12 Common 2011 Chevy Equinox Problems With Quick Solutions

Recently the 2011 Chevy Equinox has received many complaints regarding its electrical, mechanical, and safety systems. If you drive one, you may experience these complaints easily.

So what are the common 2011 Chevy Equinox problems? Some of the common issues include

• Excessive oil consumption
• Premature engine damage
• Battery drainage, etc. 

These problems make your driving experience with this model a nightmare.

The following discussion will include the most prevalent problems of the 2011 Chevy Equinox. We’ll also provide you with possible solutions to fix these common issues.

Common 2011 Chevy Equinox Problems At A Glance

The 2011 Chevy Equinox model has received multiple complaints from its users. Besides, if you have exceeded the 2011 Chevy Equinox life expectancy of 150,000 miles, facing the following issues isn’t surprising. 

Here’s a list of some common problems and their quick solutions in the table.

Common Issues		Possible Solution
Electrical System Problems	Ignition Shaft Problem	Inspect ignition-related components and repair the defective area
	Battery Drains Quickly	Change the defective rear wiper motor
	Defective HVAC System	Repair the system
	Wiring Issues	Inspect and repair wires
	Windshield Wiper Stops Working	Check the wiper motor and its other parts
Mechanical Issues	Engine Stalling Problem	Fix the oil consumption level
	Transmission Problem	Replace the transmission
	Weak Catalytic Converter	Change the old converter with a new one
	Premature Damage to the Fuel Pump and Balance Chain	Change the damaged components
	Excessive Vibration	Fix fuel-air ratio or repair engine block
Safety Issues	Airbag Sensor Doesn’t Work Functionally	Fix the sensor and keep it on frequent check
	Premature Safety Component Damages	Get help from professional mechanics

2011 Chevy Equinox Problems with Solutions in Detail 

In the following discussion, we’ll elaborately discuss the common problems, including their possible solutions:

Electrical System Issues

1. Ignition Shaft Problem

Sometimes the key gets stuck and jammed in the ignition of the vehicle. As a result, the 2011 Chevy Equinox not starting is a common problem. This problem indicates that your vehicle has an ignition switch issue, ignition lock issue, or ignition shaft issue.

Solution

To fix the 2011 Chevy Equinox ignition problem, follow the following procedure:

• You first need to disconnect the battery and remove the steering cover. 
• Once you have access, inspect the ignition lock cylinder and ignition switch for damage.
• If any of these parts are damaged or worn, you need to replace them with a new one. 
• After installing the new parts, reattach the cover and reconnect the battery. 
• Now the ignition shaft problem should be solved.

2. Battery Drains Quickly

One of the common 2011 Chevy Equinox electrical problems is a bad rear wiper motor. This component can deteriorate prematurely, due to which it cannot go into parking mode. Consequently, it keeps draining the battery.

In fact, when the rear wiper motor isn’t parked, it can keep draining the battery even when the engine is off.

Solution

If you face this problem in your 2011 Chevy Equinox, you’ll be required to replace the bad wiper motor to fix the battery issue. 

• First, remove the wiper arm and motor cover from the wiper motor shaft.
• Next, detach the electrical wires from the motor and remove the mounting bolts.
• You can now remove the rear wiper motor and diagnose it for defects.
• If the motor is damaged, replace it.

Reverse the motor opening process after installing the new motor to complete the process.

3. Defective HVAC System

You may notice your 2011 Chevy Equinox is releasing hot air through the diffuser, and the defrosters are also malfunctioning. As a result, the AC will also not work properly.

Solution

You need to work on the HVAC system to repair it. Some parts are connected to this compartment. You need to inspect those parts and repair the defective ones to solve this issue. Here’s what you need to do:

• Diagnose connected relays and fuses to the HVAC system and ensure they are working functionally.
• Next, inspect the air filter. If it’s clogged or dirty, consider cleaning it.
• You should also check the compressor and blower motor. If these parts are damaged, you need to replace them.
• Look into the thermostat and temperature sensor and ensure it’s working functionally.

Lastly, inspect the HVAC system thoroughly for leakage. If you spot a leakage, you need to repair or replace it.

4. Wiring issues

Wiring problems are the main route to electrical system issues. Many owners have complained about issues with the phone connectivity and radio of the 2011 Chevy Equinox. 

Solution

To fix this problem, you need to inspect the connected wires thoroughly and look for the melted wire.

• Use a multimeter while looking for a defective wire.
• Next, you should ensure that all the wires are connected securely and there’s no corroded wire.
• Diagnose the fuse box and wiring harness as well for wear or damaged electrical wire.

If these inspections don’t solve the wiring issues, your vehicle may need more through inspections with advanced tools. In that case, you should seek help from professionals.

5. Windshield Wiper Stops Working

The windshield wiper of the 2011 Chevy Equinox often stops working due to issues with the wiper functions. This component influences your vision when you’re in the vehicle. Therefore, problems with windshield wipers can put you in danger.

Solution

To fix this issue with the windshield wiper, follow the below steps:

• Check the wiper blades thoroughly and ensure it’s clean and not damaged. Otherwise, you need to clean the blades or replace them.
• Faulty wiper motor relay prevents the wiper motor from getting enough power. It can stop the windshield wiper. Change the defective wiper motor with a new one.
• If the wiper motor fuse is damaged or blown, you need to replace it with a new one.

Mechanical Issues

6. Engine Stalling Problems

If you own a 2011 Chevy Equinox, you may have experienced issues with the steering and excessive oil usage. This vehicle model used about 1 quart of oil for 1000 miles.

These problems can cause damage to the engine, resulting in stalling and low oil pressure. In some cases, the damage from excessive oil consumption can deteriorate the engine permanently.

Solution

The primary solution is to go for a 2011 Chevy Equinox oil consumption fix. Here’s how to fix the consumption level:

• Always keep the oil level on check and fill oil accordingly. Low oil level increases the oil consumption.
• Defective piston rings transmit more oil into the combustion chamber and burn. Hence, you should repair bad piston rings quickly.
• A bad PCV valve lets oil escape from the engine and cause additional oil consumption. Leakage in the engine is also responsible for this problem.

If the engine is permanently damaged, you’ll need to change the whole engine block through a mechanic. However, the 2011 Chevy Equinox engine replacement can be costly.

7. Transmission Issue

2011 Chevy Equinox transmission problems are common for owners. A bad transmission can cause delays in shifting, making whistling noises, grinding at acceleration, shaking while driving, etc.

Solution

If you face these problems due to bad transmission, you have to change it to solve the problem. The transmission is located behind the engine and connected through the torque converter and transmission fluid cooler line. Here’s how to change:

• First, remove the battery and empty the transmission fluid compartment.
• Take out the front wheels, exhaust system, and axles.
• Disconnect the connected wires and parts.
• Now remove the transmission mount and crossmember, then remove the transmission.
• Install the new transmission and set all the parts back again.

Lastly, fill the transmission with new fluid.

8. Weak Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter that comes with this model is relatively weak. It can get wear and tear easily, which affects the emission system of the car. 

Due to a bad catalytic converter, the vehicle will release all the toxic substances with gases. Therefore, it increases airborne pollutants and becomes unworthy on the road.

Solution

You must replace the old catalytic converter with a new one to solve this problem. Here’s how to do it:

• First, find the catalytic converter under the 2011 Chevy Equinox.
• Now use a wrench to remove the catalytic converter connector bolts from the exhaust system.
• Take out the heat shield.
• Swap the old catalytic converter with a new one, then reattach the detached parts again.

9. Premature Damage to The Fuel Pump and Balance Chain

The 2.4L engine of the 2011 Chevy Equinox is designed for a high-pressure fuel pump. This function can cause excessive wear on the shaft seal, balance chain, and plunger piston. As a result, some of the components of this particular model get damaged prematurely.

Solution

Change the damaged fuel pump as soon as possible. You can find the fuel pump inside the fuel tank of your vehicle. And the balance chain is located near the oil pump and crankshaft. Here’s how to change the damaged fuel pump:

• First, disconnect the negative cable of the battery.
• Remove the fuel pump fuse to release fuel pressure. Start the engine and wait till it stalls.
• Disconnect electric connectors and fuel lines from the pump module.
• Now remove the fuel pump module from the fuel tank.
• Replace the damaged fuel pump with a new one.
• Next, reverse the opening process to reattach all parts.

Chevy Equinox High Pressure Fuel Pump Replacement (Code P0172) 2.4 Ecotec Here’s how to change the damaged balance chain:

• Disconnect the negative battery cord.
• Take out the engine cover, accessory drive belt, timing chain cover, and timing chain tensioner.
• Now you’ll have access to the balance chain. Remove the damaged one and install the new balance chain.
• Reattach all the removed parts and check if the problem is solved.

Lastly, if you can’t change it, consider taking it to a vehicle repair shop.

10. Excessive Vibration

Another common mechanical issue with the 2011 Chevy Equinox is experiencing excessive vibration when you try to accelerate your vehicle. This issue often results in smoke flowing out of the engine. The leading causes of this problem are a high fuel-air ratio, bad wire casings, or engine blockage.

Solution

You need to find the root of this problem. Here’s what you need to do:

• Check the fuel-air ratio. If the fuel-air ratio is low, you need to loosen the screw to let more airflow through it and vice versa.
• Wiring issues should be inspected with a multimeter tool to detect defective wires quickly.
• If there’s engine blockage, you should seek assistance from a certified mechanic to repair the engine.

Safety Issues

11. Airbag Sensor Doesn’t Work Functionally

If you own a 2011 Chevy Equinox, you may sometimes see a warning light for the airbag sensor even when there is no crash. It will also refuse to go off, and you may face an unnecessary airbag deployment.

Again, the airbag sensor may not work during a crash; consequently, it’ll fail to protect the occupant from getting injured.

Solution

First, check if the sensor is in good condition. In case there’s an issue with the sensor, consider repairing it. The airbag sensor is located under the front seat. Here’s how to repair it:

• First, disconnect the battery from the airbag sensor.
• Remove all cover panels from the sensor.
• Now, check if any wire is loose or worn. If you find one, you should try to fix it.
• After that, reattach all the removed parts to complete the process.

12. Premature Safety Component Damages

Every time you drive your vehicle, some safety components of your vehicle keep getting worse. These safety components include ABS, tire pressure monitoring sensors, and Stabilitrak. Know about the biggest Tires That Fit Chevy Express Van

Solution

If these safety sensors are damaged, you need to repair or fix them to secure your safety in the 2011 Chevy Equinox. Here’s the changing process of the ABS sensor:

• Use a car jack lifter to lift the front wheel side of your vehicle.
• Remove the passenger-side front tire.
• The ABS sensor is located behind the wheel roller connected to the bearing.
• Check the manual and find the required Allen key number to remove the Allen bolt.
• Now take out the sensor from its connector and remove the gaskets.
• Install the new ABS sensor with the old gaskets and connect the Allen bolt.
• Reattach the front wheel and complete the process.

Replacing ABS speed  sensor in Chevrolet Equinox

How to change the tire pressure gauge:

• First, remove the tire from your vehicle and deflate the tire by removing the valve cap.
• Now separate the tire from the rim using tire removal tools.
• Look for the old tire pressure monitor system and take it out.
• Install the new TPMS by inserting it in the rim pit.
• Next, reinstall the tire and inflate it as needed.
• Lastly, set the tire back and go for a test.

How To Replace TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) Sensors Without A Tire Machine.

How to change the Stabilitrak:

• Use a diagnostic tool to inspect the Stabilitrak problem.
• Find out whether the root of the problem is the sensor, control module, or wire.
• To get access to the Stabilitrak, remove the battery and other connected parts.
• If the wire is the problem, ensure a secure connection or replace the damaged wire. And if the control module is worn, replace it with a new one. 
• Connect the detached components and check if the Stabilitrak is running functionally.

However, replacing these components without expertise may fail to strengthen the safety system. Therefore, you should take your vehicle to the mechanical shop to replace these safety components.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding the 2011 Chevy Equinox problems:

Q: Is there a suspension problem on the 2011 Chevy Equinox?

Yes, there’s a problem with the suspense on this model. You may hear a clunking noise when braking and accelerating due to a bad suspension.

Q: Do the 2011 Chevy Equinox need high maintenance?

Yes, this model needs high maintenance. If you can ensure regular maintenance, it’ll last up to 200,000 miles. However, you need to spend more than $600 on maintenance costs.

Q: Is the 2011 Chevy Equinox a reliable vehicle?

With all these premature wear and tear, J.D Power has given 2 stars out of five as a reliability rating. If we focus on this rating, the 2011 Chevy Equinox isn’t a reliable model.

Conclusion

So you now know the common 2011 Chevy Equinox problems. Though you may face some electrical, mechanical, and safety-related issues in this model, you can solve these problems too.

However, frequent changing of different defective components of the 2011 Chevy Equinox may cost a hefty sum. If changing or repairing any damaged part of the vehicle is difficult for you, seek help from professional mechanics to fix the problem.