What is the recall on the 2018 Equinox rear brake system?

There isn’t a single, universal recall labeled specifically “2018 Equinox rear brake system.” Recall status isVIN-specific and can vary by market. To know if your exact vehicle has an open recall affecting the rear brakes, check official sources using the vehicle’s VIN.

This article explains how recalls are identified for the 2018 Equinox, how to verify whether your vehicle is affected, and what to expect if a rear brake recall applies. It emphasizes using official databases and dealer channels to confirm status and obtain the remedy at no cost.

How to verify recalls for your 2018 Equinox

To verify if your 2018 Equinox is affected, use these official steps to check for active campaigns and the remedy.

• NHTSA recall search: Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s recall portal (nhtsa.gov/recalls) and search by make, model, and year, or enter your VIN to pull up campaigns related to your vehicle.


• GM/Chevrolet VIN status tool: Use GM’s recall lookup by entering your VIN to display any campaigns GM has identified for your specific vehicle, including rear brake–related recalls if applicable.


• Dealer verification: Contact a Chevrolet dealer, provide your VIN, and ask for a recall status check and a free inspection if a recall applies.

If a recall is found, follow the remedy instructions provided by GM or your dealer; recall work is performed at no charge to the vehicle owner.

What happens if your 2018 Equinox is recalled for rear brakes

When a rear brake–related recall affects a vehicle, the typical process includes inspection and a remedy at no cost. Here is what owners should expect.

• Free inspection and remedy: A dealer will inspect the rear braking system and perform the required repair or replacement under the recall campaign, with no charge to the owner.


• Possible component replacements: Depending on the campaign, work may involve rear brake calipers, hoses, parking brake components, or related hardware as needed.


• Testing and safety checks: After repair, the system is tested to ensure proper operation and braking performance.


• Logistics and loaner options: Some campaigns offer a loaner vehicle or rental assistance while the repair is performed, depending on severity and availability.

If you notice any braking concerns, stop driving safely and contact your dealership promptly to have the issue evaluated under the recall remedy.

Summary

Recall information for the 2018 Equinox rear brake system is not a single universal entry; it is specific to each vehicle’s VIN and market. To determine whether your car is affected, check the official NHTSA recall database and GM’s VIN status tool, then coordinate with your Chevrolet dealer for a no-cost inspection and remedy if applicable. Staying informed and using official channels helps ensure any recalls are addressed quickly and safely.

What does service brake assist mean on my 2018 Chevy Equinox?

The "Service Brake Assist" message on a 2018 Chevy Equinox means the system that provides extra braking power in emergencies has detected a fault. Common causes include low brake fluid, faulty wheel speed or pressure sensors, a problem with the brake booster, or issues with the ABS module or wiring. You should have the vehicle inspected by a professional to diagnose and fix the issue, as it can compromise your braking performance. 
Possible causes

• Low brake fluid: Not enough fluid can prevent the system from building sufficient pressure. 
• Faulty sensors: Issues with wheel speed sensors, brake pressure sensors, or the brake light switch can trigger the alert. 
• Brake booster problems: A vacuum leak, a faulty booster, or a bad check valve can affect brake assist performance. 
• ABS module or wiring issues: Problems with the Anti-lock Braking System module or the wiring harness can cause the warning light to appear. 
• Blown fuse: A blown fuse related to the brake system can also trigger the message. 

What to do

• Do not ignore the warning: The warning indicates a potential problem with your braking system, so it's important to get it checked. 
• Have it professionally inspected: Take your vehicle to a mechanic for a proper diagnosis, as they can use a diagnostic scan tool to read the specific error codes and pinpoint the problem. 
• Perform basic checks (if comfortable): You can check your brake fluid level and look for obvious signs of leaks, but further diagnosis will likely require professional tools. 
• Be aware of other potential issues: If you see other warning lights, such as "Service Traction Control" or "Service StabiliTrak," it further points to a problem with the ABS and related systems that needs immediate attention. 

Are there any recalls on the 2018 Equinox?

Yes, the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox has had several recalls, including issues with the driveshaft, the start-stop accumulator, and door window glass. Other recalls have addressed the HVAC system and brakes.
 
Recalls on the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox

• Driveshaft: The right front intermediate driveshaft may fracture and separate, causing a loss of propulsion. 
• Transmission: Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap can cause a transmission oil leak, leading to a loss of propulsion or potential fire risk if an ignition source is present. 
• Window Glass: The driver and front passenger door window glass may not be properly tempered, failing to meet federal safety standards. 
• HVAC System: An emissions recall was issued for incorrect HVAC calibration settings that could cause the start/stop system to deactivate in cold weather. This does not pose a safety risk, but requires a software update at the dealership. 
• Brakes: Some models have been recalled for brake caliper issues. 

How to check for recalls

• To check for recalls specific to your vehicle, use the NHTSA's recall search tool on their official website. 
• You will need to enter your vehicle's 17-digit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), which can be found on the bottom corner of your windshield on the driver's side or on your registration card. 
• A local Chevrolet dealer can also check for open recalls on your vehicle for free, according to this Asbury Automotive page. 

What is the recall on the Chevy Equinox braking defect?

The defect, caused by incorrect software calibration in the brake system control module (BSCM), prevents the vehicle from braking or slowing as intended when the feature is active. The recall impacts only AWD models not equipped with GM's Super Cruise. FWD and AWD models with Super Cruise are not affected.

What is the class action lawsuit on the Chevy Equinox?

There are several recent class action lawsuits against Equinox involving employee and consumer issues, including a major wage and hour lawsuit for California employees that settled for $36 million. Another lawsuit was filed in New Jersey regarding membership cancellation policies, and a separate class action seeks refunds for California members who paid dues during the COVID-19 lockdowns. The New York Attorney General also secured a $600,000 settlement from Equinox for improper practices related to membership cancellations. 
Employee class actions

• California wage and hour lawsuit: A class action for California employees, including personal trainers and group fitness instructors, alleged underpayment for all hours worked and denial of breaks. The lawsuit was settled for $36 million in 2023. 
• New York employment law: A lawsuit alleged that Equinox's flat pay rate for personal trainers violated federal and state overtime laws, and that trainers were owed unpaid wages. 

Consumer class actions

• California gym membership refunds: A certified class action lawsuit for California members is seeking refunds for dues paid during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdowns. 
• New Jersey membership cancellation: A 2014 lawsuit alleged that Equinox violated New Jersey law by automatically renewing memberships and not making it easy to cancel. 
• New York membership cancellation: In May 2025, the New York Attorney General secured a $600,000 settlement from Equinox related to difficulties in canceling memberships. This settlement provides refunds of up to $250 to eligible New York subscribers. 

Other potential lawsuits

• A recent investigation is underway regarding a data breach at Equinox, which could lead to a separate class action lawsuit for affected individuals.