Timing chain or cam phaser rattles

What got replaced

Owners who name the part that was replaced mention the timing chain (19 reports) and the chain tensioner (3 reports).

Recalls and investigations

No recall on the engine covers the 2016 model year as of Sep 19, 2026.

When it happens

The middle half of failures fell between 62,000 and 99,000 miles, from the 15 reports that gave a mileage.

What owners wrote

“oil consumption is bad. according to mechanic it has now caused problems with timing chain and tensioner. I have to get that replaced ASAP before engine ties up. There is a class action lawsuit in Missouri for same reason with cars like mine. My car has not even hit 114,000.”

Filed Sep 17, 2025

“no lights came on my car just became sluggish and I continued to drive up the road trying to get to safe spot to stop and it completely shut off on me I had to push out of road thankfully no one was behind me. I had towed to mechanic and he said my timing belt skipped and it had no oil has bent valves and piston damage and that I need a new engine”

Filed Jan 27, 2025

“Timing chain tensioner broke. Fortunately, my wife stopped driving it so the engine didn't blow up.”

Filed Apr 18, 2024

“With no warning my 2016 equinox’s engine began to fail functioning, reduced engine power warning displayed, then the vehicle stalled and would not restart. Professional mechanical review has indicated excessive oil consumption and timing chain issues regardless of a regular documented maintenance and oil changes”

Filed Dec 5, 2023

Other problems on this car

• Windshield wipers stop working 104 reports
• Engine failure, knocking or rod bearing 78 reports
• Engine stalls or loses power while driving 72 reports
• Windshield cracks or distorts 68 reports
• Burns oil or oil level rises 64 reports
• Check engine light or misfire 44 reports