What year does Equinox have oil consumption problems?

The most widely reported oil consumption problems affect the first-generation Chevrolet Equinox models from 2005 through 2009 that used the 3.4-liter V6. There are also isolated reports for some 2010–2012 second-generation models with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder. Not every vehicle experiences this issue, and maintenance records can influence outcomes.

Oil consumption has varied by engine, driving conditions, and maintenance history. This article outlines the model years most often cited by owners and reviewers, explains what to watch for, and describes the steps manufacturers and dealers have taken to address the problem.

Model Years Most Affected

Below is a concise overview of the model years and engines most commonly associated with oil-burning complaints among Equinox owners.

Engines and Years

• 2005–2009 Chevrolet Equinox with the 3.4-liter V6: This configuration is the most frequently reported source of oil consumption in owner forums and recalls.


• 2010–2012 Chevrolet Equinox with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder: Reports exist but are much less common than the early 3.4L V6 issues.

These notes summarize where complaints have most commonly appeared. Individual vehicles may behave differently, and many owners never experience noticeable oil loss with proper maintenance.

What Owners Can Do

To approach potential oil consumption concerns, consider these steps before and during a dealer visit.

1. Track oil usage and maintain consistent oil-change intervals. Document any regular loss to establish a pattern.


2. Check for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) or recalls related to oil consumption for your exact model year and engine. A dealer can confirm eligibility for updates or warranty adjustments.


3. Have the engine inspected for common culprits such as excessive piston ring wear, PCV valve issues, or leaks that could falsely appear as burning oil.


4. Ask about an oil-consumption test if you’re outside standard warranty windows. Some manufacturers offer extended warranties or goodwill programs for excessive consumption cases.


5. Use the recommended oil grade and viscosity specified by GM for your engine, and ensure proper maintenance records are kept.

It’s important to note that oil consumption problems are not universal across all Equinox models. If you notice unusual oil loss, contact a GM-certified technician to diagnose the root cause and discuss potential remedies or warranty options.

Summary

Oil consumption issues in the Chevrolet Equinox are most strongly associated with the first-generation 2005–2009 models equipped with the 3.4L V6, with some isolated reports for 2010–2012 models that used the 2.4L engine. Owners should monitor oil levels, consult official service bulletins, and work with dealers to determine whether a diagnosis, warranty coverage, or remedial action is appropriate. As always, individual results vary, and proactive maintenance remains key.

What is the lawsuit for oil consumption on Chevy Equinox?

A large class action settlement was approved for Chevy Equinox models with defective 2.4L engines that caused excessive oil consumption, with potential for owners to receive a share of a $150 million fund. The lawsuits allege the issues stem from defective piston rings, leading to premature engine wear and failure. Some model years, particularly 2010–2017, are involved, but the settlement specifics and eligibility can vary by state.
 
What the lawsuit is about

• Engine defect: The central claim is that the 2.4L Ecotec engines in certain model years have defective piston rings that wear out prematurely, causing excessive oil consumption. 
• Potential consequences: This consumption can lead to low oil levels, which may cause engine damage, ticking noises, and eventual engine failure. 
• Allegation: The lawsuits claim that General Motors knew about the problem but concealed it from consumers. 
• Affected vehicles: The affected models primarily include 2010–2017 Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles with the 2.4L engine, though some sources also mention 2018-2020 models. 

Settlement details

• Settlement amount: A $150 million class action settlement was granted final approval in October 2025.
• Potential payout: Each class member could receive at least $2,149, though the exact amount depends on the total number of claims.
• Eligibility: Eligibility depends on the state where the vehicle was purchased, as different states have different classes (e.g., California, North Carolina, Idaho).
• No claim form needed: For many class members, a claim form is not required to receive a payment, but they must have met certain purchase dates.
• Deadline: The deadline to exclude oneself or object to the settlement was August 8, 2025. 

What to do if you have a affected vehicle

• Check eligibility: If you own or have leased an affected model year, check your eligibility based on your state's class action settlement details.
• Contact the settlement administrator: For specific information on your eligibility and the claims process, you can refer to the settlement website or contact the settlement administrator for your state. 

Why is my Chevy Equinox burning oil so fast?

Your Chevy Equinox is likely burning oil fast due to a common problem with the 2.4L engine involving worn piston rings and potentially a clogged Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system. This allows oil to seep past the pistons and into the combustion chamber where it is burned off, often leading to excessive oil consumption and sometimes blue exhaust smoke. 
Common causes for your Equinox

• Worn piston rings: This is the most frequent cause for excessive oil consumption in these models. Low-tension oil rings can fail to prevent oil from entering the combustion chamber. 
• Clogged PCV system: A plugged up PCV valve or the small orifice within the intake can create excessive crankcase pressure, forcing oil past seals and rings. 
• Engine age: As engines age, wear and tear can lead to internal components like piston rings and seals becoming worn, increasing oil consumption. 

What you should do

1. Diagnose the problem:
   • Check for blue exhaust smoke, which is a key indicator of oil being burned. 
   • Inspect the PCV valve to see if it's clogged, as this is a common and relatively inexpensive fix. 
2. Address the issue:
   • If the PCV system is the cause, cleaning or replacing the valve can help. 
   • If the issue is due to worn piston rings, it is a more significant repair that may require a full engine overhaul or replacement. 
3. Consider your vehicle's history:
   • If your vehicle is within the extended warranty period for this issue, you may be eligible for a free repair from a Chevrolet dealer. 
   • Be aware that General Motors has had past issues and class-action lawsuits regarding this problem, which may offer further recourse. 

Disclaimer: A mechanic should perform any diagnosis or repair work to ensure your vehicle is properly serviced.

What year was the bad year for Equinox?

Years to avoid for the Chevy Equinox are primarily 2010-2017, which were plagued by widespread engine problems like oil consumption, and earlier models like 2005-2008, which had lower reliability. For the third generation, the 2018 and 2022 models also stand out as problematic due to software issues and recalls. 
Years to avoid

• 2005-2008: These early models had numerous complaints and reliability issues compared to later years. 
• 2010-2017: This second generation is widely considered the least reliable due to significant engine problems, including excessive oil consumption, stalling, and timing chain failures, especially with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder and 3.0-liter V6 engines. 
• 2018: This model year had software issues that would cause the check engine light to come on unnecessarily. 
• 2022: This year was affected by multiple recalls for issues like seat-bolt, fuel-pump, and child-seat anchors. 

Years to consider (with caution)

• 2009: Considered the best of the first generation, as the final year fixed some earlier flaws and added safety features. 
• 2014-2017: While still part of the problematic second generation, these years had fewer oil consumption issues than earlier years in that period. The V6 and newer turbocharged engines from later generations are more reliable than the 2.4L four-cylinder option. 
• 2019-2021 & 2023: These are generally considered better years for the third generation, but be aware of some recalls and other complaints that still occurred during this time. 
• 2024: This is a final model year for the current generation, and while it may be affordable, some sources note it as unrefined and underpowered with its base 1.5L engine. 
• 2025: This marks the start of the fourth generation and some sources suggest it may not have fixed many of the issues from previous years, making it a potentially weaker option compared to other SUVs on the market. 

What years did the Chevy Equinox have oil consumption problems?

Most Affected Chevrolet Equinox Models
2010–2017 Equinox with 2.4L Ecotec 4-cylinder engine. 2018–2020 models also reported increased oil consumption issues.