2014 Chevrolet Equinox parts and specs

Known problems with the 2014 Chevrolet Equinox

6 of the 6 issues we track for the 2012–2017 generation are documented against the 2014 model year, and 2 carry a recall or service bulletin.

• 2.4L excessive oil consumption (worn piston rings)

  majorGM Special Coverage 15285 / N192291100

  The defining fault of this generation: oil-control rings on the 2.4L Ecotec stick and wear, and the engine burns oil, often 1 quart per 1,000–2,000 miles, which in turn takes out timing chains and, if run dry, the whole engine. GM issued Special Coverage 15285 and later N192291100 (7 years 6 months / 120,000 mi) covering piston-assembly replacement, and settled class-action suits; a separate suit alleged 2014–2017 models have the same defect. Most coverage windows have now expired, so buy used examples only after a compression/consumption check.

  Typical cost: Was free under special coverage; $2,500–$4,500 for pistons/rings out of coverage

• 2.4L timing chain stretch/wear

  moderate

  Closely linked to the oil-consumption problem. Low oil accelerates chain and guide wear. Symptoms are a rattle on cold start and codes P0008/P0016/P0017; unaddressed, a jumped chain can bend valves. Keeping the crankcase full and oil changes on schedule is the best prevention.

  Typical cost: $900–$1,800 for chain, guides and tensioner

• Windshield wiper failure (two recalls)

  moderateNHTSA 16V-582 (2013); NHTSA 22V-165 (2014–2015)

  Wiper systems on this generation failed two separate ways: 2013 models were recalled (NHTSA 16V-582, ~368,000 vehicles) for wiper motor gear corrosion, and 2014–2015 models were recalled (NHTSA 22V-165) after investigation EA19-005 found the wiper module's plastic ball joints corrode and pop apart, killing one or both wipers. Dealers repair free. Check your VIN.

  Typical cost: Free under recall; ~$150–$400 for a wiper module out of recall scope

• Camshaft actuator / VVT solenoid faults (2.4L)

  minor

  Check-engine lights with camshaft position codes (P0010–P0014) are common on the 2.4L, caused by sticking camshaft actuator solenoids, often aggravated by dirty or low oil. Usually a straightforward solenoid replacement; a genuinely worn actuator costs more.

  Typical cost: $150–$450

• StabiliTrak / electrical gremlins from a corroded negative battery cable

  minor

  Random StabiliTrak/traction-control warnings, no-crank events, and flickering electronics on this generation frequently trace to a corroded negative battery cable or ground connection, a cheap, well-known fix that gets misdiagnosed as bigger problems.

  Typical cost: $50–$200

• V6 timing cover and water pump seepage

  moderate

  The 3.0L/3.6L high-feature V6s commonly seep oil from the timing cover gasket and coolant from the water pump as they age. Leaks are usually slow, watch levels and address before they grow; timing cover resealing is labor-heavy.

  Typical cost: $400–$700 (water pump); $800–$1,500 (timing cover reseal)

Full detail, costs and sources on the Chevrolet Equinox problems and years to avoid guide.