 5/5 · Rollover: 4/5

Complaints by Component

ComponentCount
VISIBILITY/WIPER250
ENGINE222
POWER TRAIN61
UNKNOWN OR OTHER53
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM44
AIR BAGS36
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM30
VISIBILITY18
SERVICE BRAKES15
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)15
STEERING14
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL13
STRUCTURE:BODY8
SUSPENSION7
WHEELS6

Recalls (2)

22V16500017/03/2022

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014-2015 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles. The ball joints in the windshield wiper module may corrode, causing one or both windshield wipers to fail.

15V66600016/10/2015

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015 Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac XTS, Chevrolet Camaro, Equinox, Malibu, and GMC Terrain vehicles. The affected vehicles have front seat-mounted side impact air bags whose inflator may rupture upon its deployment.

Recent Complaints

20260219ENGINE

Noticed knocking in the engine and excessive oil usage. I keep my vehicle maintained. I went and had the values and seals replaced around engine for oil. Not even two to three weeks later knocking again. Took it back and engine is burning oil. Read about this make and model having defective pistons and rings causing oil to burn excessively. This has cost me thousands of dollars and it's still not fixed.

20260127ENGINE

My daughter, the driver of this vehicle, noticed a noise. The check engine light came on. Over a short period, the noise from the engine progressively worsened. We brought the car to a certified mechanic. The mechanic's initial determination was that the engine would need to be replaced. It was determined that the engine was faulty, failing due to oil leakage that led to excessive oil consumption. As we were not ready to make that kind of financial commitment, we asked him if there was another option. We were instructed to check the oil frequently. We did so over the next couple of months, but the problem continued and worsened. As my daughter was driving, the engine would make a noise and lose power. Eventually, the vehicle started shaking and would shut down when stopped at red lights and stop signs, requiring the engine to be restarted each time. We then brought it back to the mechanic, and the engine was replaced with a new one.

20260125AIR BAGS

The ref air bag sensor appeared in my 2015 Chevy Equinox today. My vehicle has not been in a car accident as of today 1/24/26. None of my airbags have been deployed at all. I would like to report this defect and I would like Viva Chevrolet in El Paso Texas to be notified since that is the dealership where I purchased based my vehicle. Thank you. [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

20260115ENGINE

Excessive oil consumption leading to a broken engine

20260115FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Excessive oil consumption leading to a broken engine

20260112ENGINE

The 2015 Chevrolet Equinox equipped with the 2.4L Ecotec engine has been reported to have excessive oil consumption due to several issues: Defective Piston Rings: The oil control rings are prone to sticking and clogging, leading to oil blowby and excessive consumption. PCV System Issues: Problems with the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system can create excessive vacuum in the crankcase, contributing to oil consumption. Timing Chain Problems: The timing chain can stretch over time, leading to misalignment and potential engine damage. Regular Maintenance: Owners are advised to monitor oil levels frequently and consider using synthetic oil for better performance and longevity. These issues can lead to significant engine wear if not addressed promptly. My vehicle is using too much oil. The 2.4L eco tec engine is installed in this vehicle. The Chevrolet dealership in Rockwall Texas texted me that the engine is bad and needs replacing. The vehicle is past is warranty, so the dealer

20260102UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I bought a vehicle from a small dealership as a "as is". My passenger side door shifted. Its does not state on the title and I was not told that it was in a accident. I have had this vehicle about a month now. I have a loan against it.

20251229ENGINE

The 2.4 liter engine in my car has had excessive oil consumption. now the engine oil is like peanut butter and the blow by out the oil fill is strong.

20251228UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I am submitting this complaint due to a serious mechanical failure involving the vehicle’s transmission system. The transmission developed a fluid leak that resulted in a sudden loss of proper hydraulic pressure, causing abrupt and unintended vehicle movement while driving. This malfunction created a hazardous driving condition and nearly caused an accident. Given that the vehicle has approximately 77,000 miles, this type of transmission failure is premature and raises concerns regarding a potential manufacturing or component defect. Immediate review and corrective action are requested due to the safety implications of this issue.

20251220ENGINE

My 2015 Chevrolet Equinox has a cracked exhaust manifold, a known issue affecting many vehicles of this model. When using the heat or air conditioning, gas fumes enter the cabin, creating a serious risk of carbon monoxide exposure. I regularly transport my two young children in this vehicle, and we are forced to drive with the windows down in cold weather to reduce the risk. The vehicle also consumes oil and is still being financed. Despite the manufacturer being aware that this is a widespread problem, I am being quoted nearly $2,000 for the repair. This poses an immediate and serious threat to the health and safety of my children and myself.

20251220FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

My 2015 Chevrolet Equinox has a cracked exhaust manifold, a known issue affecting many vehicles of this model. When using the heat or air conditioning, gas fumes enter the cabin, creating a serious risk of carbon monoxide exposure. I regularly transport my two young children in this vehicle, and we are forced to drive with the windows down in cold weather to reduce the risk. The vehicle also consumes oil and is still being financed. Despite the manufacturer being aware that this is a widespread problem, I am being quoted nearly $2,000 for the repair. This poses an immediate and serious threat to the health and safety of my children and myself.

20251219FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. While the vehicle was stopped at a traffic light, the vehicle jerked and idled roughly and nearly stalled. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone to be diagnosed. The contact was provided with DTC P0172. The vehicle was not repaired. Several days later, the vehicle was taken for an oil change, and transmission fluid was flushed and refilled. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, a week after the oil change, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact took the vehicle back to Auto Zone to be diagnosed. The contact was provided with the same DTC: P0172. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer. The contact could not leave the vehicle at the dealer. The contact spoke with one of the mechanics at the dealer, who suggested that the high-pressure fuel

Mileage: 197,000

20251216FireUNKNOWN OR OTHER

When I was driving down the street, I noticed smoke coming from the hood then flames . I parked off to the side of the road and open the door and took off running away from the vehicle. Loosing everything clothes, phones , jewelry important documents. I paid off the vehicle. Was happy that for once in my life I did something good until that happen so please help on what to do . I know I didn't pay off the SUV for nothing.

20251216FireFUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

When I was driving down the street, I noticed smoke coming from the hood then flames . I parked off to the side of the road and open the door and took off running away from the vehicle. Loosing everything clothes, phones , jewelry important documents. I paid off the vehicle. Was happy that for once in my life I did something good until that happen so please help on what to do . I know I didn't pay off the SUV for nothing.

20251216FireENGINE

When I was driving down the street, I noticed smoke coming from the hood then flames . I parked off to the side of the road and open the door and took off running away from the vehicle. Loosing everything clothes, phones , jewelry important documents. I paid off the vehicle. Was happy that for once in my life I did something good until that happen so please help on what to do . I know I didn't pay off the SUV for nothing.

20251216ENGINE

Timing chain tensioner lost tension and timing chain got so loose it would not turn the cams and catastrophic engine valve damage was done! This engine is notorious for this and there are class action lawsuits as a result but no recalls from GM as yet only TSB’s (Technician Service Bulletins). This is going to cost me thousands in repairs and I still owe $8500 on it. If this happens in traffic it could pose a serious safety risk in addition to the financial burden it is causing many people! Mine fortunately happened in my driveway and the vehicle had to be towed to my mechanic and has been there for 3 weeks. Have had rental vehicle costs as well. He had 3 other 2010-‘16 GM 4 cylinder 2.4L Ecotec engines in his small shop with the exact same issue! After doing research it is a common issue and GM has done nothing to solve it!

20250923CrashAIR BAGS

Hello, on September 5, 2025 I was driving my 2015 Chevy equinox. I was in a collision while driving my 2015 equinox going at a speed of 60 mph on a highway. On the day of the collision i hit a cargo truck that was carrying vehicles an it completely destroyed the front of my 2015 chevy equinox despite the severity of the impact. None of the airbags deployed. Fortunately me and my daughter did not sustain any injuries but I agree strongly that air bags should have deployed by the severity and location of the impact. This could have been more dangerous if someone else had been in the vehicle or if the wreck was slightly worse. My vehicle was viewed by the police at scene but no one else. There was no warning lights or messages prior to the accident. I am submitting this report because I believe the airbag system may have failed and I wanna make sure this is investigated I still have the vehicle and can provide photos and further details if needed.

20250919WHEELS

THIS AUTO IS NOT DRIVEN OFTEN DUE TO THE FACT THAT THE OWNER IS OUT OF TOWN FOR WORK MORE THAN SHE IS HOME. THE CAR WAS DRIVEN ON A THREE HOUR TRIP WHEN THE SIDEWALL OF THE MICHELIN LATITUDE TOUR 225/65/R17 TIRE BLEW OUT. SHE WAS ABLE TO JUST MAKE IT OFF THE ROAD AND CHANGE THE TIRE. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION ANOTHER TIRE SHOWS SIDEWALL CRACKING THAT COVERS THE OUTSIDE SIDEWALL.

20250918ENGINE

My vehicle has been cranking when trying to turn on. Sometimes when it does turn on, it will engage the anti theft system. It will also turn on my 4-ways, and windshield wipers other times without me triggering these buttons. Sometimes it will say that I don’t have power steering. Other times, my AC will not work. It puts me and my family at risk because if the system is continuously having issues, I worry that something bad will happen while we are driving! I saw that there are other similar complaints online for the 2015 Chevy equinox. I have no dashboard lights on, other than tire pressure light (which my tire pressure is fine, but the sensor for this has malfunctioned as well). This has been an ongoing and worsening issue since January 2024. I purchased the vehicle with no issues in December 2023.

20250918ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

My vehicle has been cranking when trying to turn on. Sometimes when it does turn on, it will engage the anti theft system. It will also turn on my 4-ways, and windshield wipers other times without me triggering these buttons. Sometimes it will say that I don’t have power steering. Other times, my AC will not work. It puts me and my family at risk because if the system is continuously having issues, I worry that something bad will happen while we are driving! I saw that there are other similar complaints online for the 2015 Chevy equinox. I have no dashboard lights on, other than tire pressure light (which my tire pressure is fine, but the sensor for this has malfunctioned as well). This has been an ongoing and worsening issue since January 2024. I purchased the vehicle with no issues in December 2023.

Compare 2015CHEVROLETEQUINOX to Similar Vehicles

NHTSA Investigations 2 Open

View all investigations

Frequently Asked Questions

How many complaints does the 2015 CHEVROLET EQUINOX have?
The 2015 CHEVROLET EQUINOX has 835 NHTSA complaints, 37 crashes, 8 fires, 32 injuries, and 0 deaths reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2015 CHEVROLET EQUINOX?
The 2015 CHEVROLET EQUINOX received an overall NHTSA safety rating of 4/5, front crash rating of 4/5, side crash rating of 5/5, and rollover rating of 4/5.
Are there any recalls for the 2015 CHEVROLET EQUINOX?
Yes, the 2015 CHEVROLET EQUINOX has 2 recall(s). The most common affected component is VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR. Recalls are issued by NHTSA and manufacturers must provide a free remedy.
What are the most common problems with the 2015 CHEVROLET EQUINOX?
The most-complained component for the 2015 CHEVROLET EQUINOX is VISIBILITY/WIPER with 250 complaints. Other frequently reported areas include ENGINE and POWER TRAIN.
Is the 2015 CHEVROLET EQUINOX safe to buy?
Review the complaint history, crash and fire reports, safety ratings, and recall status on this page to make an informed decision. The 2015 CHEVROLET EQUINOX has an NHTSA safety rating of 4/5. Compare with other model years using the links above.
Where does this data come from?
All complaint, recall, and safety rating data is sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Complaints are filed by vehicle owners through NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation.

Vehicle Safety Guides

Data as of 2025. Sources: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) complaints database, NHTSA recall campaign API, NHTSA NCAP crash-test ratings, and NHTSA FARS for fatality cross-reference.