This page covers 3 recalls, 43 owner complaints and EPA fuel economy for the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox.
108 MPGe combined
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 3 tested variants for this model year.
Forward collision avoidance generates the most complaints on the 2026 Equinox, with owners frequently describing the automatic emergency braking activating unexpectedly, hard enough to cause tire squeal or cabin jostling, when no obstacle is present. Both front and rear automatic braking systems draw these false-activation reports, and several owners mention sensors detecting nothing visible in the vehicle's path when the system fires. Lane departure and lane-keeping assist appear alongside these incidents, with owners noting the system behaves erratically or stops functioning. Powertrain complaints center on gear engagement: owners report the vehicle losing drive while in motion after the park button is inadvertently pressed, requiring a full restart to restore gear selection. A separate pattern involves the transmission locking out neutral when the vehicle loses power, leaving the car unable to roll to the shoulder under those conditions.
43
Total Complaints
1
Crash-Related
2
With Injuries
By System
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox has 3 recalls, the most serious involving 21-inch Continental all-season tires that can shed partial or full tread while driving, raising the risk of a crash.
The other two recalls affect this vehicle's EV configuration. The pedestrian alert system may not increase its volume adequately as the vehicle begins moving from a stop, which can leave nearby pedestrians unaware that the car is in motion. There is also a documentation recall: the owner's manual contains errors or omissions that may leave owners without accurate guidance on how to safely operate the vehicle.
At a glance
What can fail
The vehicle radio was not configured during manufacturing to automatically download the electronic owner's manual, which is required for occupant protection compliance.
What the fix does
Dealers will reset the vehicle radio to enable automatic download of the electronic owner's manual at no charge.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The pedestrian alert sound system doesn't change volume enough when the vehicle stops versus when it moves at low speeds, failing to meet federal sound requirements.
What the fix does
A dealer will update the body control module software at no cost, or the update may be delivered over-the-air to your vehicle.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The 21-inch Continental all-season tires on these vehicles may experience partial or full tread detachment.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect all four tires and replace any tires manufactured during DOT week 4024 at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
