Chevrolet Equinox Owners Manual

Vehicle Checks
Vehicle Care / Vehicle Checks

Doing Your Own Service Work

WARNING

It can be dangerous to work on your vehicle if you do not have the proper knowledge, service manual, tools, or parts. Always follow owner manual procedures and consult the service manual for your vehicle before doing any service work.

If doing some of your own service work, use the proper service manual. It tells you much more about how to service the vehicle than this manual can. To order the proper service manual.

This vehicle has an airbag system.

Before attempting to do your own service work.

Keep a record with all parts receipts and list the mileage and the date of any service work performed.

Notice: Even small amounts of contamination can cause damage to vehicle systems. Do not allow contaminants to contact the fluids, reservoir caps, or dipsticks.

Hood

To open the hood:

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. 1. Pull the release handle located below the instrument panel to the left of

1. Pull the release handle located below the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel.

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. 2. Move the secondary hood release lever to the right to release the striker.

2. Move the secondary hood release lever to the right to release the striker. The lever is near the middle of the hood.
3. Lift the hood.

To close the hood:

1. Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly.
2. Lower the hood 30 cm (12 in) above the vehicle and release it so it fully latches. Check to make sure the hood is closed and repeat the process if necessary.

Engine Compartment Overview

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. 2.4L L4 Engine

2.4L L4 Engine

1. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter .
2. Engine Cover.
3. Engine Oil Dipstick (Out of View).
4. Engine Oil Fill Cap.
5. Brake Fluid Reservoir.
6. Engine Compartment Fuse Block.
7. Remote Positive (+) Terminal.

See Jump Starting.
8. Remote Negative (−) Terminal.

See Jump Starting.
9. Battery (Out of View).
10. Engine Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap.
11. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir.

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. 3.6L V6 Engine

3.6L V6 Engine

1. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter.
2. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir (Under Engine Cover).
3. Engine Oil Fill Cap.
4. Engine Cover.
5. Engine Oil Dipstick (Out of View).
6. Brake Fluid Reservoir.
7. Engine Compartment Fuse Block.
8. Remote Positive (+) Terminal.

See Jump Starting .
9. Remote Negative (−) Terminal.

See Jump Starting.
10. Battery (Out of View).
11. Engine Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap.
12. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir.

Engine Cover

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. Engine Cover 3.6L V6

Engine Cover 3.6L V6

1. Oil Fill Cap
2. Engine Cover Bolt
3. Engine Cover

To remove:

1. Remove the oil fill cap (1).
2. Remove the engine cover bolt (2).
3. Raise the engine cover (3) to release from the retainers.
4. Lift and remove the engine cover.
5. Reverse Steps 1–4 to reinstall engine cover.

Engine Oil

To ensure proper engine performance and long life, careful attention must be paid to engine oil.

Following these simple, but important steps will help protect your investment:

• Always use engine oil approved to the proper specification and of the proper viscosity grade. See “Selecting the Right Engine Oil” in this section.
• Check the engine oil level regularly and maintain the proper oil level. See “Checking Engine Oil” and “When to Add Engine Oil” in this section.
• Change the engine oil at the appropriate time.
• Always dispose of engine oil properly. See “What to Do with Used Oil” in this section.

Checking Engine Oil

It is a good idea to check the engine oil level at each fuel fill. In order to get an accurate reading, the vehicle must be on level ground. The engine oil dipstick handle is a loop.

Obtaining an accurate oil level reading is essential:

1. If the engine has been running recently, turn off the engine and allow several minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil pan.

Checking the oil level too soon after engine shutoff will not provide a

WARNING

The engine oil dipstick handle may be hot; it could burn you.

Use a towel or glove to touch the dipstick handle.

2. Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way.

Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level.

When to Add Engine Oil

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. 2.4L L4 Engine

2.4L L4 Engine

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. 3.6L V6 Engine

3.6L V6 Engine

If the oil is below the cross-hatched area at the tip of the dipstick, add 1 L (1 qt) of the recommended oil and then recheck the level. See “Selecting the Right Engine Oil” in this section for an explanation of what kind of oil to use.

Notice: Do not add too much oil.

Oil levels above or below the acceptable operating range shown on the dipstick are harmful to the engine. If you find that you have an oil level above the operating range, i.e., the engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the cross-hatched area that shows the proper operating range, the engine could be damaged. You should drain out the excess oil or limit driving of the vehicle and seek a service professional to remove the excess amount of oil.

Add enough oil to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when through.

Selecting the Right Engine Oil

Selecting the right engine oil depends on both the proper oil specification and viscosity grade.

Specification

Use and ask for licensed engine oils with the dexos1® approved certification mark. Engine oils meeting the requirements for the vehicle should have the dexos1 approved certification mark. This certification mark indicates that the oil has been approved to the dexos1 specification.

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. Notice: Failure to use the recommended engine oil or equivalent can

Notice: Failure to use the recommended engine oil or equivalent can result in engine damage not covered by the vehicle warranty. Check with your dealer or service provider on whether the oil is approved to the dexos1 specification.

Viscosity Grade

SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity grade oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50.

Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below −29°C (−20°F), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, always select an oil of the correct specification. See “Specification” earlier in this section for more information.

Engine Oil Additives/Engine Oil Flushes

Do not add anything to the oil. The recommended oils with the dexos specification and displaying the dexos certification mark are all that is needed for good performance and engine protection.

Engine oil system flushes are not recommended and could cause engine damage not covered by the vehicle warranty.

What to Do with Used Oil

Used engine oil contains certain elements that can be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer. Do not let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly dispose of clothing or rags containing used engine oil. See the manufacturer's warnings about the use and disposal of oil products.

Used oil can be a threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all the oil from the filter before disposal. Never dispose of oil by putting it in the trash or pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil.

Engine Oil Life System

When to Change Engine Oil

This vehicle has a computer system that indicates when to change the engine oil and filter. This is based on a combination of factors which include engine revolutions, engine temperature, and miles driven.

Based on driving conditions, the mileage at which an oil change is indicated can vary considerably. For the oil life system to work properly, the system must be reset every time the oil is changed.

When the system has calculated that oil life has been diminished, it indicates that an oil change is necessary. A CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message comes on. Change the oil as soon as possible within the next 1 000 km (600 mi).

It is possible that, if driving under the best conditions, the oil life system might indicate that an oil change is not necessary for up to a year. The engine oil and filter must be changed at least once a year and, at this time, the system must be reset. Your dealer has trained service people who will perform this work and reset the system. It is also important to check the oil regularly over the course of an oil drain interval and keep it at the proper level.

If the system is ever reset accidentally, the oil must be changed at 5 000 km (3,000 mi) since the last oil change.

Remember to reset the oil life system whenever the oil is changed.

How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System

Reset the system whenever the engine oil is changed so that the system can calculate the next engine oil change. To reset the system:

1. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN, with the engine off.
2. Press the DIC MENU button to display the Vehicle Information menu.
3. Press either the up or down arrows to view REMAINING OIL LIFE.
4. Press the SET/CLR button until 100% is displayed.
5. Turn the key to LOCK/OFF.

Or:

1. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with the engine off.
2. Fully press and release the accelerator pedal three times within five seconds.

The system is reset when the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message goes off.

If the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message comes back on when the vehicle is started, the engine oil life system has not been reset. Repeat the procedure.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

How to Check Automatic Transmission Fluid

It is not necessary to check the transmission fluid level.

A transmission fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss. If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to your dealer and have it repaired as soon as possible.

There is a special procedure for checking and changing the transmission fluid. Because this procedure is difficult, this should be done at your dealer. Contact your dealer for additional information or the procedure can be found in the service manual.

Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

Inspect or replace the air cleaner/ filter at the scheduled maintenance intervals. If driving in dusty/dirty conditions, inspect the filter at each engine oil change.

How to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

To inspect the air cleaner/filter, remove the filter from the vehicle and lightly shake the filter to release loose dust and dirt. If the filter remains covered with dirt, a new filter is required. Never use compressed air to clean the filter.

To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter:

1. Open the hood.
2. Locate the air filter housing on the passenger side of the engine compartment.

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. 3. Remove the four air cleaner housing cover screws.

3. Remove the four air cleaner housing cover screws.
4. Pull straight up on the cover, and while holding the cover, remove the air cleaner filter.
5. Inspect or replace the air cleaner filter.

How to Reinstall Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

1. Install the air cleaner filter into the air cleaner housing. The outer air cleaner filter seal must be fitted properly in the air cleaner housing.
2. Align the air cleaner housing cover tabs to the air cleaner housing.
3. Install the air cleaner housing cover using the four screws.

WARNING

Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air; it helps to stop flames if the engine backfires. Use caution when working on the engine and do not drive with the air cleaner/filter off.

Notice: If the air cleaner/filter is off, dirt can easily get into the engine, which could damage it.

Always have the air cleaner/filter in place when you are driving.

Cooling System

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. 2.4L L4 Engine

2.4L L4 Engine

1. Engine Cooling Fan (Out of View)
2. Engine Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. 3.6L V6 Engine

3.6L V6 Engine

1. Engine Cooling Fans (Out of View)
2. Engine Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap

WARNING

An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can cause injury. Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from any underhood electric fan.

If the coolant inside the coolant surge tank is boiling, do not do anything else until it cools down.

The vehicle should be parked on a level surface.

The coolant level should be at the COLD FILL line. If it is not, the vehicle may have a leak at the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump, or somewhere else in the cooling system.

WARNING

Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Do not touch them. If you do, you can be burned.

Do not run the engine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine fire, and you could be burned. Get any leak fixed before you drive the vehicle.

If there seems to be no leak, with the engine on, check to see if the electric engine cooling fan is running. If the engine is overheating, the fan should be running. If it is not, the vehicle needs service. Turn off the engine.

Notice: Using coolant other than DEX-COOL® can cause premature engine, heater core, or radiator corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant could require changing sooner, at 50 000 km (30,000 mi) or 24 months, whichever occurs first. Any repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

Always use DEX-COOL (silicate-free) coolant in the vehicle.

Engine Coolant

The cooling system in the vehicle is filled with DEX-COOL® engine coolant. This coolant is designed to remain in the vehicle for 5 years or 240 000 km (150,000 mi), whichever occurs first.

The following explains the cooling system and how to check and add coolant when it is low.

What to Use

WARNING

Adding only plain water or some other liquid to the cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water and other liquids, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will.

The coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture.

With plain water or the wrong mixture, the engine could get too hot but you would not get the overheat warning. The engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/ 50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL coolant.

Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL coolant. If using this mixture, nothing else needs to be added.

This mixture:

• Gives freezing protection down to −37°C (−34°F), outside temperature.
• Gives boiling protection up to 129°C (265°F), engine temperature.
• Protects against rust and corrosion.
• Will not damage aluminum parts.

• Helps keep the proper engine temperature.

Notice: If an improper coolant mixture is used, the engine could overheat and be badly damaged.

The repair cost would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

Too much water in the mixture can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core, and other parts.

Never dispose of engine coolant by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, or into sewers, streams, or bodies of water. Have the coolant changed by an authorized service center, familiar with legal requirements regarding used coolant disposal. This will help protect the environment and your health.

Checking Coolant

The vehicle must be on a level surface when checking the coolant level.

Check to see if coolant is visible in the coolant surge tank. If the coolant inside the coolant surge tank is boiling, do not do anything else until it cools down. If coolant is visible but the coolant level is not at or above the COLD FILL line, add a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL coolant at the coolant surge tank, but be sure the cooling system is cool before this is done. The coolant surge tank is in the engine compartment on the driver side of the vehicle.

How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Surge Tank

Notice: This vehicle has a specific coolant fill procedure.

Failure to follow this procedure could cause the engine to overheat and be severely damaged.

If you have not found a problem yet, check to see if coolant is visible in the coolant surge tank. If coolant is visible but the coolant level is not at the COLD FILL line, add a 50/ 50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL coolant at the coolant surge tank, but be sure the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap, is cool before you do it.

WARNING

Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you turn the coolant surge tank pressure cap—even a little—they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap, is hot.

Wait for the cooling system and coolant surge tank pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the pressure cap.

WARNING

Adding only plain water or some other liquid to the cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water and other liquids, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. The coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture.

With plain water or the wrong mixture, the engine could get too hot but you would not get the overheat warning. The engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/ 50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL coolant.

WARNING

You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts.

Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine.

Notice: In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mixture.

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. 1. Remove the coolant surge tank pressure cap when the cooling system, including

1. Remove the coolant surge tank pressure cap when the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot.

Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise about one-quarter of a turn. If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. This will allow any pressure still left to be vented out the discharge hose.

2. Keep turning the pressure cap slowly, and remove it.

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. 3. Fill the coolant surge tank with the proper DEX-COOL coolant mixture, to the

3. Fill the coolant surge tank with the proper DEX-COOL coolant mixture, to the COLD FILL line.
4. With the coolant surge tank pressure cap off, start the engine and let it run until the upper radiator hose can be felt getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fan(s). By this time, the coolant level inside the coolant surge tank may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper DEX-COOL coolant mixture to the coolant surge tank until the level reaches the COLD FILL line.
5. Replace the pressure cap. Be sure the pressure cap is hand-tight.

Check the level in the coolant surge tank when the cooling system has cooled down. If the coolant is not at the proper level, repeat Steps 1–3 and reinstall the pressure cap. If the coolant still is not at the proper level when the system cools down again, see your dealer.

Engine Overheating

The vehicle has an indicator to warn of engine overheating. There is an engine coolant temperature warning light on the vehicle's instrument panel.

The decision may be made not to lift the hood when this warning appears, but instead get service help right away.

If the decision to lift the hood is made, make sure the vehicle is parked on a level surface.

Then check to see if the engine cooling fan(s) are running. If the engine is overheating, the fan(s) should be running. If they are not, do not continue to run the engine and have the vehicle serviced.

Notice: Engine damage from running the engine without coolant is not covered by the warranty.

If Steam is Coming from the Engine Compartment

WARNING

Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down.

Wait until there is no sign of steam or coolant before you open the hood.

If you keep driving when the engine is overheated, the liquids in it can catch fire. You or others could be badly burned. Stop the engine if it overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the engine is cool.

If No Steam is Coming from the Engine Compartment

If an engine overheat warning is displayed but no steam can be seen or heard, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when the vehicle:

• Climbs a long hill on a hot day.
• Stops after high-speed driving.
• Idles for long periods in traffic.
• Tows a trailer.

If the overheat warning is displayed with no sign of steam:

1. Turn the air conditioning off.
2. Turn the heater on to the highest temperature and to the highest fan speed. Open the windows as necessary.
3. In heavy traffic, let the engine idle in N (Neutral) while stopped.

If it is safe to do so, pull off the road, shift to P (Park) or N (Neutral) and let the engine idle.

If the temperature overheat gauge is no longer in the overheat zone or an overheat warning no longer displays, the vehicle can be driven.

Continue to drive the vehicle slowly for about 10 minutes. Keep a safe vehicle distance from the vehicle in front. If the warning does not come back on, continue to drive normally.

If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park the vehicle right away.

If there is no sign of steam, idle the engine for three minutes while parked. If the warning is still displayed, turn off the engine until it cools down.

Power Steering Fluid (2.4L L4 Engine)

The vehicle has electric power steering and does not use power steering fluid.

Power Steering Fluid (3.6L V6 Engine)

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. The power steering fluid reservoir is located toward the rear of the engine compartment

The power steering fluid reservoir is located toward the rear of the engine compartment on the passenger side of the vehicle.

When to Check Power Steering Fluid

The power steering fluid does not need to be checked unless there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise. Have the system inspected and repaired if there is a fluid loss.

How to Check Power Steering Fluid

To check the power steering fluid:

1. Turn the engine off and let it cool down.
2. Remove the engine cover. Refer to Engine Cover on page 10‑8.
3. Wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean.
4. Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag.
5. Replace the cap and completely tighten it.
6. Remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick.

The fluid level should be between MAX and MIN line at room temperature. If the fluid is on or below MIN line, add fluid.

What to Use

Notice: Use of the incorrect fluid may damage the vehicle and the damages may not be covered by the vehicle's warranty.

Washer Fluid

What to Use

Read the manufacturer's instructions before refilling the windshield washer fluid. If operating the vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing.

Adding Washer Fluid

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. Open the cap with the washer symbol on it and add washer fluid until full.

Open the cap with the washer symbol on it and add washer fluid until full.

Notice

. When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer instructions for adding water.
• Do not mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid.

Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage the washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system.
• Fill the washer fluid tank only three-quarters full when it is very cold. This allows for fluid expansion if freezing occurs, which could damage the tank if it is completely full.
• Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze) in the windshield washer. It can damage the windshield washer system and paint.

Brakes

This vehicle has disc brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed.

The sound can come and go or be heard all the time the vehicle is moving, except when applying the brake pedal firmly.

WARNING

The brake wear warning sound means that soon the brakes will not work well. That could lead to a crash. When the brake wear warning sound is heard, have the vehicle serviced.

Notice: Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads could result in costly brake repair.

Some driving conditions or climates can cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with the brakes.

Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation.

Brake linings should always be replaced as complete axle sets.

Brake Pedal Travel

See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign that brake service might be required.

Brake Adjustment

Every time the brakes are applied, with or without the vehicle moving, the brakes adjust for wear.

Replacing Brake System Parts

The braking system on a vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. The vehicle was designed and tested with top-quality brake parts. When parts of the braking system are replaced, be sure to get new, approved replacement parts.

If this is not done, the brakes might not work properly. For example, installing disc brake pads that are wrong for the vehicle, can change the balance between the front and rear brakes — for the worse. The braking performance expected can change in many other ways if the wrong replacement brake parts are installed.

Brake Fluid

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. The brake master cylinder reservoir is filled with DOT 3 brake fluid as indicated

The brake master cylinder reservoir is filled with DOT 3 brake fluid as indicated on the reservoir cap.

There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down:

• The brake fluid level goes down because of normal brake lining wear. When new linings are installed, the fluid level goes back up.
• A fluid leak in the brake hydraulic system can also cause a low fluid level. Have the brake hydraulic system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later the brakes will not work well.

Do not top off the brake fluid.

Adding fluid does not correct a leak.

If fluid is added when the linings are worn, there will be too much fluid when new brake linings are installed. Add or remove brake fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.

WARNING

If too much brake fluid is added, it can spill on the engine and burn, if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and the vehicle could be damaged.

Add brake fluid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.

When the brake fluid falls to a low level, the brake warning light comes on.

What to Add

Use only new DOT 3 brake fluid from a sealed container.

Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This helps keep dirt from entering the reservoir.

WARNING

With the wrong kind of fluid in the brake hydraulic system, the brakes might not work well. This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake fluid.

Notice

. Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake hydraulic system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in the brake hydraulic system can damage brake hydraulic system parts so badly that they will have to be replaced.

Do not let someone put in the wrong kind of fluid.
• If brake fluid is spilled on the vehicle's painted surfaces, the paint finish can be damaged. Be careful not to spill brake fluid on the vehicle. If you do, wash it off immediately.

Battery

Refer to the replacement number on the original battery label when a new battery is needed.

WARNING

Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

Vehicle Storage

WARNING

Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas that can explode.

You can be badly hurt if you are not careful.

Infrequent Usage: Remove the black, negative (−) cable from the battery to keep the battery from running down.

Extended Storage: Remove the black, negative (−) cable from the battery or use a battery trickle charger.

All-Wheel Drive

Transfer Case

Under normal driving conditions, transfer case fluid does not require changing or checking unless there is a fluid leak or unusual noise.

If required, have the transfer case serviced by your dealer.

Starter Switch Check

WARNING

When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured.

1. Before starting this check, be sure there is enough room around the vehicle.
2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake.

Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to turn off the engine immediately if it starts.
3. Try to start the engine in each gear. The vehicle should start only in P (Park) or N (Neutral).

If the vehicle starts in any other position, contact your dealer for service.

Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control Function Check

WARNING

When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured.

1. Before starting this check, be sure there is enough room around the vehicle. It should be parked on a level surface.
2. Firmly apply the parking brake.

Be ready to apply the regular brake immediately if the vehicle begins to move.
3. With the engine off, turn the ignition on, but do not start the engine. Without applying the regular brake, try to move the shift lever out of P (Park) with normal effort. If the shift lever moves out of P (Park), contact your dealer for service.

Ignition Transmission Lock Check

While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF in each shift lever position.

• The ignition should turn to LOCK/OFF only when the shift lever is in P (Park).
• The ignition key should come out only in LOCK/OFF.

Contact your dealer if service is required.

Park Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check

WARNING

When you are doing this check, the vehicle could begin to move.

You or others could be injured and property could be damaged.

Make sure there is room in front of the vehicle in case it begins to roll. Be ready to apply the regular brake at once should the vehicle begin to move.

Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake.

• To check the parking brake's holding ability: With the engine running and the transmission in N (Neutral), slowly remove foot pressure from the regular brake pedal. Do this until the vehicle is held by the parking brake only.
• To check the P (Park) mechanism's holding ability: With the engine running, shift to P (Park). Then release the parking brake followed by the regular brake.

Contact your dealer if service is required.

Wiper Blade Replacement

Windshield wiper blades should be inspected for wear and cracking.

Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways.

Notice: Allowing the wiper arm to touch the windshield when no wiper blade is installed could damage the windshield. Any damage that occurs would not be covered by your warranty. Do not allow the wiper arm to touch the windshield.

Front Wiper Blade Replacement

To replace the front wiper blades:

1. Lift the wiper arm from the windshield until no further movement is possible.

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. 2. Press the square button on the top side, at the end of the wiper arm, and

2. Press the square button on the top side, at the end of the wiper arm, and pull the wiper blade out of the end of the wiper arm.
3. Install the wiper blade connector by sliding into the end of the wiper arm until the square button on the wiper blade clicks into place with the wiper arm.
4. Place the wiper arm with the wiper blade in place back on the windshield.

Rear Wiper Blade Replacement

The rear wiper blade and wiper arm have a cover for protection. The cover must be removed before the wiper blade can be replaced.

To remove the cover:

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. 1. Slide a plastic tool under the cover and push upward to unsnap.

1. Slide a plastic tool under the cover and push upward to unsnap.
2. Slide the cover towards the wiper blade tip to unhook it from the blade assembly.
3. Remove the cover.
4. After wiper blade replacement, ensure that cover hook slides into the slot in the blade assembly.
5. Snap the cover down to secure.

To replace the wiper blade:

1. Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield.

Chevrolet Equinox: Vehicle Checks. 2. Push the release lever (2) to disengage the hook and push the wiper arm (1)

2. Push the release lever (2) to disengage the hook and push the wiper arm (1) out of the blade assembly (3).
3. Push the new blade assembly securely on the wiper arm until the release lever clicks into place.
4. Replace the wiper cover.


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