
Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
12145779) - 2019 - CRC - 7/30/18
Vehicle Care 299
Brake Fluid
The brake master cylinder reservoir
is filled with GM approved DOT 3
brake fluid as indicated on the
reservoir cap. SeeEngine
Compartment Overview 0280 for
the location of the reservoir.
Checking Brake Fluid
With the vehicle in P (Park) on a
level surface, the brake fluid level
should be between the minimum
and maximum marks on the brake
fluid reservoir.
There are only two reasons why the
brake fluid level in the reservoir may
go down:
. Normal brake lining wear. When
new linings are installed, the
fluid level goes back up. .
A fluid leak in the brake
hydraulic system. Have the
brake hydraulic system fixed.
With a leak, the brakes will not
work well.
Always clean the brake fluid
reservoir cap and the area around
the cap before removing it.
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 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. See
Brake System Warning
Light 0134.
Brake fluid absorbs water over time
which degrades the effectiveness of
the brake fluid. Replace brake fluid
at the specified intervals to prevent
increased stopping distance. See
Maintenance Schedule 0370.
What to Add
Use only GM approved DOT 3
brake fluid from a clean, sealed
container. See Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants 0379.
{Warning
The wrong or contaminated brake
fluid could result in damage to the
brake system. This could result in
the loss of braking leading to a
possible injury. Always use the
proper GM approved brake fluid.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
12145779) - 2019 - CRC - 7/30/18
Vehicle Care 359
Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Locks
Locks are lubricated at the factory.
Use a de-icing agent only when
absolutely necessary, and have the
locks greased after using. See
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants0379.
Washing the Vehicle
To preserve the vehicle's finish,
wash it often and out of direct
sunlight.
Caution
Do not use petroleum-based,
acidic, or abrasive cleaning
agents as they can damage the
vehicle's paint, metal, or plastic
parts. If damage occurs, it would
not be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Approved cleaning
products can be obtained from
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
your dealer. Follow all
manufacturer directions regarding
correct product usage, necessary
safety precautions, and
appropriate disposal of any
vehicle care product.
Caution
Avoid using high-pressure
washes closer than 30 cm (12 in)
to the surface of the vehicle. Use
of power washers exceeding
8,274 kPa (1,200 psi) can result
in damage or removal of paint
and decals.
Caution
Do not power wash any
component under the hood that
has this
esymbol.
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
This could cause damage that
would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.
If using an automatic car wash,
follow the car wash instructions. The
windshield wiper and rear window
wiper, if equipped, must be off.
Remove any accessories that may
be damaged or interfere with the car
wash equipment.
Rinse the vehicle well, before
washing and after, to remove all
cleaning agents completely. If they
are allowed to dry on the surface,
they could stain.
Dry the finish with a soft, clean
chamois or an all-cotton towel to
avoid surface scratches and water
spotting.
Finish Care
Application of aftermarket clearcoat
sealant/wax materials is not
recommended. If painted surfaces
are damaged, see your dealer to

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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Vehicle Care 361
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/
Lenses, Emblems, Decals, and
Stripes
Use only lukewarm or cold water, a
soft cloth, and a car washing soap
to clean exterior lamps, lenses,
emblems, decals, and stripes.
Follow instructions under "Washing
the Vehicle" previously in this
section.
Lamp covers are made of plastic,
and some have a UV protective
coating. Do not clean or wipe them
when dry.
Do not use any of the following on
lamp covers:
.Abrasive or caustic agents.
. Washer fluids and other cleaning
agents in higher concentrations
than suggested by the
manufacturer.
. Solvents, alcohols, fuels,
or other harsh cleaners.
. Ice scrapers or other hard items. .
Aftermarket appearance caps or
covers while the lamps are
illuminated, due to excessive
heat generated.
Caution
Failure to clean lamps properly
can cause damage to the lamp
cover that would not be covered
by the vehicle warranty.
Caution
Using wax on low gloss black
finish stripes can increase the
gloss level and create a
non-uniform finish. Clean low
gloss stripes with soap and
water only.
Air Intakes
Clear debris from the air intakes,
between the hood and windshield,
when washing the vehicle.
Shutter System
The vehicle may have a shutter
system designed to help increase
fuel economy. Keep the shutter
system clean for proper operation.
Windshield and Wiper Blades
Clean the outside of the windshield
with glass cleaner.
Clean rubber blades using a lint-free
cloth or paper towel soaked with
windshield washer fluid or a mild
detergent. Wash the windshield
thoroughly when cleaning the
blades. Bugs, road grime, sap, and

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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362 Vehicle Care
a buildup of vehicle wash/wax
treatments may cause wiper
streaking.
Replace the wiper blades if they are
worn or damaged. Damage can be
caused by extreme dusty
conditions, sand, salt, heat, sun,
snow, and ice.
Weatherstrips
Apply weatherstrip lubricant on
weatherstrips to make them last
longer, seal better, and not stick or
squeak. Lubricate weatherstrips at
least once a year. Hot, dry climates
may require more frequent
application. Black marks from
rubber material on painted surfaces
can be removed by rubbing with a
clean cloth. SeeRecommended
Fluids and Lubricants 0379.
Tires
Use a stiff brush with tire cleaner to
clean the tires.
Caution
Using petroleum-based tire
dressing products on the vehicle
may damage the paint finish and/
or tires. When applying a tire
dressing, always wipe off any
overspray from all painted
surfaces on the vehicle.
Wheels and Wheel Trim
Use a soft, clean cloth with mild
soap and water to clean the wheels.
After rinsing thoroughly with clean
water, dry with a soft, clean towel.
A wax may then be applied.
Caution
Chrome wheels and chrome
wheel trim may be damaged if the
vehicle is not washed after driving
on roads that have been sprayed
with magnesium chloride or
calcium chloride. These are used
on roads for conditions such as
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
dust and ice. Always wash the
chrome with soap and water after
exposure.
Caution
To avoid surface damage on
wheels and wheel trim, do not
use strong soaps, chemicals,
abrasive polishes, cleaners,
or brushes. Use only GM
approved cleaners. Do not drive
the vehicle through an automatic
car wash that uses silicone
carbide tire/wheel cleaning
brushes. Damage could occur
and the repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Brake System
Visually inspect brake lines and
hoses for proper attachment,
connections, binding, leaks, cracks,
chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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368 Service and Maintenance
Service and
Maintenance
General Information
General Information . . . . . . . . . . 368
Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . 370
Special Application Services
Special ApplicationServices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 375
Additional Maintenance
and Care
Additional Maintenanceand Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 376
Recommended Fluids,
Lubricants, and Parts
Recommended Fluids andLubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 379
Maintenance Replacement Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 380
Maintenance Records
Maintenance Records . . . . . . . . 382
General Information
Your vehicle is an important
investment. This section describes
the required maintenance for the
vehicle. Follow this schedule to help
protect against major repair
expenses resulting from neglect or
inadequate maintenance. It may
also help to maintain the value of
the vehicle if it is sold. It is the
responsibility of the owner to have
all required maintenance performed.
Your dealer has trained technicians
who can perform required
maintenance using genuine
replacement parts. They have
up-to-date tools and equipment for
fast and accurate diagnostics. Many
dealers have extended evening and
Saturday hours, courtesy
transportation, and online
scheduling to assist with service
needs.
Your dealer recognizes the
importance of providing
competitively priced maintenance
and repair services. With trained
technicians, the dealer is the place for routine maintenance such as oil
changes and tire rotations and
additional maintenance items like
tires, brakes, batteries, and wiper
blades.
Caution
Damage caused by improper
maintenance can lead to costly
repairs and may not be covered
by the vehicle warranty.
Maintenance intervals, checks,
inspections, recommended fluids,
and lubricants are important to
keep the vehicle in good working
condition.
Do not have chemical flushes that
are not approved by GM
performed on the vehicle. The
use of flushes, solvents, cleaners,
or lubricants that are not
approved by GM could damage
the vehicle, requiring expensive
repairs that are not covered by
the vehicle warranty.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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Service and Maintenance 377
Fluids
Proper fluid levels and approved
fluids protect the vehicle’s systems
and components. See
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants0379 for GM approved
fluids.
. Engine oil and windshield
washer fluid levels should be
checked at every fuel fill.
. Instrument cluster lights may
come on to indicate that fluids
may be low and need to be
filled.
Hoses
Hoses transport fluids and should
be regularly inspected to ensure
that there are no cracks or leaks.
With a multi-point inspection, your
dealer can inspect the hoses and
advise if replacement is needed. Lamps
Properly working headlamps,
taillamps, and brake lamps are
important to see and be seen on
the road.
.
Signs that the headlamps need
attention include dimming, failure
to light, cracking, or damage.
The brake lamps need to be
checked periodically to ensure
that they light when braking.
. With a multi-point inspection,
your dealer can check the lamps
and note any concerns.
Shocks and Struts
Shocks and struts help aid in control
for a smoother ride.
. Signs of wear may include
steering wheel vibration, bounce/
sway while braking, longer
stopping distance, or uneven
tire wear. .
As part of the multi-point
inspection, trained dealer
technicians can visually inspect
the shocks and struts for signs
of leaking, blown seals,
or damage, and can advise
when service is needed.
Tires
Tires need to be properly inflated,
rotated, and balanced. Maintaining
the tires can save money and fuel,
and can reduce the risk of tire
failure.
. Signs that the tires need to be
replaced include three or more
visible treadwear indicators; cord
or fabric showing through the
rubber; cracks or cuts in the
tread or sidewall; or a bulge or
split in the tire.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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Service and Maintenance 379
Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Parts
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
UsageFluid/Lubricant
Automatic Transmission DEXRON-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Diesel Exhaust Aftertreatment System Diesel Exhaust Fluid (GM Part No. 19286291, in Canada 88865751) or diesel exhaust fluid that meets ISO 22241-1 or displays the API Diesel
Exhaust Fluid Certification Mark.
Engine Coolant 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and use only DEX-COOL Coolant.
See Cooling System 0292.
Engine Oil (Diesel) Engine oil meeting the dexos2 specification of the proper SAE viscosity
grade. ACDelco dexos2 is recommended. See Engine Oil0285.
Engine Oil (Gasoline) Engine oil meeting the dexos1 specification of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 full synthetic is recommended. See Engine Oil
0 285.
Hood and Door Hinges Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. 12346241, in Canada 10953474).
Hood Latch Assembly, Secondary Latch, Pivots, Spring Anchor, and
Release Pawl Lubriplate Lubricant Aerosol (GM Part No. 89021668, in
Canada 89021674) or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2,
Category LB or GC-LB.
Hydraulic Brake System DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (GM Part No. 19353126, in Canada 19353127).
Transfer Case (All-Wheel Drive) Transfer Case Fluid (GM Part No. 88900401, in Canada 89021678).

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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Index 419
Lighting (cont'd)Illumination Control . . . . . . . . . . . 165
LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 305
Lights
Airbag Readiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Antilock Brake System(ABS) Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Brake System Warning . . . . . . . 134
Charging System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Check Engine (Malfunction Indicator) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) . . . 139
Electric Parking Brake . . . . . . . . 134
Engine Oil Pressure . . . . . . . . . . 138
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
Front Fog Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
High-Beam On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
High/Low Beam Changer . . . . . 162
Lane Keep Assist . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Low Fuel Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Seat Belt Reminders . . . . . . . . . . 129
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Service Electric Parking Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
StabiliTrak OFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Tow/Haul Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135 Lights (cont'd)
Traction Control System
(TCS)/StabiliTrak . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Traction Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Wait to Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Locks Automatic Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Lockout Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Power Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Loss of Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182
Low Fuel Warning Light . . . . . . . . . 139
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH
System) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Lumbar Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
M
MaintenanceRecords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 382
Maintenance and Care
Additional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 376
Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . 370 Maintenance Schedule (cont'd)
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 379
Malfunction Indicator Lamp . . . . . 132
Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Memory Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Memory Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Messages Engine Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Vehicle Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Mirrors Automatic Dimming . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Automatic DimmingRearview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Convex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Folding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Heated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Manual Rearview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Tilt in Reverse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Mirrors, Interior Rearview . . . . . . . . 51
Monitor System, Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 325