I started hearing a knocking noise at 28000 miles. Had serviced but after several miles noise started again. Noise continues so service is needed(10-2-13). I had several gaskets, seal, bolts,fuel pump(which was leaking raw fuel into inside of engine), balance chain, timing chain, guide for timing chain(which guide and debris fell in oil pan), and two tensioner replaced as well as oil life…
2010 Chevrolet Equinox powertrain problems
moderate 173 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
173
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
1crash
1fire
2injuries
When does it fail?
Of the 173 powertrain complaints filed for the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 25,000-50,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Of the 21 model years of Chevrolet Equinox we track for powertrain problems, this one carries the most owner complaints on file — 173.
Owners have filed 173 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
The failure pattern owners describe
Buyer takeaway: The 2010 Equinox powertrain is plagued by widespread transmission wave plate failures (40k–150k miles), excessive oil consumption tied to piston/ring defects, and timing chain stretch—problems GM knows about but has left unrecalled for this model year despite fixing 2007–2009 versions. You'll face repair bills of $3,400–$4,700 for transmission work and thousands more for engine repairs; many failures occur suddenly on highways without warning, creating serious safety hazards.
Owners describe a litany of powertrain failures starting early and recurring relentlessly. Transmission wave plates shatter without warning at 40,000 to 150,000 miles—the vehicle suddenly won't move despite engine revving, or shifts violently into gear. GM fixed this same problem on 2007–2009 models with special coverage but refuses to recall 2010s despite identical failures. Owners spend $3,400–$4,700 replacing transmissions, only to find the replacement fails again or they bought a defective unit.
Oil consumption is rampant: drivers lose 3–4 quarts per 500 miles between services. Dealerships ran oil consumption tests per GM bulletin, then replaced pistons, rings, and fuel pumps—but failures recurred. One owner lost 4 quarts in 500 miles after piston/ring replacement, leaving her unable to get warranty coverage for cylinder wall damage.
Timing chains stretch prematurely at 50,000–115,000 miles, stalling the engine on highways. GM published a technical bulletin with an updated chain kit in 2014, but owners weren't told; repairs cost $800–$4,150. Fuel pumps leak raw fuel into oil, shift solenoids stick and jam gears, throttle bodies malfunction triggering "reduced power" warnings, and PCV valve failures cause sudden oil seal blowouts.
Engine knock and stalling happen repeatedly—dealerships repair, owners drive a few months, and the same problem recurs. One owner took her 2010 in for shifts and stalls four times in 60 days, encountering a new service bulletin each visit. Multiple owners were stranded on highways or nearly hit by traffic; one had her transmission fail between two lanes of rush-hour traffic. Dealers often claim they can't duplicate problems or refuse warranty coverage because powertrain warranties expire before failures appear.
Same Chevrolet Equinox powertrain reports on nearby years: 2008 · 2009 · 2011 · 2012 · 2013
Failure modes owners describe
Transmission Wave Plate Failure (3-5 Reverse Plate Shattering)
The 3-5 reverse wave plate (also called clutch wave plate) in the 6T70/6T75 transmission prematurely shatters or cracks, causing sudden loss of gears, transmission slipping, high RPMs without vehicle movement, and complete transmission failure. Metal particles enter the transmission fluid and damage other components. This is documented as a known issue on 2007-2009 models with special coverage (GM #14404), but 2010 owners report the identical failure without recall or extended warranty.
When: Typically 40,000–150,000 miles; some failures as early as 41,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: High RPMs while vehicle will not move (feels like neutral); Transmission slipping, especially in 3rd and 4th gears; Hard shift from 2nd to 3rd gear followed by loss of power; Whining noise from transmission that increases with RPM; Vehicle cannot shift out of first gear or into reverse; Sudden deceleration on highway despite high engine RPMs; Check engine lights (P0700, P0717) and transmission codes
Codes mentioned: P0700, P0717, P0776
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission replacement or complete rebuild required; quoted repairs range $3,400–$4,600. One owner reported transmission was 'charcoal black and thick' indicating internal damage. Metal particles found in transmission fluid. Some independent transmission shops report GM 6T70 transmissions on national backorder due to known defects.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM issued Special Coverage Adjustment #14404 (March 3, 2015) for 2007–2009 models only, despite identical failures in 2010+ models. No recall issued for 2010 Equinox. Dealerships claim 2010 models were supposedly 'improved' post-2009, but owners report ongoing failures. GM offers minimal goodwill assistance (e.g., $1,546 credit on $4,150 repair) citing expired powertrain warranty.
Excessive Oil Consumption / Piston and Ring Failure
Engine consumes or burns oil at a rate far exceeding normal specifications—typically 3–4 quarts per 500 miles. Owners report oil level dropping from full to near-empty between service visits. Root causes cited include piston/ring defects, zinc/zebra striping on cylinder walls (from manufacturing defects), high-pressure fuel pump leaking raw fuel into the oil, and defective PCV valve causing crankcase overpressure.
When: As early as 500–1,500 miles after oil change; failures reported at 40,000–80,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Oil level dropping 3–4 quarts per 500 miles despite no visible external leaks; Black, burnt-smelling oil; Engine knocking or rattling noise when turning (low oil lubrication); Rough idle and stalling; Check engine light (P0172 'too rich'); Fuel smell in cabin or when parked; Low oil pressure warning light
Codes mentioned: P0172
Repairs/costs cited: Dealerships performed oil consumption tests (PIP 5025) per GM bulletin. Repairs included piston and ring replacement, fuel pump replacement, front and rear main seals, engine oil, oil filters, and in severe cases full engine replacement. One owner replaced pistons/rings in Feb. 2015 and lost another 4 quarts in 500 miles post-repair. Bulletin PIP 5025 states 'break-in' should be max 1 qt per 1,000 miles; actual consumption far exceeded this. Zebra striping on cylinder walls noted as non-warrantable and non-repairable per GM bulletin.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM issued Service Bulletin PIP 5025 (05-16-2012) and Special Warranty coverage for piston/ring replacement, but coverage limited to specific mileage (owners report disqualification at 120k+ miles). Letters about excessive oil consumption reportedly not delivered to all owners. One owner states GM intentionally delayed repairs to run out warranty before issuing bulletin. Catalytic converter failures resulted from excess oil burning, and GM warranty for converter replacement also had mileage caps, leaving many owners out of coverage.
Timing Chain Stretch and Premature Failure
The V6 3.0L engine timing chain prematurely stretches, causing camshaft/crankshaft timing misalignment. This triggers diagnostic codes and can cause the engine to stall, lose power, or enter limp mode. GM issued Service Bulletin SB-10052863-6133 (2014) with an updated timing chain kit, but knowledge of the issue was not communicated to owners proactively. One owner had timing chain replaced once at independent shop, then required replacement again at dealership within months.
When: Typically 50,000–115,000 miles; one owner had replacement at 60,000 miles, then failure recurred
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light with code P0017 (Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation); Transmission appears to go into neutral while driving (actually engine timing issue); Loss of forward drive or ability to move vehicle despite engine running; Engine stall at highway speeds; Reduced engine power warning; Engine continues to run but will not propel vehicle
Codes mentioned: P0017, P0700, P182E
Repairs/costs cited: Requires engine removal and extensive internal work. One owner quoted $4,150+ for transmission and timing chain repairs combined. Another incurred $800 for independent timing chain repair, then discovered extended warranties existed but was 188 miles past coverage. Dealership quoted $1,500 initially. Repair shop reports timing chain kits are on national backorder at GM due to defect rate.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM published Service Bulletin SB-10052863-6133 (2014) addressing timing chain stretch issue and offering updated kit. However, no recall issued. 4-cylinder 2.4L engines had similar timing chain failures that prompted an official recall, but 3.0L V6 (same issue, different engine) not recalled. Owners report GM was aware of issue but did not communicate to owners until after warranty periods expired.
Transmission Shift Solenoid and Electronic Control Failures
Transmission shift solenoids become stuck, clogged with debris, or fail electronically, causing jerky/hard shifts, hesitation between gears (3–5 second delay), or refusal to shift. Early service bulletins (GM 4469G) addressed metal shavings in transmission fluid and solenoid replacement; later bulletins (ECM/TCM/PCM updates) targeted software issues. Multiple repair attempts with software updates and solenoid replacements often do not fully resolve the problem.
When: As early as 2,500 miles (one owner); commonly 30,000–50,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle hesitates or refuses to shift gears, especially 3rd and 4th; Hard, jerky shifting that feels like hitting something; Bucking and vibration during acceleration; Rough idle and stalling at stops; Check engine code P0011 (Intake Camshaft Position System); Transmission codes P0700, P0717; Gear shifting pauses 3–5 seconds at 30–50 MPH
Codes mentioned: P0011, P0700, P0717
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership replaced actuator solenoids, performed ECM/TCM/PCM software updates, and changed transmission oil/filters. One owner took vehicle in 4 times within 60 days, each time encountering a new GM service bulletin. Repairs lasted weeks to months before issue recurred. Owners report transmission was allegedly 'learning' the driver (false explanation per one owner's dealership visit).
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Multiple Service Bulletins issued (GM 4469G for metal shavings; ECM/TCM/PCM updates mentioned in narratives). However, bulletins treated as reactive service items rather than proactive recall. One owner noted GM was not contacting owners about known issues despite issuing bulletins; 'onus put on buyers' to report problems and seek service. Some owners pursued lemon law claims.
Fuel Pump Failure and Raw Fuel Leaking Into Oil
High-pressure fuel pump fails prematurely, causing rough idle, check engine lights, and in some cases leaking raw fuel directly into the oil sump. This fuel contamination burns off rapidly, contributing to excess oil consumption and engine damage. One owner's mechanic reported finding fuel pump leaking raw fuel inside the engine.
When: As early as 47,000 miles; one owner at 28,000 miles reported fuel pump issues along with other engine problems
Symptoms owners cite: Rough idle at stops; Check engine light (fuel system related); All dash lights coming on simultaneously; Fuel smell in cabin or from engine bay; Oil consumption accelerated after fuel pump failure; Engine cannot reach/maintain safe speed
Codes mentioned: P0172, Related fuel system codes
Repairs/costs cited: Fuel pump replacement required. One owner replaced fuel pump and had engine seal replaced; problem persisted. Another had fuel pump replaced at 47,000 miles. One narrative mentions fuel pump recalled separately on this vehicle (owner notes awareness of fuel pump recall in 2017 complaint).
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Fuel pump replacement covered under powertrain warranty if within coverage period. Service bulletin and recall for fuel pump exist but appear separate from oil consumption issues. No special warranty extension mentioned for fuel pump/oil contamination interaction.
Throttle Body and Reduced Engine Power Failures
Throttle body malfunctions cause 'Reduced Engine Power' warning, vehicle shaking violently, inability to accelerate, and loss of engine responsiveness. One owner found identical condition listed in GM TSB 11273 but her 2010 Equinox was not included in the bulletin despite having the exact symptoms. Another owner had throttle body replaced but problem recurred.
When: Reported at under 55,000 miles in at least one case
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light with 'Reduced Engine Power' message displayed; Vehicle shakes violently while driving; Unable to accelerate or maintain speed; Throttle does not respond to pedal input; Vehicle enters limp mode; Exclamation mark warning on dashboard
Codes mentioned: P0700 (and related throttle/fuel system codes)
Repairs/costs cited: Throttle body replacement performed at dealership. One owner's replacement did not resolve issue. Total cost not explicitly stated, but covered initially under warranty. Post-warranty repairs would be at owner expense.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM issued TSB 11273 addressing this condition on multiple GM models, but 2010 Equinox was excluded despite exhibiting identical symptoms. GM refused to cover repair, claiming 5-year/100k-mile powertrain warranty does not apply to throttle body. One owner notes the absurdity: 'Powertrain is the meat of the vehicle which cannot be utilized if throttle body is acting up.' No recall or extended coverage issued for 2010.
Engine Knock / Low Engine Knock Sensor and Secondary Engine Failures
Engine develops loud knocking noise (described as diesel-like rumble) accompanied by rough idle, stalling, and check engine lights. Knocking often correlates with low oil level or timing chain issues. One owner had engine replaced and knocking noise recurred. Another was told engine knock was not covered under warranty despite being an engine defect.
When: Reported at various mileages; one owner at 28,000 miles, another after engine replacement
Symptoms owners cite: Loud rattling/knocking from engine (sounds like diesel truck); Rough idle; Near stalling or stalling at low throttle; Diesel-like startup noise on cold start; Engine noise increases under acceleration; Check engine light codes P0014, P0011
Codes mentioned: P0014, P0011, P0172
Repairs/costs cited: One mechanic diagnosed 'low engine knock' and said engine replacement needed but not covered under warranty. Another shop replaced timing chain, tensioner, fuel pump, and gaskets but knocking recurred. One owner had entire engine replaced and problem reappeared within months.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Engine knock not explicitly covered under powertrain warranty per some dealer statements. No recall or special coverage identified in narratives. One owner disputes dealer claim that knock is owner-abuse issue rather than manufacturing defect.
Rear Main Seal / PCV Valve Failure and Crankcase Overpressure
Rear main seal fails due to excessive positive pressure in the crankcase, often linked to a frozen or blocked PCV valve. GM Service Bulletin 14882 addresses this issue, but not all VINs are covered. Sudden seal failure causes catastrophic loss of oil pressure and engine damage.
When: Reported in winter conditions; one owner experienced failure suddenly while on interstate
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden engine stall on highway; Sudden deceleration with high engine knocking; Strong gasoline smell; Multiple stalls at intersections after initial event; Loud engine noise preceding failure
Repairs/costs cited: Rear main seal replacement required. One owner's repair cost not stated but involved immediate tow to dealer. PCV valve also implicated but repair details not fully specified in narrative.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM issued Service Bulletin 14882 addressing frozen/blocked PCV valve and rear main seal failures. However, GM stated complainant's VIN does not apply to the bulletin, despite matching symptoms exactly. No recall issued.
Transmission Failure with Limp Mode and Loss of Drive
Transmission suddenly loses ability to engage drive or reverse, forcing vehicle into limp mode (limited first gear only) or complete neutral. Often occurs without warning while driving at highway speeds, creating dangerous situations. Transmission fluid described as 'charcoal black and thick' indicating severe internal degradation.
When: 78,000 miles, 85,000 miles, 92,222 miles reported; can occur suddenly after months of acceptable operation
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle will not shift into drive or reverse; Only first gear available or limp mode engaged; Engine revs but vehicle does not move; Vehicle can be restarted and temporarily operates, then fails again; Transmission fluid dark and thick; No warning lights or gradual degradation; sudden failure; Loud clunking from transmission before failure
Codes mentioned: P0700, Related transmission control codes
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission replacement only option; typical cost $4,150–$4,700. Dealerships quote transmission replacement; some owners pursued independent transmission shops. One owner reported transmission shop has two 2010 Equinox transmissions in for repair simultaneously (indicating prevalence). Transmission parts (drum/snap ring) on national backorder.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM offers minimal goodwill assistance ($1,546 credit on $4,150 repair, per one owner). Claims no open recall yet exists. Acknowledged by GM senior advisor that transmission 'shouldn't have failed' but covered under extended/special warranty only for 2008–2009 models. For 2010 owners, powertrain warranty typically expired by time of failure.
Engine Stall, Hesitation, and Loss of Power Under Load
Engine stalls without warning while driving at highway speeds or during merging. Repeated stalls occur even after dealer repairs. One owner experienced three separate stall incidents over a period of months, each creating dangerous situations (nearly rear-ended, almost hit by other vehicles). Another owner's vehicle stalled multiple times on a single trip.
When: Early in ownership (one owner after 3,000 miles); others after 10,000–50,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Engine stalls while driving at highway speed (55–65 MPH); Check engine light illumination; Vehicle hesitates to accelerate or maintain speed; RPM gauge climbs without corresponding acceleration; Engine stalls at stops or low-speed merges; Stalling recurs after dealer repair; No warning prior to stall
Codes mentioned: P0017, P0700, Related sensor codes
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer claimed unable to find cause in some cases despite stall occurring during test drive in other cases. Software updates (ECM/TCM/PCM) attempted. Timing chain, fuel pump, and gasket replacements performed. Problem often recurs after repair.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: In one case, dealer could not find problem and returned vehicle to owner with written statement 'unable to find anything wrong.' Owner forced to continue driving unsafe vehicle. Another owner pursued lemon law claim after 4 service visits in 60 days.
Catalytic Converter Failure Secondary to Oil Consumption
Premature catalytic converter failure caused by excessive oil consumption and engine burning oil. One owner's catalytic converter failed and dealer/GM denied warranty coverage because owner had exceeded 120,000 miles, despite converter failure being directly caused by manufacturer defect (excess oil consumption).
When: Secondary failure after oil consumption issues manifest; one owner at 120,000+ miles
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light related to catalytic efficiency; Reduced power or hesitation
Codes mentioned: Catalytic converter efficiency codes
Repairs/costs cited: Catalytic converter replacement required; cost not stated. Special warranty issued but mileage cap (120k) disqualifies some owners.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM issued Special Warranty for catalytic converter replacement related to oil consumption, but with 120k-mile cap. One owner states GM knew of issue since 2011 but intentionally delayed bulletin release to disqualify owners beyond 120k miles. Owner received notice letter after warranty expired.
Synthesized from 173 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 4 most recent
Tl* the contact owns a 2010 Chevrolet equinox. While driving approximately 45 MPH, the vehicle jerked and failed to accelerate. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the transmission needed to be rplaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 140,000.
In motion vehicle would not get out of second gear forward and reverse, technician states wave plate broken this was replaced under warrant in 2014
We were just getting to the end of highway entry ramp and we could not gain speed and the engine revved up very high beofre it started slowing down. Put the car in manual mode but could not shift into 3rd gear. We were forced into entering the highway at roughly 30mph.
Had powertrain trouble with your 2010 Chevrolet Equinox?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 173 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 150 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 60,000 and 107,000 miles, with the median around 88,889. A quarter of owners report trouble before 60,000; a quarter make it past 107,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2010/Chevrolet/Equinox.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.