Although the Camaro and Corvette are two of Chevrolet’s most iconic models, it’s high volume compact crossovers like the Chevy Equinox that actually pay the bills. It’s not designed to break any new ground, but an Equinox will provide you and your family with very convenient way to traverse the planet. And while they tend to be very reliable, Chevy Equinox transmission problems do still happen. So let’s find out what you can do about them.
What Transmission Do I Have?
Chevy Equinox Transmission Models
Chevy Equinox: 6T70 Transmission
Chevy Equinox: 6T45 Transmission
Chevy Equinox: 6T40 Transmission
Chevy Equinox: 9T50 Transmission
Chevy Equinox: AW55-50SN Transmission
Chevy Equinox Transmission Replacement Cost Estimate
Pricing varies by model. To be 100% sure on pricing, have your VIN# handy and use our Get An Estimate feature to look up your transmission by VIN#.
Replacement 6T70 Transmission:
| Transmission | Street Smart Transmission |
|---|---|
| 6T75E / 6T70 | 2432 |
Replacement 6T40 Transmission:
| Transmission | Street Smart Transmission |
|---|---|
| 6T40 / 6T45 | 2432 |
Replacement AW55-50SN Transmission:
| Transmission | Street Smart Transmission |
What are the DTC codes related to Chevy Equinox transmission problems?
| Trouble Code | Description |
|---|---|
| P0711 | Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance |
| P0712 | Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input |
| P0713 | Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input |
| P0714 | Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent P0715 |
| P0715 | Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit |
| P0716 | Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit Range/Performance |
| P0717 | Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal |
| P0718 | Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent |
| P0720 | Output Speed Sensor Circuit |
| P0721 | Output Speed Sensor Circuit Range/Performance |
| P0722 | Output Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal |
| P0723 | Output Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent |
| P0729 | Gear 6 Incorrect Ratio |
| P0730 | Incorrect Gear Ratio |
| P0731 | Gear 1 Incorrect Ratio |
| P0732 | Gear 2 Incorrect Ratio |
| P0734 | Gear 4 Incorrect Ratio |
| P0735 | Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio |
| P0740 | Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction |
| P0741 | Torque Converter Clutch Circuit |
| P0742 | Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On |
| P0744 | Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Intermittent |
| P0748 | Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Electrical |
| P0750 | Shift Solenoid 'A' |
| P0751 | Shift Solenoid 'A' Performance or Stuck Off |
| P0753 | Shift Solenoid 'A' Electrical |
| P0755 | Shift Solenoid 'B' |
| P0756 | Shift Solenoid 'B' Performance or Stuck Off |
| P0758 | Shift Solenoid 'B' Electrical |
| P0767 | Shift Solenoid 'D' Stuck On |
| P0776 | Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' Performance or Stuck Off |
| P0796 | Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Performance or Stuck off |
| P0816 | Transmission Fluid Pressure Manual Valve Position Switch Park/Neutral with Drive Ratio |
| P0816 | Downshift Switch Circuit |
| P0826 | Up and Down Shift Switch Circuit |
| P0842 | Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch A Circuit Low |
| P0850 | Park/Neutral Switch Input Circuit |
| P0851 | Park/Neutral Switch Input Circuit Low |
| P0852 | Park/Neutral Switch Input Circuit High |
| P0897 | Transmission Fluid Deteriorated |
| P0961 | Pressure Control Solenoid A Control Circuit Range/Performance |
| P0962 | Pressure Control Solenoid A Control Circuit Low |
| P0963 | Pressure Control Solenoid A Control Circuit High |
| P0965 | Pressure Control Solenoid B Control Circuit Range/Performance |
| P0966 | Pressure Control Solenoid B Control Circuit Low |
| P0967 | Pressure Control Solenoid B Control Circuit High |
| P0969 | Pressure Control Solenoid C Control Circuit Range/Performance |
| P0970 | Pressure Control Solenoid C Control Circuit Low |
| P0971 | Pressure Control Solenoid C Control Circuit High |
| P0973 | Shift Solenoid A Control Circuit Low |
| P0974 | Shift Solenoid A Control Circuit High |
| P0976 | Shift Solenoid B Control Circuit Low |
| P0977 | Shift Solenoid B Control Circuit High |
| P0979 | Shift Solenoid C Control Circuit Low |
| P0980 | Shift Solenoid C Control Circuit High |
| P0982 | Shift Solenoid D Control Circuit Low |
| P0983 | Shift Solenoid D Control Circuit High |
| P0984 | Shift Solenoid E Control Circuit Range/Performance |
| P2714 | Pressure Control Solenoid D Performance or Stuck Off |
| P2723 | Pressure Control Solenoid E Stuck Off |
Chevy Equinox Transmission Recalls
None Found
Chevy Equinox Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)
TSB PI4075 – 6T75 transmission overheating
2008 – 2012 Chevy Equinox
Problem – The 6T75 transmission could experience an overtemperature situation, even if it’s not warranted by the driving conditions. This issue will be accompanied by a warning message in the drivers information center (if so equipped) and one or both of the following DTC’s: P0218 and/or P0634.
Solution – If a mechanical issue is not determined to be at fault, then it’s possible that the problem is caused by too much transmission fluid, dirty transmission fluid or restrictions in the transmission cooler circuit. Click the above link to learn more about this TSB.
TSB 09-04-21-004B – Fluid leaking from the transmission or transfer case
2010 – 2012 Chevy Equinox
Problem – A fluid leak is possible from either the transmission case to transfer case interface, or the transfer case left hand weep hole.
Solution – For a leak coming from the transfer case to transmission case interface, a new transfer case O ring seal will be needed. For a leak coming from the transfer case left side weep hole, a new transfer case input shaft seal and transfer case O ring seal will be needed. To learn more about this TSB, click the link above.
TSB PI0324F – No forward, no reverse, engine will not crank, engine will not start – 6T30 Transmission | 6T40 Transmission | 6T45 Transmission | 6T50 Transmission
2011-2014 Buick LaCrosse – 2011-2014 Buick Regal – 2012-2014 Buick Verano – 2013-2014 Buick Encore – 2011-2013 Chevrolet Malibu – 2011-2014 Chevrolet Cruze – 2011-2014 Chevrolet Equinox – 2012-2014 Chevrolet Captiva Sport – 2012-2014 Chevrolet Orlando – 2012-2014 Chevrolet Sonic – 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco – 2013-2014 Chevrolet Trax – 2011-2014 GMC Terrain
Problem – Some of the symptoms of this problem include; the transmission will not engage, the engine cranks but will not start, transmission fluid leaks, unusually harsh shifts, transmission slipping, certain transmission gears will not engage. These diagnostic trouble codes may also be present; P0776, P0796, P2714, P2723.
Solution – These problems may be caused by low line pressure due to a damaged transmission pump.
PI0376A – Flare or slipping on the shift from 2nd or 6th gear – Chevrolet Equinox 6T40
Problem – When this common Equinox transmission problem occurs, the driver may experience slipping and/or a sudden flare/surge when the transmission shifts into or out of 2nd/6th gear.
Solution – This problem is often caused by debris blocking the opening on the channel plate and spacer plate that provides oil to the 2-6 clutch regulator valve. To correct the issue, the channel plate, spacer plate and valve body will have to be cleaned.
TSB 07-07-30-014 – Check Engine Light with P0711 DTC – Chevrolet Equinox – AF33
Problem – Due to a software glitch in the TCM, it’s possible to have a Check Engine Light with a P0711 diagnostic trouble code.
Solution – Reprogram the TCM.
Common Problems with the Chevy Equinox Transmission
Input/Output Speed Sensor Issues – Chevrolet Equinox 6T70
Problem – When repairing a failed input speed sensor or output speed sensor, steering system damage could occur.
Solution – To avoid damage to the clock springs, the splined steering knuckle must be prevented from falling out of the steering rack when dropping the subframe to access the valve body.
Axle seal leak – Chevrolet Equinox 6T40E
Problem – A transmission fluid leak on the driver side, is often traced back to the driver side axle seal.
Solution – This issue stems from a failure prone drivers side axle bushing, which often fails to poor material quality and lubrication. An upgraded bearing will have to be installed.
Lack of Response
Leaking Fluid
Low Fluid
Burning Smell
Grinding or Shaking
Whining, Clunking or Humming
Refuses to Go Into Gear
Torque Converter Issues
Valve Body Issues
Transmission Noisy in Neutral
Gears Slipping
No 3rd or 4th Gear
No 1st or 2nd Gear
No Reverse
Dragging Clutch
Trouble Codes / Check Engine Light
Can I drive with a transmission problem?
Most of the time, Chevy Equinox transmission problems start off as minor inconveniences. A gear will slip, it’ll take a little longer to change gears, or there may be a weird noise when you put the vehicle into gear. Most of these symptoms can be easily dismissed and ignored, but you may be setting yourself up for a much bigger repair bill if you do. So do yourself a favor and get your transmission seen about as soon as possible.
How often does a Chevy Equinox transmission need to be replaced?
Driving style and the way you take care of it, has a lot to do with how long your Chevrolet Equinox transmission will last. But OE design flaws also have a lot to do with it too. The average we’ve seen is 130,000-180,000 miles for the stock gearbox. However a remanufactured 6T45E / 6T70E / AW55-50SN transmission can often last for a lot longer.
How are Chevy Equinox transmission issues diagnosed?
Thanks to computers, diagnosing Chevrolet Equinox transmission problems is a fairly straightforward process. The first thing a technician will do is retrieve the diagnostic trouble codes from the ECU. This information can help point them in the right direction, that way they’ll know where to look when performing a visual inspection to verify the problem.
How is a Chevy Equinox transmission replaced?
Because the Equinox is primarily FWD, removing the old transmission may require the engine and/or front subframe to be partially removed. Installing the new gearbox is obviously a reverse of the removal process. But once it is in place, the vehicle PCM will have to be reprogrammed / reflashed to accept the new transmission using the latest GM subscription.
Recommendations for Chevy Equinox transmission issues?
To save time and get back on the road faster, have your 17-digit truck VIN# handy and you can get an online quote for a reman Chevy Equinox transmission here, then find a local shop using our Find a Shop guide to install it for you.
How to Solve Chevy Equinox Transmission Problems
Solution A: Buy a Used Chevy Equinox Transmission
The simplest solution to your Chevy Equinox transmission problems would be to buy a used 6T45E / used 6T70E / used AW55-50SN transmission from a local junkyard. However, it may very well have the same problems that you’re trying to fix now. And the 30-90 day warranty may not cover labor charges to fix that shiny used transmission.
Solution B: Buy a Rebuilt Chevy Equinox Transmission
To avoid the uncertainty of buying a used Chevy Equinox transmission, you could opt for a rebuilt 6T45E / rebuilt 6T70E / rebuilt AW55-50SN transmission. But if the mechanic uses an OE master rebuild kit, most of the problems associated with factory design flaws will eventually return. And the warranty they give you may only be honored by that shop. So if you have transmission problems while you’re traveling, you’ll be paying for the repairs yourself.
Solution C: Buy a Remanufactured Chevy Equinox Transmission
To get the most reliable solution for your Chevrolet Equinox transmission problems, you’re going need to consider investing in a remanufactured 6T45E / remanufactured 6T70E / remanufactured AW55-50SN transmission. If they’re done correctly (i.e. good quality components, modifications to correct design flaws, dyno testing etc.), you can get a lot more miles out of it. And you may be able to get a nationwide warranty too.
What Transmission Do I Have?
What Problem Does Your Chevy Equinox Have?
Let us know the year, mileage and problem you’re having as well as any trouble (OBD) codes you’ve found. If you’ve been given a quote or paid for a repair, we’d like to hear about that too!
My 2014 Chevy equinox seemed like it stalled while I was driving, it can only accelerate up to 3 miles per hour and it sounds like the engine is over working while in drive, it works and drives completely fine in reverse but when I put my car into reverse it jumps back 3 to 4 times like it jerks hard. My check engine light also is on
When you driving on the city sometimes if you driving like 35 40 miles for some reason it comes back to first gear
No Data to the ABS module from the transmission COLD below freezing
The trans slips and shifts hard sometimes. No codes though, 2019 equinox with 45,000 miles
2007 equinox When put in drive it starts in 3rd gear and never changes any other gear
I cannot get the equinox to start nothing happens there is a clicking noise inside the transmission at the black cover.
2012 chwvy equinox
2011 240341 crank it up and put it in gear and it has poor taken off then it acts like it’s in. Neutral have cut the car off and cut it back home and do the same thing you know a little bit quicker transmission is winding I’ve already put fluid in it code is p0 700
2020 equinox 54k miles. Already had a rebuild in 2017. Don’t remember issue then, this time Couldn’t shift into drive, could only shift to reverse
2010 LT. 6 cyl.Will not shift out of first gear. No codes.
Won’t come out of park. The M is illuminated When the P for Park should be illuminated
2005 equinox seems motor was replaced, transmission issues after replacing the transmission computer once you get to 5th gear your stuck there until stop and restart. Mechanic has been chasing wiring issues as it seems mechanically sound any advice?
I’ve been chasing an agitating shaking when in drive and stopped at a stop sign or traffic light. It goes away in neutral and park and after accelerating to speed. ECM was and still has been throwing codes Po5o6 and other fuels related conditions. I have thrown all the parts at it. Codes will stop for a while and come back. So then I started with stabilizer links and it got better but not cured at all. So Having 240k miles on this 2015 equinox I figured I would just replace sway bar bushings, struts, cv axles, wheel bearings, rotors and pads all at once. And all this isolated the whirring and clicks, clacks and clunk to transmission. oh yea and all motor mounts as were replaced. The motor isnt without its leaks but is still running really good. Is this a repair or replace situation as Im looking another 2015 to buy to have too.
Have a PO700 code, what is it? It isn’t on the transmission code list you have posted here
When driving the transmission seems to goto neutral..the engine is good but vehicle will not move forward or reverse.
The transmission works perfectly fine when it is below freezing. When the temperatures get to 32° up to 40°, it begins to shutter shake and act like the axles need replacing. It is obvious that the viscosity in the transmission fluid is not doing its job when the the transmission is warm. This is not something that you have to warm up the vehicle for it to to begin it only needs to be 40° outside and it starts at the moment you start the vehicle and drive it. It does get worse with driving. We have driven the car through three Winters I believe and all three Winters it drives perfectly fine on dry pavement with no issues. There are very few issues going straight but it is a torque value issue the more torque that is applied to the transmission the more issues happen with slipping clutches slipping gears etc. This should be a recall in my opinion because other transmissions do not do this. I have a turbo 400 in my vehicle and it’s from 1966. It’s still operates and moves around without any of those issues of course it doesn’t have all these fancy all-wheel drive clutch system. But that does not mean that the transmission fluid and the components should fail based on A drop in viscosity. Changing the fluid in the filters and everything does not change anything in this transmission it is either a computer issue or it is a transmission fluid issue. Any mechanic that plugs into the vehicle does not receive any information explaining any of this situation it only tells them that you want to replace the transmission. If the transmission works perfectly fine in the winter then it obviously does not need to be replaced. The issue is why is the transmission overheating or why is the transmission fluid overheating or losing viscosity at 32 degrees Fahrenheit? With fresh fluid.
Let me know what your ideas are on this situation
2015 LTZ Equinox
Was driving fine then all of a sudden wouldn’t shift out of 2nd. Had it towed t dealership and was told wave plate was defective. $3,000 to fix. 92,000 miles.
2011 chevy equinox has 87000 miles , my first problem ,after 8 years startet with my Air Conditiong ,cause found condensor leaking now two weeks later.When i drove Home from a bussy Highway ,just turn in the Road not far from my House ,the Transmission was slipping was still driving and it dident go in the gears and stopped completly ( no lights came on) called the Cheverolet Dealer Repair Shop that all happen on a Saturday afternoon. They had to call some one from my Town they came with a Flat bed and picked it up. They gave me a Loaner till it get fixed. Now three days later they called and told me it is defently the Transmission. My Auto Warranty ( Auto Assure dont want to pay for anew Transmission a rebuild one ) I said i bought that Car brandnew i want a new Transmission not on old rebuild one . Or i never buye a Chevrolet again . I loved the Car drove good but now i dont like it. It will take a week till they get the Transmission and the Car be finished fixed.
2010 chevy equinox all of a sudden it bucked going down the hwy kicked in and out of gear now im sitti g on the hwy wirh no reverse and only 1st gear has 99987 miles bit this is 2019 so the 5 year 100,000 mile waranty is up so now i have to walk to work thanks ro chevy and the pieco junk they have in the equinox tranny there are notjing but complaints but what isbchevy doing avout ot nothing they get rich we get a piece of junk
My 2008 Equinoc all wheel drive. When cruising when I let up on accelerator then resume it clunks like theres a delay and a gear is like catching up
2011 LT equinox, had some hard shifting randomly, today car revved up while sitting at red light. Pulled into parking lot, car would not go into reverse. Had to push it out of parking space. Was able to drive about 10 mph but started knocking. Pulled over again. This time let it sit for about 30 min. Was able to put in reverse and drive about 20 min. Then same issue. Revved up again at stop light, knocking and slipping. Finally transmission light came on. Parked it and waiting for a call from service guy to come tow it. 103,000 miles
2011 Chevy Equinox, transmission rebuilt at 35,ooo n I now have 69,895 miles and transmission leaking. Should dealer have to fix it again for free