GM is recalling the 2025 Chevy Equinox EV over an interesting safety concern: It’s too quiet

GM issued a recall on the 2025 Chevy Equinox EV because it doesn’t make enough noise when traveling at low speeds. EVs are quiet already, but with a faulty pedestrian alert system, the electric Equinox may not produce enough sound to alert those nearby. Here’s the fix.

GM issues new 2025 Chevy Equinox EV recall

One of the best things about driving an electric car is the silence on the road. Unlike gas-powered vehicles, EVs produce much less sound “waste” without the combustion process.

Especially at low speeds, EVs are almost nearly silent. They are so quiet that manufacturers are required to add external speakers or pedestrian alert systems if you will. The systems make noise to alert those around the vehicle that it’s moving or backing up.

GM’s new 2025 Chevy Equinox EV recall is over the system failing to make enough noise. The recall, issued on December 5, states the pedestrian alert system may have the wrong software.

As a result, it doesn’t make enough noise to meet the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, “Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles.” GM said that without enough noise, pedestrians may be unaware of the vehicle, which increases the risk of injury.

The recall affects 7,606 electric Equinox models, with 100% estimated to have the defect. It does not involve the gas-powered Chevy Equinox.

GM fixed the issue at its assembly plant on October 16, 2024, and issued a noncompliance recall on December 5.

If you own a 2025 Equinox EV, you can take it to a dealership, where the body control module (BCM) will be updated free of charge. Owner letters are expected to be mailed on January 27, 2025.

If you have questions, you can contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM’s recall number is N242479760. For more information, you can contact the NHTSA Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or visit the NHTSA website.

The electric Equinox EV is already off to a hot start, with over 15,000 models sold in its first full sales quarter. GM finally introduced the long-awaited LT FWD trim for the 2025MY. Starting at $34,995, GM claims the Equinox EV is “the most affordable EV in the US with +315 miles range.”

Are you ready to check out the all-electric SUV for yourself? We can help you get started. You can use our link to find the best deals on the Chevy Equinox EV at a dealer near you today.