GM Recalls 2025 Chevy Equinox EV for Being Too Quiet

• GM is recalling 7,606 Chevy Equinox EVs because their pedestrian alert sounds are too quiet to meet federal safety standards.
• The fix for the recall is a free software update to adjust sound levels, with notifications starting January 2025.
• In Q3 2024, 9,772 Chevy Equinox EVs were sold, contributing to Chevrolet’s 39,851 total EV sales that year.

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When you think of vehicle sound issues, you probably imagine obnoxiously loud mufflers, overzealous car alarms, or endless honking during rush hour. But what happens when a car is too quiet? Enter the 2025 Chevy Equinox EV, a vehicle so silent that it’s landed General Motors in the hot seat.

Yes, you read that right. It’s too quiet, apparently.

General Motors recently announced a recall of 7,606 Chevy Equinox EVs because their pedestrian alert sounds don’t meet federal safety standards, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). For context, EVs and hybrids are required by law in the United States to produce artificial noise at speeds up to 18.6 miles per hour. This is to ensure pedestrians can hear these nearly silent vehicles approaching, especially in urban areas where foot traffic is heavy.

According to GM, some Equinox EVs may produce sounds that fall below the required volume. “Under some conditions, pedestrians may not be able to determine by sound whether an approaching vehicle is speeding up or slowing down, increasing the risk of injury,” the automaker stated.

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Silent EVs Pose Safety Risks for Pedestrians

Gas-powered cars naturally produce noise from their engines, which pedestrians and cyclists often rely on for awareness. In contrast, electric vehicles operate so quietly that they can approach without being noticed, creating potential safety risks.

For those walking or crossing streets, especially individuals with visual impairments, this near-silence can make it harder to detect an oncoming vehicle, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Chevy Equinox EV Recall Fails to Slow Down Strong Sales

GM isn’t wasting any time addressing the issue. Owners of affected 2025 Chevy Equinox EVs will be notified starting January 2025. The fix is a simple software update to adjust the sound levels. “We’re working to resolve this matter as quickly as possible through software calibration updates,” a GM spokesperson explained.

The recall hasn’t slowed down the Chevy Equinox EV’s growing popularity. The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV LT has a starting MSRP price at $33,600, before the $7,500 federal EV tax credit, making it one of the most affordable options in the EV market.

This competitive pricing has clearly resonated with buyers, with 9,772 Equinox EVs sold in Q3 2024 alone, according to a report by Cox Automotive. By the end of Q3, year-to-date sales for the model reached 10,785 units, a significant jump from the 18 units sold in 2023.

Chevrolet’s total EV sales for 2024 also reflect strong consumer interest, with 39,851 electric vehicles sold across its lineup. The Equinox EV’s strong sales performance has been a key contributor to this success.

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2025 Chevy Equinox EV Offers Range, Features, and Value

If you’re shopping for an electric SUV, the 2025 Chevy Equinox EV has a lot to offer. It comes in five trims, from the base 1LT to the range-topping 3RS. Depending on the trim, you can expect an estimated range of 250 to 300 miles on a full charge. The SUV also supports DC fast charging, adding up to 70 miles of range in just 10 minutes.

Inside, the Equinox EV is packed with features designed for modern drivers. There’s an 11-inch digital instrument cluster and an available 17.7-inch touchscreen, making navigation and entertainment seamless. Safety doesn’t take a backseat either. Chevy’s suite of driver-assist technologies, including Automatic Emergency Braking and Lane Keep Assist, is standard across all trims.

The Equinox EV is designed to provide exceptional value and functionality to a wide range of customers, all while helping to expand EV adoption across the country.

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Chevy Equinox EV Recall Fixes Quiet Issue

If you’re among the 7,606 Equinox EV owners affected by the recall, don’t panic. GM plans to notify you soon, and the fix is straightforward. It’s also free. While you wait, stay extra mindful of pedestrians when driving at low speeds.

For potential buyers, this recall shouldn’t deter you from considering the Equinox EV. It’s a practical, well-priced entry into the electric SUV market. Plus, GM’s swift response shows they’re committed to keeping drivers and pedestrians safe.

The 2025 Chevy Equinox EV may have hit a quiet snag, but it’s still making noise where it counts. In value, design, and functionality.

And, if the thought of silent EVs sneaking up on you still feels unsettling, just remember that they’re getting louder. Well, at least by a few decibels.

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IMAGES: CHEVROLET

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