Excessive Engine Oil Consumption – 2011 Chevrolet Equinox & GMC Terrain

NHTSA ID Number: 10118905

Manufacturer Communication Number: GCUS-9-4004

 

Summary

15285D – Special Coverage. Some vehicles, equipped with a 2.4L engine, may exhibit excessive engine oil consumption (less than 2,000 miles per quart of engine oil), due to piston ring wear. If this condition is present, the oil can light may illuminate on the instrument panel or the following message may appear in the Driver Information Center: “Oil Pressure Low – Stop Engine”. If this condition occurs in the stated terms, dealers will replace pistons and piston rings.

 

Parts

Piston Kit119303450

Last update on 2026-06-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

Gasket Kit, Cylinder Head112637166

Last update on 2026-06-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

Gasket Kit, Camshaft Cover112609291
GM Gasket Kit - 12609291
  • Equinox, Terrain. Captiva Sport. Solstice. LaCrosse. Malibu. Impala. Cobalt. Verano. Regal. HHR. Sky. 2.4L. 2.0L turbocharged.

Last update on 2026-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

Seal, Chain Package, Timing112635447

No products found.

Chain Assembly, W/Pmp And Balr Shf112635427
GM Genuine Parts 12635427 Water Pump and Balance Shaft Chain
  • Some GM Genuine Parts may have formerly appeared as ACDelco GM Original Equipment (OE)
  • GM Engineers design and validate OE parts specifically for your ChevroleteBay logo, BuickeBay logo, GMC, or CadillaceBay logo vehicle
  • Original equipment parts are designed to work with your GM vehicle safety systems -- aftermarket replacement parts may not meet the same OE safety regulations, depending on the part type
  • GM regularly updates production and service part designs to integrate new materials and technologies

Last update on 2026-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

Tensioner Asm – W/Pmp & Balr Shf Chain112649233
Sale
ACDelco GM Original Equipment 12649233 Engine Balance Shaft Chain Tensioner
43 Reviews
ACDelco GM Original Equipment 12649233 Engine Balance Shaft Chain Tensioner
  • Applies pre-set tension to the balance shaft chain to help prevent unnecessary balance shaft noise, engine vibration, and component wear
  • GM-recommended replacement part for your GM vehicle’s original factory component
  • Offering the quality, reliability, and durability of GM OE
  • Manufactured to GM OE specification for fit, form, and function

Last update on 2026-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

Gasket, Engine Front Cover124435052

Last update on 2026-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

Seal, Fuel Pump Housing (Oring)112602379
General Motors 12602379, Fuel Pump Gasket
  • Genuine ACDelco part that fits your specific vehicle
  • Fuel Tank Sending Unit O-Ring
  • Part Number: 12602379
  • Manufactured to meet specifications for fit, form, and function

Last update on 2026-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

Pipe Asm, Fuel Feed Inter112608374
GM Pipe
  • GM Pipe

Last update on 2026-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

Seal, Cr/Shf Front Oil112584041
Genuine GM 12584041 Crankshaft Oil Seal, Front
10 Reviews

Last update on 2026-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

Bolt Asm, Hx Hd W/Con Spr Washer111589123
General Motors, BOLT, 11589123
  • Coupe, 2.2L. Coupe, 2.4L. Sedan, 2.2L. 2.0L turbocharged. 2.0L supercharged. 2.0L turbo, 2011-2013.

Last update on 2026-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

Bolt, Cm/Shf Posn Actr211588844
GM Bolt
2 Reviews

Last update on 2026-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

Filter, Oil112605566
ACDelco GM Original Equipment PF457G (12605566) Engine Oil Filter
  • Helps keep abrasive particles away from bearings and other engine hydraulic components
  • Some ACDelco GM Original Equipment parts may have formerly appeared as GM Genuine Parts (OE) or ACDelco Professional
  • ACDelco GM Original Equipment parts are designed, engineered and tested to rigorous standards, and are backed by General MotorseBay logo
  • GM Engineers design and validate OE parts specifically for your ChevroleteBay logo, BuickeBay logo, GMC, or CadillaceBay logo vehicle
  • GM regularly updates production and service part designs to integrate new materials and technologies

Last update on 2026-06-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

Oil, Engine, AC Delco DEXOS1 5W30519293000

No products found.

Screw Schraube (Connecting Rod)890537293

Last update on 2026-06-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

Sealant, RTV288864346
ACDelco GM Original Equipment 10-2006 (88864346) RTV Engine Sealant - 75 g
  • Engineered for use on a variety of engine components – effective on: oil pan, ladder frame, front and rear covers, t-joints, manifold corners, intake, manifold end seals, and cam covers
  • Designed for quick and easy application, assembly may be filled with oil or coolant immediately after applying sealant and torqueing the bolts
  • High viscosity product that cures when exposed to air
  • Country of Origin: United States

Last update on 2026-06-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

Guide, Balr Chain190537336
Sale
GENERAL MOTORS 90537336 SGUIDE
  • Alero, Grand Am, Malibu. Aura Green Line, Aura. Cavalier, Sunfire. Equinox, Terrain. Malibu Hybrid. Captiva Sport. Vue Hybrid. Solstice. LaCrosse. Cobalt. Impala. Verano. Regal. Ion. Sky. HHR. G5. G6. Right. Upper. Lower. SaturneBay logo. 2.0l, 2.2l.

Last update on 2026-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

Coolant, Engine, Dexcool Antifreeze112346290

No products found.

 


2 Affected Products

Vehicles

CHEVROLETeBay logoEQUINOX2011
GMCTERRAIN2011

 


 


Bulletin No.: 15285D
Date: April 2017

https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=10118905
https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2017/MC-10118905-9999.pdf

To View or Download this Document Click Here


Bulletin No.: 15285C
Date: March 2016

https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=10090368
https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2016/SB-10090368-2280.pdf

To View or Download this Document Click Here


Bulletin No.: 15285B
Date: March 2016

https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=10090366
https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2016/SB-10090366-2280.pdf

To View or Download this Document Click Here


Bulletin No.: 15285
Date: July 2015

https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=10089894
https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2015/SB-10089894-2280.pdf

To View or Download this Document Click Here


Bulletin No.: 15285
Date: July 2015

https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=10058791
https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2015/SB-10058791-5041.pdf

To View or Download this Document Click Here

 

https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2015/CSC-10058791-5041.pdf

To View or Download this Document Click Here


 

SaleBestseller No. 1
Valvoline MaxLife High Mileage 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil 5 Quart
  • Formulated for engines with 75,000 miles or more, Valvoline MaxLife High Mileage synthetic blend is formulated with seal conditioners to help prevent oil leaks and reduce oil consumption
  • Delivers 20% better wear protection and 15% better sludge defense than industry standards to help prevent engine breakdown
  • Extra detergents safeguard against friction, corrosion and deposits to keep high-mileage engines clean
  • Advanced friction-fighting additives help maximize performance and improve fuel efficiency
  • Provides performance benefits for high mileage, new and re-built engines alike
Bestseller No. 2
Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-30, 5 Quart
  • Mobil 1 advanced full-synthetic motor oil 5W-30 utilizes Mobil 1’s signature Triple Action Formula to deliver outstanding engine performance, protection, and cleanliness.
  • Helps protect critical engine parts for up to 10,000 miles between oil changes,* controlling oxidation to prevent oil breakdown and maintaining excellent viscosity
  • Meets ILSAC GF-6 standards to help provide low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) and timing chain wear protection while keeping your engine clean and helping to improve your fuel economy
  • Mobil 1 is specially formulated to help remove sludge and lower engine temperatures
  • Provides excellent internal engine heat protection (up to 500 degrees F) and low temperature protection (to -30 degrees F)
SaleBestseller No. 3
Castrol EDGE High Mileage 5W-30 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil, 5 Quarts
  • Phosphorus Replacement Technology to help extend the life of the emission system
  • Reduces leaks, oil burnoff and power robbing deposits
  • 15,000 miles between oil changes*
  • Meets or exceeds the following specifications: API SP/SN PLUS/SN/SM | ILSAC GF-6 | Meets engine test requirements of Chrysler MS 6395 | Meets FordeBay logo WSS-M2C946-B1 | Meets FordeBay logo WSS-M2C961-A3
  • Or one year, whichever comes first
SaleBestseller No. 4
Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic SAE 5W-30 Motor Oil 5 QT
  • Advanced protection against the four main causes of engine breakdown: wear friction heat and deposits
  • Delivers 40% stronger wear protection than industry standards to reduce friction and improve fuel economy
  • Provides 15% better deposit defense vs. industry standards, keeping engines cleaner for smoother performance and longer-lasting protection
  • Up to 2.5X better heat protection vs. industry standards to fight harmful sludge formation and thermal breakdown
  • Engineered for excellent low-temperature flow, reducing metal-to-metal contact during cold starts — when most engine wear typically occurs
SaleBestseller No. 5
Castrol EDGE 5W-30 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil, 5 Quarts
  • 3X Stronger than the leading full synthetic*
  • 10X Better high stress performance**
  • 20,000 miles between oil changes***
  • Viscosity breakdown as measured in Kurt Orbahn test on 5W-30 grade
  • As measured in Seq IX test under high load/torque conditions vs. API SQ test limits

Last update on 2026-06-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.

35 thoughts on “Excessive Engine Oil Consumption – 2011 Chevrolet Equinox & GMC Terrain”

  1. Bought our 2011 Chevy Equinox last May from a dealership. I was never informed of the bulletin not verbally nor did we get a letter. Now I wss told to do an oil consu test and they would try to work with me. No such luck . I don’t know why they told me to do the test. I knew it was using too much oil. Dealer wants $3800 for the repair. What can I say. So disappointed in GM !

    Reply
  2. I’m confused, I have the 2011 Terrain, 89k miles. Its almost August 2018, will my vehicle be covered? What do they mean by “7 years, 6 months from when the car was first put in service”? Going to the dealer tomorrow.

    Reply
  3. I have been telling gm about the oil consumption since 2011 and said it was normal. Now i have 196000 km on my terrain and was never notified that there was a problem and now they have TSB 15285C out now i have to see if they will cover my suv

    Reply
  4. I just had the oil consumption test and was approved my car was fixed per the recall procedures and within an hour of me leaving the check engine light is back on. I went starlight back and they said it’s the camshaft and the reCall doesn’t cover that? How is it now a new problem right after being fixed? If the oil consumption caused damage to the can shaft shouldn’t that be covered?
    Should I get rid of my 2011 GMC Terrain? Is it going to be one thing after Another now

    Reply
  5. I purchased a 2011 Equinox back in March 2016. Since then, I’ve completed oil consumption test at least 2 times and the dealer reports there is nothing wrong, however, I must change the oil or the car shakes, rattles and knocks. I’ve had the catalytic converter fixed within the first six months. I’ve had a gas smell in my car and recently because I’ve exceeded 120, 000 miles they said I don’t have a warranty and had to pay out of pocket. Now the car alarm goes off in the middle of the night for no reason. This car is costly and as a single mother, I’m not financially equipped to put all this money into a car every other month. Now there is a recall that I was unaware of on the electrical system and was not notified at all. A lot of your responses say refer to the dealer but they are not holding up to there end of the bargain refusing service or indicating that there is no problem. I need answers now!!!!

    Reply
  6. I own a 2011 Equinox and it is doing the same problem with oil consumption. It is now making a loud rattle noise. It has 137,000 miles on it. Will the dealership fix the piston rings and do an oil consumption test or will have to pay for the repairs myself and probably be out a couple grand.

    Reply
  7. Does a special coverage adjustment require you to show proof of routine maintenance on the vehicle, similar to what you would have to do under your normal powertrain warranty?

    Reply
  8. So I have a 2011 equinox 2.4 that went through the consumption test and had the “ring job.” Unfortunately it developed oil leak around edge of oil pan (doing a number on my garage floor). I brought it back, they “fixed it” and now 6 months later it is leaking again. Will bring it back, but is this a common issue with this repair?

    Reply
  9. My 2011 equinox has 85000 miles and has always burned excessive oil, now it’s leaking oil and I was told it’s the front crankshaft seal. Would this issue cause the seal to break? Will chevy cover the repair?

    Reply
  10. My 2011 Equinox is apparently not one of the ones in the special coverage adjustment. I have been concerned for the past 6-8 months about oil consumption but have no obvious leak or warning light. Am I able to have my vehicle tested even though I’m not supposedly included?

    Reply
  11. Our dealership told us we could not get a rental covered by them while this issue was getting fixed. Why is that?

    Reply
  12. What if I have a 2012 Equinox with 65k miles and it was manufactured 8/11? Oil consumption is around a quart every 1000 miles. No low oil light or message but check engine light comes on. Warranty or not?

    Reply
    • I have a 2011 Equinox which I purchased from my late mother’s estate in 2016. Recently, my engine blew, and I was told that it was low on oil. I put many miles on my car and am good about changing oil. The engine light recently came on and the day the engine blew I had an appointment to have the oil changed. I never received a recall, nor did my mother in my recollection. Am I out of luck (and several $k)?

      Reply
  13. I have a 2011 Chevy Equinox with this issue. I bought it used with 80,000 miles on it. Brought it back to the dealership 3 different times (under warranty) due to the oil consumption. They blamed it on an oil leak each time. It started small and now uses 1qt every 500 miles. Unfortunately, by the time that they finally diagnosed it with this issue it was over the 120,000 mile mark and basically told me too bad. Being a single mother of 2 and this being my only mode of transportation I am beyond frustrated with GM. Will NOT make this mistake again. Even the service writer at the dealership told me it wasn’t worth the money to repair it out of pocket.

    Reply
  14. I received this recall and have been taking my 2011 GMC Terrain to the local GMC dealership for the last 2 months about 6000 miles and have my oil changed twice as they make me bring it in every 1000 miles to check for oil consumption and it’s always between 1/2 quart to 3 quarts low and they keep telling me there is nothing wrong and it’s not using enough oil to qualify however I should keep bringing it in. Is there anything else I can do?

    Reply
  15. I took my 2011 GMC Terrain to an auto shop as the check engine light was on. I was told the issue is due to my timing chains failing because my oil consumption is higher than normal. I informed them I regularly change my oil but they said it was typical for these models to have this issue and quoted me a ridiculous price but then I learned about this special coverage. Would my issue be covered under this special coverage even though the oil lamp light is not on?

    Reply
  16. My Equinox is having this same oil consumption issue. GM said they are not fixing because the owner before me had it fixed and now they don’t believe they should do again.

    Reply
  17. Hello: My 2011 Chevrolet Equinox LTZ had the above issue, was repaired using the procedure above, and still continues to use excessive amounts of oil in between oil changes (about 1.5-2 qts per 3000 miles extra). In addition, I am continually smelling burning oil, so there is an oil leak somewhere. What does GM recommend is my next course of action? Please advise immediately as this is my only means of transportation.

    Reply

Leave a Comment

Share to...