So I bought a used 2005 Equinox with 136k miles. 1 I've had cold start issues repeatedly a thumping noise in the rear (EVAP vent solenoid issues) still remains unresolved, and dozens of other mechanical issues to include; speed sensors failure/replace hub assemblies, 3 window motors, body control module reprogramming, re-calibrate electric steering, rear windshield wiper motor, temperature sensor, TWO alternators, failed throttle body, reprogrammed PCM and secured inlet pipe, transmission replaced and the rear suspension will not stay aligned, therefore wearing my tires out and significantly lowering my mpg's. My heat stopped working twice, and the solution was adding coolant. And on more than one occasion, my A/C has stopped cooling or cools intermittently and on two occasions when I turned it on my A/C it spits ice chips and white 'fog' at me.

I've had a water noise coming from my dash, an odd smell when using the air, A/C and heat (even after changing filters), for over TWO years. They keep topping my coolant off tell me it's a known issue with no resolve, just like the thumping noise.

My 2005 Chevrolet Equinox over-heated. I take it into a mechanic and I'm told it's a sticking thermostat, which they replace $360 and tell me it will correct the water noise. Within one month I had to replace the water pump $400. Then the hose to my radiator blows and leaves me stranded...had to have it towed to a mechanic $250. Then the water noises started....then again the thermostat needs to be replaced. I know I bought this car with high miles...but really???

I have a mechanic investigate further to find that there is air getting into the Heater Core and possibly leaking coolant into my Cylinder Head & Gaskets, which over time caused the thermostat to stick. So all this time I've been complaining of water noises in my dash the GM Bulletin's were pointing mechanics in the wrong direction and now I'm on the hook for a $1600 repair if it's only warped the Gaskets, but $3500 if it's also damaged the Head. Which is somehow related to the cold start and misfire issues?!?!

Buyer Beware...

I started noticing that my car would start to overheat. I checked the antifreeze level and it was low, so I added more. Two months later it started to overheat again. I checked the antifreeze level again and it was almost gone. Each time I added antifreeze it solved the problem for two or three months. When I finally did bring it to a mechanic, they found that a head gasket and the intake manifold were both cracked and that hoses were eroding from the DexCoolant. They suggested that I get a new car because the cost of repairs were upwards of $2000. I read that this is an ongoing problem in many Chevrolet models. I can't believe that this has not been recalled! The courts need to take action. This problem is a safety matter!!!

As my husband was replacing a headlight for me, he noticed a brownish color on the inside of the plastic coolant reservoir. I took it over to an Authorized GM dealer (where I bought it) to have them check it out and get my oil changed. The next thing I know the bill is $1500.00. Apparently ALL the hoses that are associated with the cooling system are deteriorating and need to be replaced. Of course, they didn't have them all in stock and needed to be ordered. They were nice enough to get me a loaner car for free but that just makes me think they know there is a problem with this coolant. I have asked them to keep the hoses so I can see them. Will pick up my vehicle in a few days.