The problem of not shutting off properly is common for Chevy Equinox's first and second generation, most common for the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine.
Engine systems use highlights
- Level of importance:important
- When done:when driving or maintaining the vehicle
- Cost of mistake:$100 - $300
- How to avoid:read driver's manual, ask your dealership for guidelines
- Consequences:wrong use ofimportantfunctions, minor engine damage
- DIY solutions:possible
The problem: the engine keeps running for several seconds or even longer after you switch off the ignition. All other functions of the vehicle may or may not turn off depending on the initial reason for the problem.
Here are the most common reasons for this:
- Water damage to the ignition relay. If you go into a deep puddle on the road, the water may splash into the engine compartment and eventually damage the ignition relay which is not really well protected.
- Water damage to other electrical parts. It's not uncommon for the Equinox to develop problems with the fuse box under the hood or other electrical modules because of the same reason as in the first mentioned reason.
- Ignition switch issues. If everything is OK with the relay and other electrical components, it's worth checking the ignition cylinder. It may have poor contacts or corroded connections.
- Injection problems. You may experience the so-called dieseling problem when extra fuel is injected into the cylinders even when the engine is off. This may make it keep running a few seconds after the ignition is off.
I would pay attention exactly to the ignition relay because this is the common weak link in the old Equinox with the 2.4L engine. By the way, the problem is also common for other GM cars equipped with the 2.4L non-turbo engine.
Here's how you fix this issue:
- Locate the ignition relay under the hood of your car.
- Check the relay - measure resistance between the pins and make sure there is no resistance at all. If there is, the relay is bad.
- Buy the OEM ignition relay (use the VIN to find the proper part).
- Make sure you clean the contacts before inserting the new relay.
- Install the new ignition relay and start the car.
- Drive for a while, turn the engine off, and see if it actually shits off now.
Make sure you don't do any DIY repairs in your vehicle unless you know what you are doing! If you still have questions or want to tell you about your experience with the Equinox not shutting off, please write in the comments below!
About the authors
The CarAraC research team is composed of seasoned auto mechanics and automotive industry professionals, including individuals with advanced degrees and certifications in their field. Our team members boast prestigious credentials, reflecting their extensive knowledge and skills. These qualifications include: IMI: Institute of the Motor Industry, ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technicians; Coventry University, Graduate of MA in Automotive Journalism; Politecnico di Torino, Italy, MS Automotive Engineering; Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Mechanical University in Skopje; TOC Automotive College; DHA Suffa University, Department of Mechanical Engineering
Add comment