Equinox Rear Main Seal Problems: What You Need to Know
February 20, 2025
What to Watch For and How to Prevent Costly Repairs

If you own a Chevrolet Equinox, you might have heard about rear main seal issues. Unfortunately, this is a common problem for many Equinox owners, and ignoring it can lead to costly repairs. At Babcock Auto Care, we want to help you understand what’s going on under the hood so you can take action before it becomes a bigger issue.
What is the Rear Main Seal?
The rear main seal is a crucial component that sits between the engine and the transmission. Its primary job is to keep engine oil from leaking out where the crankshaft exits the engine. If this seal fails, you could be facing major engine damage if the oil level drops too low.
Why is Rear Main Seal Failure a Common Problem for Equinox Owners?
Rear main seal problems are particularly common in Chevrolet Equinox models, especially those equipped with the 2.4L Ecotec engine. This issue is often linked to excessive crankcase pressure or a clogged PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system, which puts stress on the seal and causes it to fail.
Symptoms of a Failing Rear Main Seal
Not sure if your Equinox is showing signs of rear main seal problems? Here are some common symptoms to look out for:
- Oil Leaks: One of the most noticeable signs is an oil leak under your vehicle. If you see oil spots on your driveway or garage floor, it could be coming from the rear main seal.
- Burning Oil Smell: When oil leaks onto the exhaust, it can create a burning smell. If you notice this odor while driving or after parking, it’s worth getting checked out.
- Low Oil Level: A persistent drop in engine oil level without visible leaks could indicate the rear main seal is slowly leaking.
- Oil on the Transmission: Since the rear main seal is located between the engine and transmission, leaking oil might accumulate on the transmission housing.
- Check Engine Light: In some cases, a failing rear main seal can trigger the check engine light due to low oil pressure.
What Should You Do if You Notice These Symptoms?
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait! A leaking rear main seal can lead to severe engine damage if left unchecked. The sooner you address the issue, the better.
At Babcock Auto Care, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing rear main seal issues on Chevrolet Equinox models. Our experienced technicians will thoroughly inspect your vehicle, identify the problem, and provide a reliable solution.
Schedule an Inspection Today!
Don’t let a rear main seal problem leave you stranded or lead to costly engine repairs. If you suspect an issue with your Chevrolet Equinox, contact us at Babcock Auto Care today where we care for people and fix cars.