2016 Chevrolet Equinox: Engine complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 211 owner complaints for the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox that list the engine component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11768923 (filed 10/05/2026): “I am filing this complaint regarding a safety-related engine problem with my 2016 chevrolet equinox. my vehicle is currently experiencing excessive crankcase pressure associated with the pcv system. the vehicle requires pcv service, and i have been advised that the excessive crankcase pressure has c…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11768744 (filed 10/03/2026): “Timing chain guide broke and caused catastropic engine failure while driving 70 miles an hour on the highway causing steering, brakes etc to lock up putting me and my family at risk of accident and great bodily harm. vehicle is available for inspection. no prior knowledge of mechanic problems due to…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11758784 (filed 08/22/2026): “In february of 2025, while driving my 2016 chevy equinox home from work, i heard a loud pop and loss of engine power a block from home. the weather conditions at the time were below freezing and light snow. after getting my vehicle home, my neighbor, who works for gm looked under my equinox and di…”
Likely causes
These complaints do not establish a single root cause; read the examples above and get a diagnosis.
Fix, in plain English
No single fix is established by these reports. Check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls, ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs) or extended warranty coverage, then have the system diagnosed.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Internal engine work (lifters, oil consumption, fuel dilution diagnosis) requires engine teardown or dealer software/tests. (Our assessment.)
Cost
No sourced cost range for this issue. Get a written quote after diagnosis.
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
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