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2020 Equinox 1.5L Turbo Transmission Hesitation & Hard Shifts

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 1:39 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Chevrolet Equinox LT

My 2020 Chevrolet Equinox LT with the 1.5L turbo engine is acting strange with its transmission. It has about 60,000 miles on it, and recently I've noticed a significant hesitation when accelerating from a stop.

It feels like the transmission is struggling to engage the gear, and then when it finally does, it often results in a hard, clunky shift, especially between 1st and 2nd gear. Sometimes, it also feels like it's 'hunting' for gears at highway speeds.

There's no check engine light on, which makes it harder to diagnose. Has anyone else experienced transmission issues with their 2020 Equinox 1.5T? What could be causing this?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 1:39 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Transmission hesitation and hard shifts on your 2020 Chevrolet Equinox 1.5L Turbo can be concerning, especially without a Check Engine Light. These symptoms often point to issues within the transmission itself or its control systems.

Common Causes:

  • Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid: The most common and easiest to check. Low fluid levels can cause pressure problems, leading to slipping and hard shifts. Contaminated fluid (dark, burnt smell) indicates internal wear.
  • Transmission Solenoids: These electronic valves control fluid flow within the transmission to engage gears. Faulty or sticking solenoids can cause delayed or harsh shifts.
  • Transmission Control Module (TCM): The TCM manages the transmission's operations. A software glitch or a failing module can lead to incorrect shift timing and engagement.
  • Valve Body Issues: The valve body directs hydraulic fluid to different clutch packs. Wear or blockages in the valve body can cause shifting problems.
  • Clutch Pack Wear: Over time, the internal clutch packs can wear out, leading to slipping and hesitation.

Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. Check Transmission Fluid: Consult your owner's manual for the correct procedure to check the transmission fluid level and condition. Note that many modern transmissions are 'sealed for life' or require specific diagnostic tools for proper level checks. If it's low or looks burnt, it needs immediate attention.
  2. Scan for Pending Codes: Even without a Check Engine Light, a professional scan tool can sometimes pull 'pending' or 'history' codes related to the transmission control module that a generic OBD-II scanner might miss.
  3. Software Update: Sometimes, a simple software update for the TCM from a Chevrolet dealership can resolve shifting anomalies.

When to See a Shop:

It's highly recommended to have your Equinox inspected by a qualified transmission specialist or a Chevrolet dealership if:

  • The transmission fluid is low, burnt, or you're unsure how to check it.
  • The issue persists after checking fluid levels.
  • You notice any new noises coming from the transmission.
  • The hesitation or hard shifts become more frequent or severe. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more extensive and costly transmission repairs.
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