DIY REPAIR GUIDE — CHEVROLET EQUINOX AND GMC TERRAIN 2.4 2010–2017
Chevy Equinox 2.4 Oil Consumption Check
The 2.4-litre four-cylinder in many 2010–2017 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain models can burn oil because of sticking piston rings.
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By the Radman Auto Repair team, independent auto repair in Etobicoke since 1999 · Updated November 2026
The 2.4-litre four-cylinder in many 2010–2017 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain models can burn oil because of sticking piston rings. Running low on oil also stretches the timing chain, so catching it early matters.
Quick answer: If an Equinox or Terrain 2.4 needs oil between changes, measure how much it uses per 1,000 km, check the oil level every fill-up and check the PCV system. Ask GM about special coverage for piston rings on some 2010–2013 engines, and never let the level drop below the add mark.
At a glance
- Vehicles: Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain 2.4 2010–2017; Chevrolet Malibu, Buick LaCrosse and Regal 2.4
- DIY difficulty: Easy
- Time: about 20 minutes
- Tools: clean rag, flashlight, notebook
- Parts: dexos-approved engine oil, oil filter
- Codes & warning lights: low oil warning, P0008, P0016, P0017 (timing chain) if run low
- Recalls: check your VIN first; some of these problems are covered by recalls, campaigns or extended warranties
Symptoms
Low oil level the dipstick is low well before the next change.
Low oil warning the warning comes on between changes.
Blue smoke smoke on start-up or acceleration.
Fouled plugs misfires from oily spark plugs.
Timing chain rattle rattle on start-up or timing codes if the oil ran low.
What Causes It
Sticking piston rings oil control rings clog and let oil burn.
PCV system a faulty PCV can pull oil into the intake.
Long oil changes long intervals let deposits build up.
Before You Start
- Park on level ground, set the parking brake and chock the wheels. Never work under a car held up only by a jack: use rated jack stands.
- Let the engine and exhaust cool before you touch them; coolant systems are under pressure when hot.
- Wear safety glasses and gloves, and disconnect the 12V battery before unplugging electrical parts or working near airbags.
- Check for open recalls on your VIN (Transport Canada or the manufacturer’s site) before you buy parts: a recall repair is free at the dealer.
- Check the oil with the engine off and level for an accurate reading.
Step-by-Step: Equinox 2.4 Oil Consumption
- Start at full. Change the oil or top it up exactly to the full mark and note the odometer.
- Check every fill-up. Check the level at each fuel stop with the engine off for a few minutes.
- Measure. Record how much you add per 1,000 km. Anything close to a litre per 2,000 km is excessive.
- Check the PCV. Inspect PCV hoses for cracks and oil and check for oil in the intake tube.
- Check for codes. Scan for timing codes P0008, P0016 or P0017.
- Check your VIN. Ask a GM dealer about special coverage on your engine.
- Keep it full. Never let the level drop below the add mark; carry a litre of oil.
When to Stop and Bring It In
- You add more than a litre every 2,000 km.
- Timing chain codes or rattle: the chain may be stretched.
- Misfires or blue smoke.
- You want the documented oil-consumption test for a coverage claim.
Not sure, or out of time? Radman Auto Repair in Etobicoke does this repair every week. Book online or call (416) 742-4521.
Also Known As
Searched as “Equinox burning oil”, “Equinox 2.4 oil consumption”, “Terrain oil consumption”, “Equinox low oil light”, “Equinox piston rings” and “Equinox timing chain P0008”.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Equinox 2.4 burn oil?
Usually sticking piston oil-control rings. A faulty PCV system can add to it.
How much oil use is too much?
If you add about a litre every 2,000 km or less, it is excessive.
Did GM cover the problem?
GM offered special coverage on some 2010–2013 2.4 engines. Ask a dealer with your VIN.
Can low oil damage the timing chain?
Yes. Running low stretches the chain and sets timing codes.
What oil should I use?
A dexos-approved oil of the grade in your owner’s manual.
Does a timing chain problem come from oil consumption?
Often, yes. When the oil level runs low or the oil is old, the chain tensioner and guides wear and the chain stretches, setting P0008 or P0016. Keeping the oil full protects the chain.
What does an oil consumption test involve?
The oil is changed and the level set exactly, then the car is driven a set distance and the level measured. The result, recorded with your mileage, is what a dealer or GM needs for a coverage decision.
Can I switch to a thicker oil to slow consumption?
Use the grade in your owner’s manual. A thicker oil may hide the symptom a little but doesn’t fix sticking rings and can affect the variable valve timing.
See also GM, Chevrolet & GMC Repair, Synthetic Oil Change, Rough Idle Diagnosis, P0011 Camshaft Timing.
Prefer to Have It Done? Radman Auto Repair, Etobicoke
Independent auto repair in Etobicoke since 1999. We fix what this guide covers, explain what we find, and keep the old parts for you to see.
This Service Includes
✓ Oil consumption test
✓ PCV inspection
✓ Timing code scan
✓ Oil change