MyCarTSB

2019 Chevrolet Equinox Brakes Problems

58 owner-reported brakes complaints from NHTSA data

58
Complaints
1
Recalls
7
Crashes
1
Fires
Jan 2022Dec 2025
Date Range

Data sourced from NHTSA public database. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified mechanic.

Brakes Recalls (1)

RECALLCampaign #18V576000

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Equinox, Impala, Cruze, Volt and Bolt EV vehicles, GMC Terrain vehicles, Buick Lacrosse and Regal vehicles, Cadillac XTS and XTS Professional vehicles and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons may have an insufficient coating causing gas pockets to form, potentially reducing rear brake performance.

Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will bleed the vehicle's brake system, free of charge. The recall began October 11, 2018. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 18279.

Owner Complaints (58)

criticalSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Mar 2026

Your brakes stopped working while you were driving on the highway, requiring a tow to a repair shop. The mechanic found that your vacuum pump had failed and needed replacement. This is apparently a known issue affecting multiple Chevrolets. Fixing this will involve replacing the brake vacuum pump.

Parts you may need:

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NHTSA #: 11728311
criticalSERVICE BRAKES
CrashFiled: Feb 2026

While driving at 30-32 mph with normal following distance, your brakes failed to slow or stop the car when you pressed the pedal, even with both feet applied. This caused you to hit the vehicle in front of you, resulting in injuries to your wife and the other driver, and totaling both vehicles. Your insurance company is investigating the brake system, and you should follow up with GM customer service to document the failure.

NHTSA #: 11716995
criticalSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Dec 2025

Your brake lines may fail prematurely even with low mileage and no prior repair history. The stainless braided line from the master cylinder to the ABS module can rupture and expel all brake fluid, causing total brake failure, while other brake lines may simultaneously begin fraying and deteriorating from the inside out. This appears to be a manufacturing defect rather than damage from rubbing or external wear. Fixing this issue will require replacing the affected brake lines and refilling the brake fluid system.

NHTSA #: 11707269
criticalSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
CrashFiled: Dec 2025

Your brakes failed to respond when you pressed the pedal while driving at 25 MPH, even after pressing it a second time. Your car slowed but didn't stop, and you rear-ended the vehicle in front of you. The airbags deployed and you sustained minor injuries; your car was declared a total loss. The brake system may need inspection for hydraulic fluid loss, failed brake components, or issues matching a known recall.

NHTSA #: 11705394
criticalSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Nov 2025

Your brake system's vacuum pump failed, causing your power brakes to stop working. You'll notice a "Check System Brake Assist" warning on your dashboard, and stopping the car will require significantly more pedal pressure and longer distances. The repair will likely involve replacing the vacuum pump and inspecting the brake system for any related damage.

NHTSA #: 11697174
mediumSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Filed: Oct 2025

The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, there was an abnormal grinding sound coming from the rear brakes. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the rear brake pads and rotors needed to be replaced. The contact completed the work himself. The contact recently took the vehicle the vehicle in for service at a dealer and was informed that the rear brakes and calipers would need to be replaced soon. The contact stated that the pads and rotors had been replaced approximately one year ago, and the vehicle was not driven daily. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V576000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

NHTSA #: 11695880
mediumSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE
Filed: Oct 2025

The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving at a slow speed, the brake pedal was depressed, and the brake pedal was extremely hard and tight. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to stop the vehicle because the vehicle was not being driven at a high speed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the failure was diagnosed as CAM shaft failure, timing chain, and vacuum pump failure. The contact was informed that the CAM shaft, timing chain, and vacuum pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. In addition, the contact, who was an independent mechanic, stated that it was very important that the braking system operated independently. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under recall. The failure mileage was approximately 75,400.

NHTSA #: 11692061
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Aug 2025

Break assist break vacuum pump

NHTSA #: 11678702
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Aug 2025

Vehicle Information: 2019 Chevrolet Equinox VIN: [XXX] Mileage: [Insert your current mileage] Engine: 1.5L Turbo ⸻ Complaint Summary: Sudden and complete loss of brake assist while driving. Brake pedal became extremely hard to press, making it difficult to stop the vehicle safely. A warning message appeared on the dashboard stating “Brake Assist”. This happened without warning and made braking unpredictable and dangerous. If I had been driving downhill or in the mountains, I could have easily lost control or crashed. I was lucky to be on a relatively flat road when it happened. I inspected the vacuum hose and brake fluid level — both were normal. After researching, I discovered this is a known issue in 2019 Equinox models with the 1.5L turbo engine, related to vacuum pump failure or loss of vacuum supply to the brake booster. There are service bulletins and limited coverage programs (N192268490 and N182202780), but my VIN does not show an open recall. I believe this is a serious safety defect that could affect many vehicles not yet covered by the recall or service campaigns. GM needs to expand the recall and properly warn drivers before someone gets killed. Please investigate this problem and hold GM accountable for fixing this safety-critical issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA #: 11678573
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Jun 2025

I own a 2019 Chevy Equinox LT 1.5L and am experiencing the exact symptoms described in GM recall 18V576000. After 1–2 hours of driving, the rear brakes begin to drag, creating hesitation during takeoff. The issue resolves after the vehicle cools down. Both my mechanic and independent research confirm this is the same safety defect described in that recall, but my VIN is not included.

NHTSA #: 11668135
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Jun 2025

I was driving brake pedal went causing me to use emergency brake to stop. Took and got it diagnosed. The brake vacuum went out. The repair bill was $680 that have to pay tomorrow 6-19. I had someone in my car that I was transporting. This could end very card if I was an experienced CDL driver. My car 2019 Chevy Equinox only has 107,310 miles. I am so frustrated this is not on the recall list for the same problem other GM owners were having

NHTSA #: 11668012
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: May 2025

I was driving and all of a sudden my brake assist light and engine light come on and then when I tried to brake, the brake pedal was very hard to push and it was very hard to stop.

NHTSA #: 11659449
mediumSERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
Filed: Mar 2025

Poor quality Vacuum Pump failed, resulting in debris in crack shaft assembly and preventing brake functionality. Check engine displays and error message stated "Service Brake Assist" which does not indicate a vacuum pump failure, which is misleading in troubleshooting issue. Hard brake pedal is a symptom, which would lead a repair facility or consumer to replace Brake Power Booster, which does not resolve issue, but will temporarily resolve brake pedal symptom, leading to further damage to crank shaft.

NHTSA #: 11650054
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Jan 2025

I was driving on the freeway way and during rush hour at 65 miles per hour the brakes completely stoppped working the peddle wouldn’t press I had to swerve to avoid an accident and slowly exited the freeway when it was safe to coast over from the number one lane to the exit. The vacuum pump failed which exploded inside my engine which in turn makes the engine stop functioning and destroys the whole engine with out warning

NHTSA #: 11638398
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Dec 2024

The vehicle vacuum system and the power brake booster has caused the vehicle brake to fail in motion the second incident was almost fatal

NHTSA #: 11630435
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Nov 2024

The brake vacuum booster failed, causing the brake assist system to malfunction. Yes, the component is available for inspection upon request. While merging onto the highway, the brake pedal became extremely tight, making it difficult to slow down or stop, creating a hazardous situation. Yes, the issue was confirmed by a service center, and the brake vacuum booster is being repaired. No, the vehicle and component have not been inspected by these parties, but the service center is addressing the repair. Yes, a “Service Brake Assist” warning appeared immediately before the brake pedal tightened. Afterward, the check engine light came on.

NHTSA #: 11628032
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
CrashFiled: Nov 2024

I was driving down a driveway with a slight incline. I pressed the brakes and they were very hard to press and vehicle would not stop until I collided with a wall. This is the fourth time that this has happened in the last two years. Each time it has been the brake booster vacuum pump which my mechanics have said is a common problem with this vehicle. One of the previous times my daughter was driving on the highway when the brakes failed and she ended up in a ditch off the shoulder. This is very dangerous and someone is going to get killed if it hasn't happened already.

NHTSA #: 11623959
mediumSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE
Filed: Sep 2024

The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the engine made an abnormal ticking sound. Additionally, the contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal felt firm and failed to respond as needed. The contact stated that upon depressing the brake pedal two feet, the brake pedal travelled down as needed, causing the braking distance to be extended by 222 ft. approximately. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the vacuum pump had seized and shredded to parts inside the engine. The mechanic determined that the vacuum pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that two unknown dealers and the manufacturer were notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not under recall. The failure mileage was approximately 74,000.

NHTSA #: 11614800
mediumSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Filed: Aug 2024

Brakes locked up after turning off of an exit leading to an intersection and incident that could have killed myself and those around me. AAA towed my car to their garage and said it fits a safety recall according to the year make and model and I needed to take it to Chevy because the Brake Vacuum Pump has disintegrated despite my brakes, rotors, brake pads, fluids, etc all in brand new and phenomenal shape as well as a well maintenance’d vehicle which is proof this is a manufacturer issue, not my doing, nor is it “wear and tear”. The vehicle also smelled like fire which is another reason management at AAA and other local garages feel this is a safety issue beyond what they feel comfortable with. Chevy said that although they fixed many of my make and model for this same very DANGEROUS issue, nothing can be done because it doesn’t fit the vin. AAA advised me to reach out again explaining this is a danger on the road and needs fixed properly. Other garages will not feel comfortable fixing this issue knowing this recall by GM lists public litigation’s totaling millions of dollars worth of lawsuits for the SAME EXACT problem. I would appreciate urgent assistance on getting this extremely dangerous recall taken care of.

NHTSA #: 11606684
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Aug 2024

Engine light came on. Said (reduced engine pressure). Started jerking then breaks went out.

NHTSA #: 11606366
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Jul 2024

I was traveling at expressway speeds (70 mph) when traffic in front of me hit the brakes quickly to avoid an object in the road. At this time, I hit my brakes relatively hard and fast in what I would describe as a panic brake. I avoided incident here. About a mile further up the road, traffic in front of me hit the brakes once again. At this time, I also hit my brakes, but I could not. My brake pedal was hard as a rock, and it would push down only about 2 or 3 inches with little to no effect. I was afraid I might break the pedal arm. I was able to maintain my lane until about 40 mph at which time I was forced to hit the shoulder to avoid colliding with the cars in front of me which were now stopped. I pressed the brake pedal hard and coasted along the shoulder of the expressway for about 40 or 50 yards, rolling past the stopped traffic. A few minutes after my car came to a complete stop, the information panel on my dashboard read "service brake assist". My car was towed to a GM dealership local to where I came to a stop. The documentation from the dealership, as well as what I was verbally told, indicates that there was an internal failure of the vacuum pump. According to the service manager, there was nothing I could have done to prevent this. Obviously, I was extremely lucky. If this would have happened in two-lane city traffic, or approaching a stop light I would have been forced to veer into oncoming traffic or simply barrel into those in front of me. I know this, because for the last month, as I'm driving, I constantly analyze what would happen if my brakes were to go out like that at various points along my drive. Often times, my only option would be to brace for a major accident or land my car in the front yard of a business. This catastrophic failure could have easily killed me, and/or other drivers on the road. Other people will not be so lucky, and I know this. For that reason, it's time for NHTSA to finally take action on this matter.

NHTSA #: 11604348
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Jul 2024

I was driving on the highway in traffic when the brake pedal became hard as a rock I was unable to stop causing a major safety concern for myself and baby. Turns out the vacuum pump was faulty causing my brakes to fail.

NHTSA #: 11604145
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Jun 2024

I have 2019 chevy equinox I purchase the car last year with 61 miles. On March 12, 2024 I was 5 minutes away from home after driving an hour from work, try to stop at the stop sign the car didn't stop I tried several time to stop finally put it in neutral for the car to slow down to be able to pull over to stop thank God I wasn't hurt. After taking it to the dealership to get look at now the telling me my camshaft broke to pieces which will cost with the vacuum booster $24000 with only 70 miles.

NHTSA #: 11591875
mediumSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE
Filed: May 2024

The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH, the "Service Brake Assist" message briefly flashed on the instrument panel. The vehicle then independently downshifted and decelerated to 30 MPH, with the brake pedal depressed to the floorboard. The contact was unable to stop the vehicle but was able to coast the vehicle to an independent mechanic. The contact was able to turn off the vehicle after the failure; however, the mechanic was unable to diagnose the vehicle. The vehicle was then towed to a dealer where a mechanic informed the contact that the vacuum pump had failed and sent debris through the camshaft. The contact was informed that the vacuum pump, timing chain, cam shaft, and pistons all needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was given a reference number. The vehicle was not repaired and remained in the possession of the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

NHTSA #: 11590609
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: May 2024

Our 2019 Chevrolet Equinox had a sudden Brake Vacuum Pump failure causing loss of braking power by about 80%. The only reason we did not have an accident is it was early morning and there was no traffic when we exited the highway. I was not happy to realize that GM has no recall on this. They apparently knew this was a problem and in more recent years have changed the design. The other flaw is this pump is attached to the wall of the engine and shrapnel can fall into the engine compartment and that debris could lead to total engine failure if it travels to the combustion area. This is not only dangerous but financially ruining.

NHTSA #: 11589633
mediumSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE
Filed: Apr 2024

The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to slow the vehicle, she became aware that the brake pedal required excessive effort to bring the vehicle to a complete stop. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The ABS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who was unable to duplicate the failure. Later, the contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle suddenly lost motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the vacuum pump, resulting in damage to the timing chain. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 130,000.

NHTSA #: 11584927
mediumSERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Filed: Apr 2024

Mechanic said it is this exactly like the other cars but yet my cars vin does not show recall for this [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA #: 11581762
mediumSERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Filed: Mar 2024

While driving my 2019 Chevy Equinox it was acting to me to have a flat tire shaking weirdly in what felt like the front right tire. I was going around 72 mph down the freeway slowed to exit to the nearest station no issues there my speed was around 37 mph exiting off the freeway and SUDDENLY THE BREAK PEDAL WAS TO HARD TO PRESS I FOUND MYSELF WITH NO BREAKS the break pedal was EXTENDED OR? It wouldn’t press down at all and although I tried to pump them, I didn’t want to break anything and it felt like if I pushed down it would break something! So I wheeled it into the gas station and put it in park to stop. I called right away to the dealership I bought it at and had it towed from the station! I was lucky! I KNOW I WAS LUCKY! I MIGHT NOT HAVE BEEN!! This came without warning other than thinking I had a flat from the shaking! There was no light or other symptoms to alert me! IMAGINE SUDDENLY THE CAR IS SHAKING AND YOU HAVE NO BREAKS!?! THE CAUSE I WAS TOLD IS A FAULTY BOOSTER! IF YOU CANT GUARANTEE THE BREAKS WHY SELL THE CAR! ITS A VITAL ASPECT OF SAFETY! NOW IM TERRIFIED! THIS IS NOT OKAY! ALL I GET IS EXCUSES AND RUNAROUNDS ABOUT IT! BE AWARE THESE CARS HAVE ISSUES! HOW CAN A CONSUMER FEEL SAFE DRIVING A VEHICLE NOT KNOWING IF THE BREAKS WILL WORK OR NOT?! The shaking was my warning I say looking back but NOT AN ACCEPTABLE ONE! I think it’s what SAVED MY LIFE AND THOSE OF MY CHILDREN! Only the shaking!!!!!!!!!!!!! NOT OKAY GMC NOT AT ALL!!!!!

NHTSA #: 11577542
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Mar 2024

Driving 70mph on the interstate with moderate traffic. Came up on a slow down and tried to brake but my brake pedal would not move. It took both feet pushing as hard as I could to stop my car. Luckily I didn't hit anyone. Had to trailer the car home. Had the code read at O'Reilly auto parts and it is the failure of the brake booster vacuum pump. My car has a little less than 70,000 miles on it. There were no warning lights, NO NOTHING up to this point. Luckily I leave plenty of room between me and other cars or this could have been a really bad turnout.

NHTSA #: 11577697
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Feb 2024

The vacuum pump exploded and caused issues with the cam.

NHTSA #: 11573048
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Feb 2024

Vacuum pump failed at 39,000 miles causing little to no brake boost.

NHTSA #: 11571664
mediumSERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
Filed: Feb 2024

The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake assists, and the check engine warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed oil valve. The vehicle was repaired. The contact was informed that when the check engine warning light illuminated, other warning lights would sometimes become illuminate. The contact stated that a day later, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brakes were inoperable. The contact depressed the brake pedal and the contact noticed that the brake pedal was difficult to depress. The brake assists warning light illuminated and then disappeared. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 122,000.

NHTSA #: 11570811
mediumSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Filed: Feb 2024

The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving 50 MPH, upon attempting to bring the vehicle to a complete stop, the brake pedal was firm, requiring excessive force to depress. The service brake warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 53,000.

NHTSA #: 11570513
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Jan 2024

Vacuum pump failure resulted in greatly reduced braking ability

NHTSA #: 11568788
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Jan 2024

Failure of Brake Vacuum Pump. Oil intake screen of brake vacuum pump became clogged. (Have been diligent in regular oil changes) clogged intake caused pump to not receive lubrication, which resulting in it seizing. Pump is mechanically driven by exhaust cam shaft. Failure caused brakes to become almost impossible to engage. Even worse. The metal parts that were connected to the cam shaft were shattered, and the pieces ended up directly in the crankcase. This seems like a dangerous and potentially very expensive design flaw Pieces in picture had to be removed from crankcase..

NHTSA #: 11566174
mediumSERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
Filed: Dec 2023

I was at a stop light, the light turned green and I proceeded to lift my foot off of the break giving the vehicle a moment to autostart, I pressed the accelerator, and the car started to make a sputtering sound and tremble terribly. The vehicle's engine shut down in the middle of traffic, no warning lights appeared on my dash board. The power of the vehicle was still on. I placed the car in park, then I turned the power off. I tried to restart the vehicle this time the vehicle continued to shake and sputter but it did not move when I placed the gear in Drive. I had to be pushed put of the road by the Police and then towed to the dealer. The service engineer at the Chevy Dealership was able to start the engine and take it for a test drive, the vehicle also shut done on him but also left him with no ability to use the breaks. He was unable to stop. Thankfully no one was in front of him or behind him he was able to have the vehicle towed back to the service bay. I was told that the break vacuum pump disintegrated and went into the engine cam shaft. That caused the engine to completely shut down. I believe this is a safety issue as no sensor or engine codes ever displayed and the dealership took 2weeks to diagnose what was wrong because they were not getting any codes displayed on their diagnostic equipment. There was no way for me to know this break vacuum pump was failing to be able to proactively replace it to prevent this serious malfunction from occurring. I could have been seriously injured and cause a horrible accident as I was headed to the highway that morning. I would like to be contacted in regard to this.

NHTSA #: 11561777
mediumSERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
Filed: Dec 2023

2019 Equinox LT. 1.5 litre Vacuum pump clogged and exploded internally. Almost killed my wife and I when brakes failed. There appears to be TSB’s dating as far back as 2015. Chevy has been aware of this issue yet continued to produce vehicles with this defective and dangerous design. It sounds as if piston rings are prem The pump connects to and is powered by intake cam. Dumb. Micheal Bates dealership say I’m responsible for the parts and repairs, because is no warranty, which are about the car used repairs, all internal damage to engine.

NHTSA #: 11559288
mediumSERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
Filed: Nov 2023

The vacuum pump failed, which left me without power brakes while slowing down on an interstate exit ramp. There were no warnings or indications of failure in advance. The brakes were fine as I got on the interstate, then I became aware of the problem as I exited about 30 minutes later. I nearly rear-ended the car in front of me as we approached the stoplight. Without power brakes, much more force than usual was necessary to come to a stop safely. This is a very dangerous situation as elderly or physically disabled drivers may find it very challenging to apply enough force to come to a stop, especially when slowing down from 70+ MPH interstate speeds. Metal pieces broke off from the vacuum pump and caused damage to the cam shaft. While reviewing some YouTube videos on the topic, I discovered I'm not the only Equinox owner to experience this type of failure around 5x,xxx to 6x,xxx miles for the 2019 or similar model years. Here is the link to one representative video, and the comments indicate there are others who have experienced something similar... 2018 Chevy Equinox Vacuum Pump Catostrophic Failure! [XXX] Here's another: 2020 chevy equinox brake pedal really hard or no brakes fix [XXX] --F One more example: 2018 -2019 and up chevy equinox brake pedal Hard easy fix [XXX] Unfortunately, my vehicle was subsequently totaled in an unrelated accident, so it is unavailable for inspection. I believe public safety is at risk, however, so I have decided to submit this report anyway. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA #: 11555647
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Sep 2023

While driving from a short trip when we got back home we stopped to get something to eat and when backing out of our parking space I put on the brakes but the peddle was really hard and it was very hard to stop. I went the next day to a parts store and used their scanner and came up with code for brake assist vacuum pump. I had a very hard time finding a replacement and it had to come from Kansas city. I replaced it myself and had problems with it too. The original one the drive connector disintegrated where it connects to the cam shaft. The replacement one went on fine but oil ran from it due to the outer faceplate being warped. Every part store in town says they can't get it.

NHTSA #: 11546208
mediumSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS
CrashFiled: Sep 2023

The contact owned a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving at 60 MPH, he depressed the brake pedal however, the brakes were inoperable. The contact stated that the vehicle crashed into the rear of a truck, striking the truck three times before coming to a stop. The contact stated that the air bags failed to deploy. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot. The contact stated that a Police report was filed. The contact stated that the vehicle was deemed a total loss. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 13,150.

NHTSA #: 11542643
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Crash / FireFiled: Aug 2023

The contact owned a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving 55 mph, she began to smell a burnt odor inside the vehicle. The contact saw white smoke entering from the windshield defroster and decided to continue driving to her destination. The contact stated the check engine warning light was illuminated and black smoke began to enter the windshield defroster. The contact depressed the brake pedal but failed to stop the vehicle and caused her to crash into a guard rail on the front driver side. No air bags deployed. The contact was not able to open the front driver side door due to being blocked by the guard rail. The contact climbed into the back of the vehicle and exited the rear driver side door, while the flames were inside the front of the vehicle. The fire department extinguished the fire. A fire report was not filed. The police report was filed. The contact did not sustain any injuries but sought medical attention the following day. The vehicle was not drivable. The insurance company deemed the vehicle to be a total loss. The vehicle was towed to the towing lot. The vehicle was not diagnosed. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 25,000.

NHTSA #: 11540279
mediumSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Filed: Aug 2023

The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while her daughter was attempting to drive from a complete stop, she depressed the brake pedal, but the brake pedal was firm. The contact stated that her daughter stood on the brake pedal and the brake responded as needed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that her daughter parked the vehicle because it was unsafe to drive the vehicle. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA #: 11536032
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
CrashFiled: Jul 2023

I was approaching and intersection with a red light and I put my foot on the brakes. The car slowed down but then bucked forward three time until I hit the vehicle in front of me. Been driving for 44 years and never experienced anything like it.

NHTSA #: 11530886
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Jun 2023

I was driving on a main interstate and went to take an off-ramp, I tried to use my brakes to slow down but the peddle was rock hard and couldn’t brake at all.

NHTSA #: 11525195
mediumSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Filed: Jan 2023

The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH and depressing the brake pedal, the cruise control failed to immediately deactivate. Additionally, the brake pedal was very hard while being depressed. The contact stated that a message to repair brake assist was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the brake booster was faulty. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The local dealer was contacted and notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not yet notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 79,000.

NHTSA #: 11502742
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Dec 2022

I would like to bring to your attention the maintenance issue I experienced as it could have been catastrophic. On December 15, 2022 I was driving home from work in Dallas. I was going about 40 mph when the vehicle in front of me started to slow down, so I was going to as well. However, when I tried to, my brake pedal wouldn’t move. I tried again and still nothing. Now my engine light comes on and a “service brake assist” warning is popping up on my dash. I took my foot off the gas to slow down in time and was able to pull to the side of the road. There were NO warnings that this was coming! Please reference this link for other examples of this issue.... https://www.carproblemzoo.com/chevrolet/equinox/service-brakes-problems.php

NHTSA #: 11498505
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
CrashFiled: Sep 2022

I was driving exiting a school zone going about 35 mph. As I was coming up on a stop sign my brakes went completely out on my 2019 Chevy Equinox, and to avoid hitting kids walking across the sidewalk I ran into a cement wall to stop my car this morning on 9/21. I had it diagnosed twice and both vendors said it was the Vacuum pump brake and they have been seeing many of these cases. I checked the recall and there isn’t one but over 200+ reviews with this exact issue! This is a huge safety issue! People could of been severely hurt today. I called the dealership and they said I need to not get it fixed and wait to file a claim and call product quality claim.

NHTSA #: 11485733
mediumSERVICE BRAKES,LANE DEPARTURE,BACK OVER PREVENTION
Filed: Jun 2022

I was on interstate 85 going 70 miles an hour when I got on the interstate the brakes were working perfect got to go on 70 miles an hour and traffic started stopping when I hit the brakes it was so stiff that I couldn’t apply it Ammo divert to the emergency Lane and pushed with all my mic and finally got it to stop if my wife would’ve been driving it which is her car she would’ve been severely hurt probably

NHTSA #: 11470913
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Jun 2022

After purchasing the vehicle in April 2021, 3 months later upon traveling home and entering an exit ramp the brakes completely locked while going 35-45mph into ongoing traffic downhill and would not allow me to press down on them so that I could come to a stop. I press the emergency brake and that did nothing. I had to glide through traffic into a gas station parking lot almost slamming into a gas pump. The sewer dip allowed the vehicle to slow up and come to halt blocking the traffic. This happened after midnight so I took it to the dealership in which i purchased. No lights appeared on the dash. They advised me the brake booster pressure sensor, brake booster vacuum hose and then after doing so they said non of it fixed the issue, I would need a new brake booster. All totaling over $2000 for a vehicle I had less than 6 months. Shortly after the month following July or August, stalled and the push to start button wouldn’t activate. I waited a few moments and then it turned on, with the engine light lit. I took it directly to dealerships service department and they had it a month, they eventually said it was the Oxygen Sensor and it needed to be replaced. I reached out to GM about all of the issues. They stated there were recalls but not for my VIN. CRAZY Now less than a month, a slight fender bender, another vehicle crossed into my lane, the sensors did not initiate, I had to swerve to dodge from causing any major damage and avoid on coming traffic. My vehicle sustained minor scratches on the front passenger side. Initially 30 minutes after it was running fine. Then the light sensors on the mirrors both sides remained on. No engine lights, no warnings. I’m traveling down the 5 lane Highway @75mph and the vehicle just shuts completely off. I had to get across traffic and avoid causing an accident. The vehicle would not start. Got it towed back into town. Back to the dealership and was advised I needed a new engine! Now I’m without a vehicle.

NHTSA #: 11470412
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Mar 2022

While my wife and I are traveling on the highway out of town going 72 mph there was traffic and she began to press the brake peddle but car didn't want to stop. She had to push all body weight on the brakes and the brakes seem like it's hesitation and vibration but eventually stopped. This is very dangerous and brake service light came on. I pull off the exit and check fluids and brakes and all looks normal as I know some about cars. I called to get it checked today and lady said to bring it in right away as they are aware of this common issue with these equinox. She say either canister or pump failure which I researched and have many people who have complained but GM has changed 2018 certain models but failed this model year also and didn't fix the design for this model year of 2019 D2. Need this investigation to continue and I will begin petition for class action suit against GM which they have been notorious for law suits. Please help!!!

NHTSA #: 11457224
mediumSERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Filed: Jan 2022

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? On at least 4 occasions, while using the adaptive cruise control, the brakes are suddenly applied hard when no vehicles are anywhere near close enough to trigger an emergency braking situation. I have to manually step on the gas pedal to have the car stop the automatic braking. We can make the vehicle available upon request. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? This incident is startling when it occurs and can cause an accident if a vehicle happens to be too close behind our vehicle. We are reluctant to use the adaptive cruise control as a result of these incidents. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? The problem has not been reproduced or confirmed by the dealer or service center. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No component has been inspected as a result of these incidents. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? There are no warning lights or messages that appear before, during or after the incident. The incidents occur suddenly and with no warning.

NHTSA #: 11447008
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Nov 2021

While safely driving under normal conditions, I attempted to slow my vehicle down while approaching a vehicle that was making a right turn into a parking lot. Upon trying to apply the brakes, I was met with resistance (Hard brake pedal) which prevented my vehicle from properly slowing down. This was caused by a failed/malfunctioning brake booster/vacuum pump. Since I was driving at a safe distance, I managed to barely avoid colliding with the rear of the car making the turn, however, that miss was extremely narrow. My vehicle barely slowed down when the brakes were applied which, had I been on the interstate or traveling at a higher rate of speed, would have more than likely resulted in a collision. This DEFINITELY puts myself, my wife, and our 2 children's safety at risk. Once I successfully parked the vehicle, a "Service Brake Assist" warning messaged appeared for the 1st time. I began researching/attempting to diagnose the issue. During this time I came across several articles detailing a recall issued by GM describing the exact same issue with the brake booster/pump, ironically however, it only covered vehicle produced through 2018. I then contacted GM customer service to alert the manufacturer and see how they would rectify the situation. I was informed that my vehicle had no open recalls and was out of warranty & there was nothing they could do for me.(handwritten call log can be provided upon request) When I contacted the dealership, they informed me they were unable to see the vehicle until the 1st week in Dec. I was left to take it to my local mechanic who, upon his diagnosis, informed me that it was the vacuum pump that had failed. As previously stated, there were no warnings prior to the failure. The "Service Brake Assist" appeared AFTER I managed to safely get my vehicle to a parking spot.

NHTSA #: 11441371
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Oct 2021

While exiting the highway I went to put on my brakes and there were no power brakes. It pedal was stiff and I had to push extremely hard to stop and it took a long time to do so. The brake assist light come on as well. I had no prior warning, noise or any reason to believe that my brakes wouldn’t work. We checked the pads, rotors and brake lines and they were all fine so that’s not the issue. It could have been catastrophic if I had been on the highway still when this happened.

NHTSA #: 11436164
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Sep 2021

While driving on the freeway, the brakes became suddenly stiff and I was unable to stop the vehicle immediately for oncoming traffic. I had to steer away from the road onto the emergency lane and apply the brakes really hard to stop the car. There were no warning messages of any sorts and while trying to stop and start the car several times, then the service brake assist warning with the check engine light came up. I have to take the vehicle for inspection to the checy dealer to know more detailed cause of the issue. I had my wife, a 4 year old and a 4 month old in the car when this happened.

NHTSA #: 11432705
mediumSERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Filed: Aug 2021

Have been stranded 4 times this summer. When car is parked it has locked in parking and will not shift out of park. Even though the parking brake is released, the car will not shift. After leaving it sitting several hours or overnight, it will start and shift again.

NHTSA #: 11429202
mediumSERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
Filed: Mar 2020

I WAS DRIVING ABOUT 45 MPH AND I HEARD A NOISE. ENGINE SAID SPEED REDUCE. WHEN I WENT TO BRAKE THE CAR HARD NO POWER BRAKE AND WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO STOP. IT CAN NOT BE DRIVE BECAUSE I HAVE NO BRAKES

NHTSA #: 11318159
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Jan 2020

WHEN REAR E- BRAKES ARE WET THEY LOCK UP AND MAKE A LOUD SOUND. THIS HAPPENS AFTER A HARD RAIN OR IF YOU GO THRU THE CAR WASH WITH THE UNDER CARRIAGE OPTION AND RELEASE THE E-BRAKE AFTER PARKING.

NHTSA #: 11301236
mediumSERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Sep 2019

WHILE DRIVING ALONG WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL SET AT 70 MI/HR ON A CLEAR DAY WITH NO OTHER CARS WITHIN 500 FT., EXCEPT FOR ONE ON THE INSIDE LANE BEHIND US, THE BRAKES SUDDENLY CAME ON HARD AND ONLY RELEASED AFTER IT SLOWED THE CAR DOWN TO 60 MI/HR. THE RED LED'S DID NOT COME ON AND THE DRIVER'S SEAT DID NOT VIBRATE. THE SERVICE ADVISOR I SPOKE WITH SAID HE DROVE A 2019 EQUINOX TO OMAHA AND HAD THE SAME THING HAPPEN. HE THOUGHT I MAY HAVE HIT A BUG THAT CAUSED IT, BUT THE CAMERA LENS WAS CLEAR. I WAS TRAVELING STRAIGHT ON HIGHWAY #63 SOUTH OF ROCHESTER, MN. WHEN IT HAPPENED.

NHTSA #: 11253259

Other 2019 Chevrolet Equinox Issues