2017 Chevrolet Equinox · symptom sheet

Engine failure, knocking or rod bearing

75owner reports
81,000median miles
$3,000median quote
1involved a crash

Newest report Apr 21, 2026 · checked Sep 9, 2026

190 of the 271 complaints on this car are about the engine. 75 of those describe engine failure, which makes it the most reported problem on the 2017 Equinox.

Tick what matches of 75 reports

a knocking or ticking noise first

the engine seized

oil light or low oil

the engine was replaced

it was covered by a warranty or extension

I was denied coverage

What got replaced

Owners who name the part that was replaced mention the engine (66 reports) and the timing chain (12 reports).

Recalls and investigations

No recall on the engine covers the 2017 model year as of Sep 9, 2026.

What owners paid

27 of the 75 reports quote a price. Each dot is one quote. The middle half runs $1,400 to $8,000.

$1,400$3,000$8,000

$0k$2k$4k$6k$8k

When it happens

The middle half of failures fell between 65,550 and 105,000 miles, from the 28 reports that gave a mileage.

119

420

421

922

1223

1524

2125

926

What owners wrote

“Engine failed in traffic at stop sign Numerous reports of burning oil Quickly and engine failing... Could happen at any time anywhere leaving one stranded and at risk of collision or crime... After having it replaced at 64000 miles it did the same thing 1 year later. Cost 10000$. Thousands of people have reported this defect.”
Filed Sep 6, 2025 · 64,000 miles

“114k miles and the PCV valve was collecting condensation which froze. This caused a build up of pressure and blew the rear main oil seal and timing chain. No warning, no dash lights, nothing. Oil life at 35% and over 1,000 miles before due for next oil change. Went from running fine to DEAD in less than 1/4 of a mile.”
Filed Jan 21, 2025 · 114,000 miles

“Rear main seal engine could have blown causing accident on highway or other road while driving. GM knows of this ongoing problem with this vehicle . Problem was reported by auto shop. Auto shop pulled up to customer of this GM ongoing problem. Car produces no warning lights . no warning lap messages no other symptoms of problems prior to failure. First. When temperature was around 5Â°”
Filed Jan 19, 2024

“Oil consumption issues, faulty valves caused decreased engine pressure light, engine light. Unable to go over 25 m/h and now will not even start. Told this is a known issues with vehicle and I need a new engine.”
Filed Mar 13, 2023

Should you keep driving it?

This page can't tell you that. 1 of 75 reports involved a crash. Owners who file are the ones who had a bad experience, and nobody checks their reports. If the problem affects steering, braking, power or a fire risk, treat it as a safety fault and have it inspected before a long or high-speed drive.

File your own report with NHTSA. Complaint counts are how a problem gets an investigation.