2024 Chevrolet Equinox -Including other 2020–2024 Models

Transmission, Engine and Info Entertainment Issues

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox represents the final model year of the third-generation Equinox (2018–2024), which shares the 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, automatic transmission, and many electronic systems with the 2020–2023 models. While the 2024 model is generally considered more reliable than average for its class according to owner surveys, early complaints and data from prior years highlight recurring issues in infotainment/electronics, transmission, engine/fuel systems, and build quality.

As a newer model, the 2024 Equinox has fewer total complaints than 2020 models (which logged dozens of NHTSA reports per category), but patterns from the generation persist. Data sources include NHTSA/CarComplaints.com (limited 2024 complaints: ~5 electrical, 7 brakes, 1 engine, 1 fuel system), Consumer Reports owner reports, and early warranty/repair analyses. Many issues appear software-related or minor but can be frustrating; some (e.g., transmission failure or stalling) pose safety risks. Most are covered under the standard 3-year/36,000-mile warranty or powertrain coverage.

Below is a breakdown of the most common problems, with descriptions, affected years, examples, and visuals where relevant.

1. Infotainment and In-Car Electronics Glitches (Most Frequent Early 2024 Complaint)

Owners report slow startup, screen freezes, audio cutouts, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto dropping or going blank, backup camera staying active while driving forward, and SOS/OnStar connectivity dropping intermittently. These are often tied to software bugs or module sensitivity in early builds.

• 2024-specific: Multiple Consumer Reports owners describe CarPlay blanking out (recovering after restart) and persistent camera/SOS issues.
• 2020–2024 carry-over: Radio/display shutoffs and electrical gremlins were noted in earlier years.
• Severity/Fix: Usually minor (software update or module reset; ~$0–$900). Can be distracting.
• Visual examples (typical 2024 Equinox infotainment interface; glitches often affect the touchscreen/Google-based system):

cars.com

cars.com

2. Transmission Issues (Hesitation, Harsh Shifts, Rare Failures)

Common complaints include hesitation/delays when shifting from Park to Drive/Reverse, harsh downshifts during deceleration, slipping, or (rarely) complete failure. Linked to programming, fluid, or internal components in the 6- or 8-speed automatic.

• 2024-specific: Early reports of momentary delays or harsh shifts; one owner reported full transmission failure at ~16,700 miles.
• 2020–2024 carry-over: A top issue across the generation, with some 2020+ models experiencing shuddering/jerking or needing rebuilds.
• Severity/Fix: Can feel unsafe during acceleration; diagnostic ~$150–$200, repairs $300–$1,500+ (often warranty-covered).
• Visual example (typical transmission warning light/dashboard alert that may accompany issues):

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Transmission Warning Light On? How to Reset & Fix it - YouTube

3. Engine and Fuel System Problems (Stalling, Fuel Pump, Hesitation)

Includes engine hesitation/rough idle, unexpected stalling (sometimes while driving), high-pressure fuel pump failures, fuel leaks/smells, and (in some 2021–2024 reports) excessive oil consumption. The 1.5L turbo engine is a known weak point in the generation.

• 2024-specific: Fuel pump module failures causing the vehicle to die (towed to dealer); fuel line leaks (potential fire risk); engine hesitation/vibration.
• 2020 carry-over: High volume of engine complaints (64 NHTSA for 2020 alone), including stalling, no-start, and shutdowns while driving. Brakes and electrical systems also frequently cited alongside engine issues.
• Severity/Fix: Stalling is a major safety concern; fuel pump often requires replacement (dealer part delays reported). Diagnostic ~$120–$160; repairs $250–$700+.
• Visual example (high-pressure fuel pump in the 1.5L engine bay—common failure point in Equinox models):

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Chevy Equinox P0172 How To Replace High Pressure Fuel Pump

4. Recalls and Safety-Related Issues

• 2024-specific recall (1 total): Door strikers may fracture, risking doors opening while driving (NHTSA 23V869000; affects some 2024 Equinox units—free dealer replacement of all four strikers/bolts).
• 2020–2023 carry-over recalls: Rear LATCH child seat anchors (excessive powder coating; 2020–2023 Equinox/Terrain); some fuel system, airbag, and seat issues in specific years.
• Other: Occasional false safety alerts (lane-keep/collision warnings) due to sensor calibration; minor brake/ABS warnings reported.

Visual note: Door striker issues involve small metal components on the door frame (not easily photographed in complaints, but free fix if affected).

5. Other Notable Complaints (Less Common but Reported)

• A/C & HVAC: Temperature fluctuations or inconsistent cooling (blend door actuators or refrigerant; ~$180–$1,400 repair).
• Interior/Build Quality: Creaky plastics, rattling trim, loose moldings, or exterior trim falling off (warranty-covered in many cases).
• Brakes/Electrical: Minor warnings or glitches (2024 has 7 brake and 5 electrical NHTSA complaints).

Summary and Recommendations

The 2024 Equinox has relatively few widespread issues compared to older years, with most 2024 complaints being software/electronics-related or early fuel/transmission quirks. However, the 2020–2024 generation carries forward engine and transmission vulnerabilities that have led to higher complaint volumes in prior model years. Fuel economy and ride comfort are strengths, but reliability lags some rivals (e.g., Toyota RAV4). Check for open recalls via NHTSA VIN lookup. Test drive thoroughly for infotainment/transmission behavior, and consider extended warranty for powertrain coverage.

Key References & Links:

• Consumer Reports 2024 Equinox Reliability & Owner Comments: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/chevrolet/equinox/2024/reliability/
• Early 2024 Problems Analysis (Granger Warranty): https://grangerwarranty.com/blog/early-reports-2024-chevy-equinox-problems/
• CarComplaints.com (2024 & 2020 data): https://www.carcomplaints.com/Chevrolet/Equinox/2024/ and https://www.carcomplaints.com/Chevrolet/Equinox/2020/
• NHTSA Recalls & Vehicle Details: https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2024/CHEVROLET/EQUINOX
• Additional owner forums: Edmunds/KBB consumer reviews and Chevy-specific Facebook groups often echo these issues.
  
  
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