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2020 Equinox Stalling at Low Speeds - No Codes

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 1:38 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Chevrolet Equinox LT

My 2020 Chevrolet Equinox LT (2.0L Turbo) has developed a really frustrating issue. Sometimes, usually when I'm slowing down, coming to a stop, or at a stop light, the engine just completely dies. It starts right back up immediately, but it's really unnerving and feels unsafe.

No check engine light has come on, and my cheap OBD-II scanner shows no pending or stored codes. What should I be looking for? It feels like it might be fuel-related or maybe something with the idle control, but without codes, I'm at a loss.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 1:38 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Stalling without a check engine light or codes can be particularly tricky to diagnose, as the issue might be intermittent or not severe enough to trigger a fault code. Here are common culprits for your 2020 Equinox:

  1. Fuel Delivery Issues:

    • Weak Fuel Pump: The pump might be failing intermittently, especially when demand is low (at idle). While it might deliver enough pressure to start, it could falter under specific conditions. Listen for an unusual whine from the fuel tank when turning the key.
    • Clogged Fuel Filter: While less common on newer vehicles with in-tank filters, a partially clogged filter could restrict fuel flow.
    • Faulty Fuel Pressure Sensor: An inaccurate reading could cause the engine control module (ECM) to incorrectly adjust fuel delivery.

  2. Air/Idle Control Issues:

    • Dirty Throttle Body: Carbon buildup on the throttle plate can restrict airflow at idle, causing the engine to stall. Cleaning the throttle body can often resolve this.
    • Vacuum Leaks: Unmetered air entering the engine can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to stalling. Check all vacuum lines for cracks or disconnections.

  3. Sensor Malfunctions (without codes):

    • Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) or Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP): These sensors tell the ECM the position of the crankshaft and camshaft. If they intermittently fail, the ECM loses crucial timing information, causing the engine to shut down. Sometimes, these can fail without immediately setting a code if the failure is brief and intermittent.
    • Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF): A dirty or failing MAF sensor can send incorrect air readings, leading to an improper air/fuel mixture and stalling.

When to see a shop: Given that there are no codes, a professional diagnosis is highly recommended. A mechanic can perform live data monitoring with an advanced scan tool to observe sensor readings (like fuel pressure, MAF, and CKP/CMP signals) during driving conditions where the stall occurs. They can also perform specific tests for fuel pressure, vacuum integrity, and check for any pending or historical codes that a basic scanner might miss. This will help pinpoint the exact cause of the intermittent stalling.

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