Why does the Chevy Equinox consume so much oil?

Oil use in the Chevy Equinox is often due to engine wear or related systems in certain models, rather than a universal defect; diagnosis by a technician is essential to identify the exact cause.

Root causes of oil consumption in the Equinox

Understanding why some Equinox models sip or burn oil requires looking at common engine-related factors that can cause higher oil use. The following explanations cover the main categories engineers and technicians consider when diagnosing oil consumption in these vehicles.

Common causes include:

• Piston ring wear or imperfect sealing in some engines, which allows oil to enter the combustion chamber and burn off with fuel, increasing consumption over time.


• Valve stem seals and guides that deteriorate with age, allowing oil to seep into the combustion chamber and burn.


• PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) system problems, such as a clogged or sticking PCV valve or hose, which can push oil into the intake or crankcase and contribute to burning or apparent consumption.


• Gaskets and seals that age and develop leaks (valve cover, oil pan, timing cover, and other seals), leading to oil loss or coating components in oil that might look like higher consumption.


• Turbocharger oil leaks or failure (in turbocharged variants), where oil can leak into the exhaust or intake pathways, increasing apparent consumption.


• Oil grade, viscosity, and maintenance habits, including using the wrong oil or extending drain intervals, which can affect lubrication performance and overall consumption.


• Driving conditions and style, such as frequent short trips, city driving, or high engine loads, which can exacerbate oil use or mask true consumption patterns.

Note: The exact cause varies by engine type and model year. Some generations of Equinox engines have had more reports of higher oil consumption than others, and GM has issued service information addressing consumption for certain engines. If you notice rapid oil loss, a formal diagnostic is recommended to determine the precise cause and any potential warranty actions.

Model-year considerations

The Equinox has used a range of inline-four and V6 engines across its generations. Oil consumption patterns can differ by engine type (for example, some naturally aspirated and turbocharged designs) and by age-related wear. If you own a model with higher reported consumption, verify current owner advisories, recalls, and service bulletins for your exact engine and VIN, as manufacturers sometimes update guidance or issue fixes for persistence of oil loss.

Engine variants most commonly discussed

In practice, some owners of older Equinox generations note more pronounced oil consumption with certain 4-cylinder Ecotec variants, while newer turbocharged or updated designs may exhibit different behavior. Always check your specific engine code and consult GM’s official recall and service information for your VIN before drawing conclusions.

What to do if your Equinox is burning oil

If you’re facing elevated oil consumption, a structured approach helps pinpoint the cause and determine the right fix. The steps below outline how to assess and address the issue.

Follow these steps to assess and address oil consumption:

1. Track oil loss and maintenance history: note how much oil you add between changes and review service records for timely oil changes with the recommended grade.


2. Inspect for external leaks: check around the valve cover gasket, oil pan, front/rear seals, and hoses for signs of seepage or drips; wipe areas clean to monitor for new leaks.


3. Evaluate the PCV system: replace the PCV valve if it’s stuck or clogged, and inspect hoses for cracks or disconnections that could affect crankcase ventilation.


4. Check for burning oil in the combustion chamber: blue exhaust smoke on startup or during acceleration suggests burning oil; misfire or fuel dilution can accompany this symptom.


5. Assess engine health: consider a compression test and a leak-down test to check piston ring and valve seal condition if burning oil is suspected.


6. Verify oil grade and condition: ensure you’re using the manufacturer-recommended viscosity and that the oil is clean and not contaminated with fuel or coolant; avoid extending oil change intervals beyond recommended guidelines.


7. Consult a dealer or independent shop: if the consumption remains high after basic checks, have a technician perform a formal oil consumption diagnostic and review any applicable warranty coverage or service bulletins for your engine.

Addressing oil consumption often starts with simple fixes (PCV valve, gasket replacement, or a correct oil specification) and can escalate to more involved repairs if wear or engine design is contributing significantly. Timely diagnosis is key to preventing long-term damage and ensuring you’re not masking a deeper issue.

Summary

Oil consumption in the Chevy Equinox is not uniform across all models. It typically arises from a mix of engine wear (piston rings, valve seals), PCV system issues, oil leaks, turbo-related problems on turbocharged variants, and maintenance practices. A careful diagnostic that includes tracking consumption, checking for leaks, evaluating the PCV system, and verifying oil specifications can identify the root cause. Owners should consult a qualified technician and review any relevant GM service bulletins or warranty coverage for their specific engine and VIN. Regular maintenance and timely fixes can usually manage or dramatically reduce excessive oil use, preserving engine health and performance.

Why does my Chevy Equinox burn oil?

A Chevy Equinox burns oil most commonly due to defective or worn piston rings, a known issue in models from approximately 2010-2017 with the 2.4L engine, which allows oil to leak into the combustion chamber. Other causes can include worn valve seals, a faulty PCV valve, or, on newer models, turbocharger issues. Signs of this problem include blue exhaust smoke and frequent oil level checks. 
Common causes

• Worn or defective piston rings: This is the most frequent cause, especially in 2.4L Ecotec engines from 2010–2017, as the rings may fail to properly seal the combustion chamber. 
• Worn valve seals: Worn-out valve seals can also allow oil to leak into the combustion chamber. 
• Faulty PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve: A clogged or failing PCV valve can cause pressure to build up, leading to oil being forced past seals and into other parts of the engine. 
• Turbocharger problems: On newer turbocharged models, issues with the turbo can lead to increased oil consumption. 
• Poor maintenance: Infrequent oil changes or using the wrong oil viscosity can accelerate engine wear and contribute to oil consumption. 

How to diagnose

• Look for blue smoke: The most obvious sign is blue smoke coming from the exhaust, especially when accelerating. 
• Check oil levels frequently: You may need to add oil much more often than once between routine oil changes. 
• Listen for engine noise: Ticking or rattling noises can indicate an internal engine issue. 
• Perform diagnostic tests: A mechanic can perform a compression test and a leak-down test to diagnose internal engine problems like worn piston rings. 

What to do

• Check for a recall or class action settlement: Some models have been part of class-action lawsuits and settlement programs that may cover repairs. Check if your vehicle is included. 
• Inspect and replace the PCV valve: This is a relatively inexpensive part to replace and can sometimes resolve the issue. 
• Consider a piston ring replacement: If the piston rings are the problem, this is a significant repair, but it can restore the engine. 
• Maintain the engine: Continue to get regular oil changes using the correct viscosity oil and check the oil level regularly. 
• Use a quality oil flush: Before your next oil change, consider using a quality oil flush to clean the engine. 

Why is my oil disappearing but no leak?

Losing oil with no visible leak is most likely due to the engine burning the oil internally. This can happen when worn components like piston rings or valve seals allow oil to slip into the combustion chamber, where it's burned off. Other causes can include a faulty PCV valve or a blown head gasket. You should have a mechanic inspect your car to prevent severe engine damage. 
This video explains the common causes of an engine burning oil: 59sHonest Mechanic ColoradoYouTube · May 22, 2024
Common causes of internal oil loss

• Worn piston rings: The rings create a seal between the piston and cylinder wall. As they wear down, oil can slip past them and burn in the combustion chamber. 
• Worn valve seals: These seals prevent oil from leaking down the valve stems. If they fail, oil can enter the combustion chamber. 
• Faulty PCV valve: The positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system removes pressure from the crankcase. If the PCV valve is clogged, it can cause pressure buildup and force oil into other parts of the engine, leading it to be burned. 
• Blown head gasket: A damaged head gasket can allow oil to leak from the engine's oil passages into the combustion chambers. 
• Engine wear: Over time, general engine wear can lead to more oil being consumed during normal operation. 

You can watch this video to see how a faulty PCV valve can lead to oil burning: 1mScotty KilmerYouTube · Oct 7, 2014
What to do next

• Check for blue smoke: While you may not see an external leak, burning oil can often produce a blue or grayish smoke from the exhaust, especially when the engine is under load or after idling. However, if the oil loss is gradual, the smoke might not be noticeable. 
• Consult a mechanic: It is best to have a professional diagnose the problem. They can perform tests like a compression or leak-down test to pinpoint the source of the oil loss. 
• Address the issue promptly: Ignoring oil loss can lead to significant engine damage and costly repairs. Getting the problem fixed early is crucial for your car's longevity. 

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.

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.