2013 Chevy Equinox Oil Consumption Fix

If you own a 2013 Chevy Equinox, you may have noticed that your vehicle consumes more oil than usual. 

This is a common problem that affects many owners of this model, and it can lead to serious engine damage if left untreated. 

Fortunately, there are some ways to fix the oil consumption problem in your 2013 Chevy Equinox, and this article will show you how. 

You will learn the causes of the oil consumption issue, the symptoms to look out for, and the solutions to apply. 

By following these steps, you can save money, improve your vehicle’s performance, and extend its lifespan. 

Read on to find out how to fix the oil consumption problem in your 2013 Chevy Equinox.

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What Causes the Oil Consumption Problem in the 2013 Chevy Equinox?

The oil consumption problem in the 2013 Chevy Equinox is mainly caused by a defect in the piston rings and the cylinder walls of the engine.

The piston rings are metal rings that seal the gap between the piston and the cylinder wall, preventing the oil from leaking into the combustion chamber. The cylinder walls are the inner surfaces of the cylinders where the pistons move up and down.

However, in some 2013 Chevy Equinox models, the piston rings and the cylinder walls are not properly aligned or fitted, resulting in excessive wear and tear. This causes the piston rings to lose their sealing ability and the cylinder walls to become rough and scratched.

As a consequence, the oil can easily seep past the piston rings and enter the combustion chamber, where it is burned along with the fuel and air mixture. This leads to increased oil consumption, reduced engine performance, and increased emissions.

The oil consumption problem in the 2013 Chevy Equinox can also be aggravated by other factors, such as driving habits, environmental conditions, and maintenance practices.

For example, driving at high speeds, under heavy loads, or in extreme temperatures can increase the stress on the engine and the oil.

Similarly, using low-quality oil, skipping oil changes, or ignoring oil level warnings can worsen the oil consumption problem.

Therefore, it is important to follow the recommended oil specifications, intervals, and procedures for your 2013 Chevy Equinox, as well as to monitor the oil level regularly and to address any signs of oil consumption promptly.

How do I know if my Chevy Equinox has an oil consumption problem?

One of the ways to know if your Chevy Equinox has an oil consumption problem is to check the oil level regularly using the dipstick. 

The dipstick is a metal rod that measures the amount of oil in the engine. You can find it under the hood of your vehicle, near the oil filler cap. To check the oil level, you need to follow these steps:

• Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine. Wait for a few minutes to let the oil settle in the oil pan.
• Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag or a paper towel.
• Insert the dipstick back into the tube and push it in.
• Pull out the dipstick again and look at the oil level on the tip. There should be two marks on the dipstick, indicating the minimum and maximum oil levels. The oil level should be between these two marks. If the oil level is below the minimum mark, it means your vehicle is consuming too much oil and you need to add more oil as soon as possible. If the oil level is above the maximum mark, it means your vehicle has too much oil and you need to drain some oil to avoid engine damage.
• If the oil level is normal, check the color and consistency of the oil. The oil should be brown or black, and smooth and slippery. If the oil is milky, foamy, or gritty, it means there are water, coolant, or metal particles in the oil, which could indicate a serious engine problem. You should take your vehicle to a mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.

Another way to know if your Chevy Equinox has an oil consumption problem is to monitor the oil pressure and the oil change indicator lights on your car’s dashboard.

The oil pressure light is a red or yellow symbol that looks like an oil can. It indicates the pressure of the oil in the engine.

The oil pressure light should come on briefly when you start the engine, and then go off. If the oil pressure light stays on, flashes, or comes on while driving, it means the oil pressure is too low, which could be caused by oil consumption or other issues.

You should stop the vehicle as soon as possible and check the oil level. If the oil level is low, add more oil and restart the engine. If the oil level is normal, or if the oil pressure light does not go off after adding oil, you should take your vehicle to a mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.

The oil change indicator light is a green or yellow symbol that looks like a wrench. It indicates when you need to change the oil in your engine. The oil change indicator light is based on a system that monitors your driving habits and the condition of the oil.

The oil change indicator light should come on when the oil life reaches 15% or less. If the oil change indicator light comes on sooner than expected, or if it does not reset after changing the oil, it could mean that your vehicle is consuming too much oil or that the oil change indicator system is malfunctioning.

You should check the oil level and change the oil if needed. You should also consult your owner’s manual or a mechanic on how to reset the oil change indicator light.

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What are some signs of low engine oil On a 2013 Chevy Equinox?

Some signs of low engine oil on the 2013 Chevy Equinox are:

• The oil pressure light on the dashboard

This is a red or yellow symbol that looks like an oil can. It indicates the pressure of the oil in the engine. If the oil pressure light stays on, flashes, or comes on while driving, it means the oil pressure is too low, which could be caused by oil consumption or other issues.

• Bad noises from the engine

If the engine is running low on oil, it may produce loud, knocking, rattling, or grinding noises. This is because the oil lubricates the moving parts of the engine and reduces friction and wear. Without enough oil, the metal parts can rub against each other and cause damage.

• Check engine light

This is a yellow symbol that looks like an engine. It indicates that there is a problem with the engine or the emission system. If the check engine light comes on, it could mean that the engine is burning oil, which can affect the performance and the emission of the vehicle.

• Seized engine

This is the worst-case scenario for low-engine oil. If the oil level is extremely low or the oil pressure is very low, the engine can overheat and seize up. This means that the engine stops working and cannot be restarted. This can result in costly repairs or replacement of the engine.

How to Check if Your 2013 Chevy Equinox is Burning Oil?

One of the ways to check if your 2013 Chevy Equinox is burning oil is to look at the exhaust smoke. The exhaust smoke is the gas that comes out of the tailpipe of your vehicle. Normally, the exhaust smoke should be colorless or slightly gray, depending on the fuel type and the weather conditions. 

However, if your vehicle is burning oil, the exhaust smoke may have a bluish or blackish color, and a strong, oily smell. This is because the oil that leaks into the combustion chamber is burned along with the fuel and air mixture, producing smoke that contains oil particles and carbon.

To check the exhaust smoke, you need to follow these steps:

• Park your vehicle in a well-ventilated area and turn on the engine. Let it run for a few minutes to reach the normal operating temperature.
• Ask a friend or a helper to stand behind the vehicle and observe the exhaust smoke. You can also use a mirror or a camera to see the exhaust smoke yourself.
• Rev the engine a few times and watch the color and the smell of the exhaust smoke. If the exhaust smoke is bluish or blackish, and has a strong, oily smell, it means your vehicle is burning oil. If the exhaust smoke is colorless or slightly gray and has no noticeable smell, it means your vehicle is not burning oil.
• Turn off the engine and check the oil level using the dipstick. If the oil level is low, it could be a sign of oil consumption. You should add more oil and monitor the oil level regularly. If the oil level is normal, it could mean that the oil consumption is not severe enough to affect the oil level, or that other factors cause the oil burning, such as faulty spark plugs, worn valve seals, or damaged gaskets.

What are the Risks of Ignoring the Oil Consumption Problem in Your 2013 Chevy Equinox?

Ignoring the oil consumption problem in your 2013 Chevy Equinox can have serious consequences for your engine and your wallet.

According to Consumer Reports, the 2010 to 2013 model year Chevy Equinox compact crossover is prone to experiencing engine issues that may cause it to burn excessive amounts of oil. 

This can lead to:

• Engine damage or failure due to low oil level or pressure
• Spark plug fouling and carbon buildup on the pistons and cylinder walls
• Engine knocking, jerking, or stalling
• Reduced fuel economy and performance
• Increased emissions and pollution

How to Fix the Oil Consumption Problem in Your 2013 Chevy Equinox?

To fix the oil consumption problem in your 2013 Chevy Equinox, you need to address the main cause of the problem, which is a defect in the piston rings and the cylinder walls of the engine.

The piston rings are metal rings that seal the gap between the piston and the cylinder wall, preventing the oil from leaking into the combustion chamber. 

The cylinder walls are the inner surfaces of the cylinders where the pistons move up and down. However, in some 2013 Chevy Equinox models, the piston rings and the cylinder walls are not properly aligned or fitted, resulting in excessive wear and tear. 

This causes the piston rings to lose their sealing ability and the cylinder walls to become rough and scratched. As a consequence, the oil can easily seep past the piston rings and enter the combustion chamber, where it is burned along with the fuel and air mixture. This leads to increased oil consumption, reduced engine performance, and increased emissions.

To fix this defect, you need to replace the defective piston assemblies with new ones that have improved design and quality. This is a complex and costly procedure that requires professional skills and tools. 

You should take your vehicle to a certified mechanic or a GM dealer for this repair.

According to a technical service bulletin (TSB) issued by GM in 2016, the automaker offered to extend the warranty for owners of Equinoxes models 2010 to 2013 to cover the cost of replacing defective piston assemblies.

However, this warranty extension may have expired by now, so you may have to pay for the repair yourself.

Replacing the piston assemblies is the most effective way to fix the oil consumption problem in your 2013 Chevy Equinox, but it is not the only way. There are some other steps you can take to reduce the oil consumption rate and improve the engine performance and lifespan of your vehicle. Some of these steps are:

• Use high-quality oil that meets the specifications and standards recommended by GM for your 2013 Chevy Equinox. 

Low-quality oil can degrade faster and lose its viscosity, which means it can flow more easily and leak past the piston rings. Low-quality oil can also cause sludge and carbon buildup in the engine, which can clog the oil passages and reduce the oil pressure.

High-quality oil can provide better lubrication, protection, and performance for your engine. You should also change the oil and the oil filter regularly, according to the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual.

• Drive moderately and avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking. 

Driving at high speeds, under heavy loads, or in extreme temperatures can increase the stress and the heat on the engine and the oil.

This can cause the oil to thin out and evaporate faster, which can lead to oil consumption. Driving moderately can reduce the engine load and the oil demand, and improve the fuel economy and the emission of your vehicle.

You should also check the oil level more frequently and add more oil if needed, especially before and after long trips or in hot or cold weather.

• Inspect the engine and the surrounding areas for signs of oil leaks, such as oil stains, drips, or puddles. 

Leaks can occur in the gaskets, seals, or hoses that connect the engine components and the oil system. Leaks can allow the oil to escape from the engine and drip onto the ground or other parts of the vehicle. This can result in oil loss and oil consumption.

If you find any leaks, you should replace the damaged gaskets, seals, or hoses as soon as possible. You should also look for smoke or smell of burning oil from the exhaust or the engine compartment, which can indicate oil burning.

• Check the spark plugs regularly and replace them if they are dirty, damaged, or worn out. 

Spark plugs are the devices that ignite the fuel and air mixture in the combustion chamber. Faulty or worn spark plugs can cause incomplete combustion and misfires in the engine, which can affect the fuel and air mixture and the engine’s performance.

This can also cause the oil to enter the combustion chamber and burn along with the fuel and air, which can result in oil consumption. Checking the spark plugs regularly can help you detect and prevent oil burning, and improve the engine efficiency and power.

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What are the Benefits of Fixing the Oil Consumption Problem in Your 2013 Chevy Equinox?

Fixing the oil consumption problem in your 2013 Chevy Equinox can have many benefits for you and your vehicle. Some of these benefits are:

• Saving money

Fixing the oil consumption problem can help you save money on oil and gas.

Oil consumption means that your vehicle uses more oil than normal, which means you have to buy and add more oil frequently.

Oil consumption can also affect the fuel efficiency of your vehicle, which means you have to spend more money on gas.

By fixing the oil consumption problem, you can reduce the oil and gas consumption rate and save money in the long run.

• Improving performance

Fixing the oil consumption problem can help you improve the performance and power of your vehicle. Oil consumption can cause the engine to run poorly and lose power, which can affect the acceleration, speed, and handling of your vehicle.

Oil consumption can also cause the engine to overheat and seize up, which can result in costly repairs or replacement. By fixing the oil consumption problem, you can restore the engine’s optimal condition and performance, and enjoy a smoother and safer driving experience.

• Extending lifespan

Fixing the oil consumption problem can help you extend the lifespan and value of your vehicle. Oil consumption can cause the engine to wear out faster and damage the internal components, such as the piston rings, the cylinder walls, the spark plugs, and the gaskets.

This can reduce the lifespan and the reliability of your vehicle, and lower its resale value. By fixing the oil consumption problem, you can prevent further engine damage and prolong the lifespan and the value of your vehicle.

• Reducing emissions

Fixing the oil consumption problem can help you reduce the emissions and the environmental impact of your vehicle. Oil consumption can cause the engine to burn oil, which can produce smoke and carbon that pollute the air and contribute to global warming.

Oil consumption can also cause the engine to fail the emission tests, which can result in fines or penalties. By fixing the oil consumption problem, you can reduce the oil burning and the smoke production, and pass the emission tests with ease.

2013 Equinox Oil Consumption Recall

The 2013 Equinox oil consumption recalls refer to the actions taken by General Motors (GM) to address the excessive engine oil consumption problem that affects some 2013 Chevrolet Equinox vehicles equipped with 2.4-liter Ecotec engines.

The problem is caused by a defect in the piston rings and the cylinder walls of the engine, which allows the oil to leak into the combustion chamber and burn along with the fuel and air mixture. This can lead to increased oil consumption, reduced engine performance, increased emissions, and potential engine damage.

GM did not issue any official recall for this problem but instead offered a special coverage adjustment (SCA) to the owners and lessees of the affected vehicles. The SCA provides free diagnosis and repair of the oil consumption problem, as well as reimbursement for certain expenses related to the problem.

The SCA covers the vehicles for 7 years and 6 months or 120,000 miles, whichever occurs first, from the date the vehicle was originally placed in service, regardless of ownership.

The repair procedure involves replacing the defective piston assemblies with new ones that have improved design and quality. In addition, any engine components that require repair or replacement due to the oil consumption problem will also be covered by the SCA.

The repair procedure is complex and costly and requires professional skills and tools. Therefore, the owners and lessees of the affected vehicles are advised to take their vehicles to a certified mechanic or a GM dealer for repair.

The SCA for the 2013 Equinox oil consumption problem was issued in January 2020, following a class action lawsuit that was filed against GM in 2018. The lawsuit alleged that GM knew about the defect and failed to disclose it to the customers or to fix it promptly.

The lawsuit also claimed that the oil consumption problem caused various damages and losses to the customers, such as increased oil and gas costs, reduced vehicle value, and safety risks. The lawsuit sought compensation and injunctive relief for the customers.

The lawsuit was settled in November 2019, with the approval of a federal judge. The settlement agreement required GM to issue the SCA for the 2013 Equinox oil consumption problem, as well as to extend the SCA for the 2010-2012 Equinox models that were previously covered by a similar SCA.

The settlement agreement also allowed the customers who paid for repairs related to the oil consumption problem to submit claims for reimbursement, subject to certain conditions and limitations. The settlement agreement did not admit any liability or wrongdoing by GM but was made in the interest of customer satisfaction and to avoid further litigation.

The 2013 Equinox oil consumption recalls are the result of GM’s efforts to resolve the oil consumption problem that affects some 2013 Chevrolet Equinox vehicles with 2.4-liter Ecotec engines. The recalls provide free diagnosis and repair of the problem, as well as reimbursement for certain expenses related to the problem, for the eligible customers.

The recalls are also the outcome of a class action lawsuit that was filed against GM for the oil consumption problem, and that was settled in November 2019. The recalls aim to improve the performance, lifespan, and emission of the affected vehicles, and to satisfy the customers.

2013 Chevy Equinox Oil Consumption Fix Cost

The cost of fixing the oil consumption problem in a 2013 Chevy Equinox depends on several factors, such as the severity of the problem, the cause of the problem, the type of repair, and the location of the repair.

The average cost of repairing the oil consumption problem in a 2013 Chevy Equinox ranges from $105 to $4777, with an average of $336. However, these are only estimates and may vary depending on the specific situation and the service provider.

The most common and effective way to fix the oil consumption problem in a 2013 Chevy Equinox is to replace the defective piston assemblies with new ones that have improved design and quality. This is a complex and costly procedure that requires professional skills and tools. The cost of replacing the piston assemblies can range from $2000 to $4000, depending on the labor and the parts. In some cases, the entire engine may need to be replaced, which can cost even more.

However, before replacing the piston assemblies, it is advisable to check if some other possible causes or factors contribute to the oil consumption problem in a 2013 Chevy Equinox, such as using low-quality oil, driving under extreme conditions, having leaks in the gaskets, seals, or hoses, or having faulty or worn spark plugs.

These causes or factors can be fixed or prevented with less expensive and less invasive repairs or maintenance, such as changing the oil and the oil filter, driving moderately, inspecting and replacing the gaskets, seals, or hoses, or checking and replacing the spark plugs. The cost of these repairs or maintenance can range from $100 to $500, depending on the service and the parts.

Conclusion

The 2013 Chevy Equinox oil consumption problem is a serious issue that affects many owners of this model. 

The problem is caused by a defect in the piston rings and the cylinder walls of the engine, which allows the oil to leak into the combustion chamber and burn along with the fuel and air mixture. 

This can lead to increased oil consumption, reduced engine performance, increased emissions, and potential engine damage. 

To fix this problem, you need to replace the defective piston assemblies with new ones that have improved design and quality. 

This is a complex and costly procedure that requires professional skills and tools. 

You should take your vehicle to a certified mechanic or a GM dealer for this repair.

However, before you replace the piston assemblies, you should also check if some other possible causes or factors contribute to the oil consumption problem, such as using low-quality oil, driving under extreme conditions, having leaks in the gaskets, seals, or hoses, or having faulty or worn spark plugs. 

These causes or factors can be fixed or prevented with less expensive and less invasive repairs or maintenance. 

By fixing the oil consumption problem in your 2013 Chevy Equinox, you can save money, improve performance, extend lifespan, and reduce emissions. 

We hope this article has been helpful and informative for you. 

Thank you for reading.