GM Tells Dealers How to Fix Misfiring SUV Engines — But Only If Owners Complain First

What’s the Problem

General Motors has quietly issued a technical service bulletin (PIP6071A) addressing engine misfiring in certain 2023–2026 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain models equipped with the 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine (engine code LSD) (Anyone else remember all the oil consumption issues with the 2010-2013 Equinoxs?)

Unlike a formal recall, this bulletin instructs dealers to make repairs only if the customer reports symptoms. Owners who don’t complain may never be told that their SUV’s engine could be suffering from a known defect.

At the center of the issue is the upstream oxygen sensor (Position 1), which may provide inaccurate readings to the engine control module. This can cause engine misfires, rough idling, hesitation, loss of power, and stalling — all of which may damage the catalytic converter and increase emissions.

Allegations

The bulletin outlines a pattern of engine hesitation and misfire codes, including P0300, P2097, P2251, and P223C, often accompanied by rough idle or sluggish acceleration. Dealers are instructed to replace the upstream oxygen sensor and inspect the catalytic converter substrate for damage.

However, GM’s decision to release this information only internally — and not through a recall — raises serious transparency concerns. It effectively shifts the burden to consumers to identify and report the defect before any action is taken.

This approach allows GM to limit warranty claims and avoid public recall scrutiny, but leaves many California drivers unaware that their SUVs may already be showing signs of a serious engine fault.

Recall / TSB

According to Technical Service Bulletin PIP6071A, the affected vehicles were built before approximately May 27, 2025. The bulletin directs dealerships to perform inspections and repairs only when the customer complains of the issue.

That means unless you specifically report misfiring or loss of power, your vehicle will likely not be inspected or repaired — even if it falls within the affected production range.

GM has not issued a formal recall as of October 2025, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not yet published an open campaign.

Symptoms

Owners have reported the following symptoms in affected 2023–2026 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles:

• Check engine light with codes P0300, P2097, P2251, or P223C

• Rough idle or shaking while stopped

• Loss of power when accelerating

• Hesitation or stalling after startup or during gear changes

• Increased exhaust noise or “popping” sounds from the tailpipe

• Reduced fuel economy

Because the issue can damage the catalytic converter and affect emissions control, these symptoms may worsen over time if not repaired promptly.

How to Proceed

Document Issues: Keep copies of all repair orders and communications with your dealership. Make sure each visit clearly lists your reported symptoms (misfiring, loss of power, etc.).

Reasonable Number of Repair Attempts: If the same issue persists after several repair attempts — typically four or more — or your SUV spends more than 30 days in the shop, it may qualify as a lemon under California law.

Monitor Symptoms: If you notice new misfires, warning lights, or rough performance, stop driving the vehicle and contact your dealership immediately.

Talk to a Lemon Law Attorney, like Valero Law: If GM or your dealership fails to resolve the issue, you may be entitled to a vehicle repurchase, replacement, or significant compensation under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act.

Call Valero Law

• If you are experiencing engine hesitation, stalling, or misfiring in your Chevrolet Equinox or GMC Terrain, you are not alone — and you may have powerful legal protections.

• California law requires manufacturers like GM to stand behind their warranties. When repeated repairs fail, the California Lemon Law gives you the right to demand a repurchase or replacement of your defective vehicle.

• Call Valero Law, APC at (424) 299-4447 for a free consultation, or visit valerolaw.com to start your free Lemon Law case evaluation today.