2012 Chevrolet Equinox Owners Manual

outside of the vehicle, use the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter. Pull the handle once from the inside to unlock the door, and a second time to open it.

Power Door Locks

Base Radio Shown, Uplevel

Similar

There is a power door lock switch on the instrument panel.

Door Locks

{ WARNING Unlocked doors can be dangerous.

. Passengers, especially

children, can easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. The chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash is increased if the doors are not locked. So, all passengers should wear safety belts properly and the doors should be locked whenever the vehicle is driven.

. Young children who get into

unlocked vehicles may be unable to get out. A child can be overcome by extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Always lock the vehicle whenever leaving it.

(Continued)

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (8,1)

2-8

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Safety Locks

Pressing the power lock switch twice or Q on the RKE transmitter twice will override the delayed locking feature and immediately lock all doors. This feature can be programmed. See “Delayed Door Lock” under Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑34.

There are power door lock switches on the front door panels. Q : Press to lock the doors. K : Press to unlock the doors. When locking the doors with a power door lock switch and a door or the liftgate is open, the doors will lock five seconds after the last door is closed. Three chimes sound to signal the delayed locking feature is in use.

Base Radio Shown, Uplevel

Similar

The rear door safety locks switch is on the instrument panel. Rear door safety locks prevent passengers from opening the rear doors from inside the vehicle.

Press { to activate the safety locks. When activated, the LED light in the switch changes to amber.

Press { again to deactivate the safety locks.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (9,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

2-9

Unlock the vehicle before opening the liftgate. Press the touchpad located in the handle of the liftgate, above the license plate, and lift up to open. Do not press the touchpad while closing the liftgate. This will cause the liftgate to be unlatched. Always close the liftgate before driving.

Doors

Liftgate (Manual)

{ WARNING

Exhaust gases can enter the vehicle if it is driven with the liftgate, trunk/hatch open, or with any objects that pass through the seal between the body and the trunk/hatch or liftgate. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide (CO) which cannot be seen or smelled. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If the vehicle must be driven with the liftgate, or trunk/hatch open:

. Close all of the windows. . Fully open the air outlets on

or under the instrument panel.

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

. Adjust the Climate Control

system to a setting that brings in only outside air and set the fan speed to the highest setting. See Climate Control System in the Index.

For more information about carbon monoxide, see Engine Exhaust on page 9‑28.

Notice: If you open the liftgate without checking for overhead obstructions such as a garage door, you could damage the liftgate or the liftgate glass. Always check to make sure the area above and behind the liftgate is clear before opening it.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (10,1)

2-10

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Liftgate (Power)

Power Liftgate Operation

{ WARNING

Exhaust gases can enter the vehicle if it is driven with the liftgate or trunk/hatch open, or with any objects that pass through the seal between the body and the trunk/hatch or liftgate. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide (CO) which cannot be seen or smelled. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If the vehicle must be driven with the liftgate or trunk/hatch open:

. Close all of the windows. . Fully open the air outlets on

or under the instrument panel.

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

. Adjust the Climate Control

system to a setting that brings in only outside air and set the fan speed to the highest setting. See “Climate Control Systems” in the Index.

. If the vehicle is equipped with

a power liftgate, disable the power liftgate function. For more information about carbon monoxide, see Engine Exhaust on page 9‑28.

On vehicles with a power liftgate, the switch is on the overhead console. The vehicle must be in P (Park) to use the power feature. The taillamps flash when the power liftgate moves.

{ WARNING

You or others could be injured if caught in the path of the power liftgate. Make sure there is no one in the way of the liftgate as it is opening and closing.

Notice: If you open the liftgate without checking for overhead obstructions such as a garage door, you could damage the liftgate or the liftgate glass. Always check to make sure the area above and behind the liftgate is clear before opening it. The power liftgate has three modes of operation. Mode selection is controlled by the interior mode switch.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (11,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

2-11

mounted cargo during power operation. The liftgate can still be fully opened manually. OFF: The liftgate only operates manually in this position. Manual operation of a liftgate that also has power operation requires more effort than a standard manual liftgate. In either the MAX or the 3/4 mode, the liftgate can be power opened and closed by:

First pressing K and then pressing and holding V on the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter until the liftgate starts moving. See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 2‑3.

. Pressing the power liftgate

button in the center of the mode switch on the overhead console, with the driver door unlocked.

. Pressing the touchpad switch on

the liftgate outside handle, with all doors unlocked, to open the liftgate.

Press and release 8 on the liftgate adjacent to the latch to close the liftgate.

Choose the power liftgate mode by turning the dial on the switch until the indicator lines up with the desired position. The vehicle must be in P (Park). The three modes are: MAX: The liftgate power opens to the full open height. 3/4: The liftgate power opens to a reduced open height that can be set by the vehicle operator. Use this setting to prevent the liftgate from opening into overhead obstructions such as a garage door or roof

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (12,1)

2-12

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Pressing any button, or the touchpad switch, while the liftgate is moving stops it. Pressing the button or RKE switch again reverses the direction. The touchpad switch will stop the liftgate from moving. There is a minimum distance that the power liftgate must already be open for the system to hold it open. If movement is stopped below that minimum, the liftgate closes. Do not force the liftgate open or closed during a power cycle. The power liftgate may be temporarily disabled under extreme temperatures or low battery conditions. If this occurs, the liftgate can still be operated manually. If you shift the transmission out of P (Park) while the power function is in progress, the liftgate power function will continue to completion. If you shift the transmission out of P (Park) and accelerate before the power liftgate latch is closed, the liftgate may reverse to the open position. Cargo could fall out of the

vehicle. Always make sure the power liftgate is closed and latched before you drive away. If you power open the liftgate and the liftgate support struts have lost pressure, the turn signals flash and a chime sounds. The liftgate stays open temporarily, then slowly closes. See your dealer for service before using the liftgate. Obstacle Detection Features If the liftgate encounters an obstacle during a power open or close cycle, a warning chime will sound and the liftgate will automatically reverse direction to the full closed or open position. After removing the obstruction, the power liftgate operation can be used again. If the liftgate encounters multiple obstacles on the same power cycle, the power function will deactivate. The MANUALLY CLOSE POWER LIFTGATE warning message in the Driver Information Center (DIC) will

display. After removing the obstructions, the liftgate will resume normal power operation. Pinch sensors are located on the side edges of the liftgate. If an object is caught between the liftgate and the body and presses against this sensor, the liftgate will reverse direction and open fully. The liftgate will remain open until it is activated again or closed manually. Power Liftgate 3/4 Mode To program the liftgate opening height: 1. Turn the liftgate switch to either

the MAX, or the 3/4 mode position and power open the liftgate.

2. Stop the liftgate movement at the desired height by pressing any liftgate switch. Manually adjust the liftgate position if required.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (13,1)

3. Press and hold the button on the liftgate adjacent to the latch until the turn signals flash and a beep sounds to indicate that the new setting is recorded.

When power opened with the 3/4 mode selected, the liftgate stops at the new set position. If you do not hear the audible and visual feedback when setting the intermediate stop position, you are attempting to set the height below the 3/4 open height minimum (approximately 1.5 m or 5 ft). The liftgate cannot be set below that minimum and the new setting will not be recorded. Manual Operation of Power Liftgate To change the liftgate to manual operation, turn the mode switch to the OFF position. With the power liftgate disabled and all of the doors unlocked, the liftgate can be manually opened and closed. Manual operation of a

Keys, Doors, and Windows

2-13

liftgate that also has power operation requires more effort than a standard manual liftgate. To open the liftgate, press the touchpad on the handle on the outside of the liftgate, and lift the gate open. To close the liftgate, use the pull cup to lower the liftgate and close. With the power liftgate disabled, the liftgate electric latch will still power latch once contact is made with the striker. Always close the liftgate before driving. If the RKE button is pressed while power operation is disabled, the turn signals flash and the liftgate will not move. The liftgate has an electric latch. If the battery is disconnected or has low voltage, the liftgate will not open. The liftgate will resume operation when the battery is reconnected and charged.

Vehicle Security This vehicle has theft-deterrent features; however, they do not make it impossible to steal.

Anti-theft Alarm System This vehicle has an anti-theft alarm system. Arming the System To arm the system, do one of the following: . Press Q on the RKE transmitter. Lock the vehicle using the key in the driver door.

The alarm automatically arms after about 30 seconds. The security light, located on the instrument panel, flashes. Press V on the RKE transmitter to open the liftgate without setting off the alarm. The system rearms when the liftgate is closed.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (14,1)

2-14

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Disarming the System To disarm the system, do one of the following: . Press K on the RKE transmitter.

Turn the ignition to ON/RUN.

. Allow the alarm to time out after

about 30 seconds and reset itself.

The alarm automatically disarms. If the system is armed and any door is unlocked without pressing K on the RKE transmitter, the alarm sounds. How to Detect a Tamper Condition If K is pressed and the horn sounds, an attempted break-in has occurred while the system was armed.

If the alarm has been activated, the THEFT ATTEMPTED message will appear on the DIC. See Key and Lock Messages on page 5‑30 for additional information.

Immobilizer See Radio Frequency Statement on page 13‑17 for information regarding Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and Industry Canada Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310.

Immobilizer Operation This vehicle has a passive theft-deterrent system. The system does not have to be manually armed or disarmed. The vehicle is automatically immobilized when the key is removed from the ignition.

The system is automatically disarmed when the vehicle is started with the correct key. The key uses a transponder that matches an immobilizer control unit in the vehicle and automatically disarms the system. Only an authorized key starts the vehicle. The vehicle may not start if the key is damaged.

The security light, located in the instrument panel cluster, comes on if there is a problem with arming or disarming the theft-deterrent system. When trying to start the vehicle, the security light comes on briefly when the ignition is turned on.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (15,1)

If the engine does not start and the security light stays on, there is a problem with the system. Turn the ignition off and try again. If the engine still does not start, and the key appears to be undamaged or the light continues to stay on, try another ignition key. If the engine does not start with the other key, the vehicle needs service. If the vehicle does start, the first key may be damaged. See your dealer who can service the theft-deterrent system and have a new key made. Do not leave the key or device that disarms or deactivates the theft-deterrent system in the vehicle.

Keys, Doors, and Windows

2-15

Exterior Mirrors

Power Mirrors

Convex Mirrors

{ WARNING

A convex mirror can make things, like other vehicles, look farther away than they really are. If you cut too sharply into the right lane, you could hit a vehicle on the right. Check the inside mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes.

The passenger side mirror is convex shaped. A convex mirror's surface is curved so more can be seen from the driver seat.

To adjust the mirrors: 1. Move the selector switch to

L (left) or R (right) to choose the driver or passenger mirror.

2. Press the arrows on the control pad to move each mirror in the desired direction.

3. Return the selector switch to the

middle position.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (16,1)

2-16

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Driving with the Blind Spot Mirror

1. When the approaching vehicle is a long distance away, the image in the main mirror is small and near the inboard edge of the mirror.

2. As the vehicle gets closer, the image in the main mirror gets larger and moves outboard.

3. As the vehicle enters the blind

zone, the image transitions from the main mirror to the blind spot mirror.

4. When the vehicle is in the blind zone, the image only appears in the blind spot mirror.

Heated Mirrors For vehicles with heated mirrors: The heated outside rearview mirrors turn on when the rear window defogger is on and help to clear fog or frost from the surface of the mirrors. 1 (Rear Window Defogger): This button is on the climate control panel. See “Rear Window Defogger” under Automatic Climate Control System on page 8‑3 for more information.

Blind Spot Mirrors The blind spot mirror is a small convex mirror built into the upper and outer corner of both outside mirrors. It can show objects that may be in the vehicle's blind zone.

Actual Mirror View

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (17,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

2-17

Using the Outside Mirror with the Blind Spot Mirror 1. Set the main mirror so that the side of the vehicle can just be seen and the blind spot mirror has an unobstructed view.

2. When checking for traffic or

before changing a lane, look at the main driver/passenger side mirror to observe traffic in the adjacent lane, behind your vehicle. Check the blind spot mirror for a vehicle in the blind zone. Then, glance over your shoulder to double check before moving slowly into the adjacent lane.

Park Tilt Mirrors If the vehicle is equipped with memory mirrors, there is an option to have the mirrors tilt down, when in R (Reverse), to more easily see the ground near the vehicle. When the vehicle is shifted to R (Reverse), both the driver and passenger mirrors will tilt downward. They will return to their previous position when the vehicle is shifted out of R (Reverse), the ignition is turned to OFF, or the vehicle is left in R (Reverse) for an extended period of time. This feature can be turned on or off. See Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑34.

Interior Mirrors

Manual Rearview Mirror Hold the inside rearview mirror in the center and move it for a clearer view behind the vehicle. Adjust the mirror to avoid glare from the headlamps behind you. Push the tab forward for daytime use and pull it for nighttime use. Vehicles with OnStar have three control buttons at the bottom of the mirror. See your dealer for more information on the system and how to subscribe to OnStar. See OnStar Overview on page 14‑1.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (18,1)

2-18

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror The vehicle may have an automatic dimming inside rearview mirror. Automatic dimming reduces the glare from the headlamps of the vehicle behind you. The dimming feature comes on and the indicator light comes on each time the vehicle is started. O : Press to turn automatic dimming on or off.

If the vehicle has a rear vision camera (RVC) the O button for turning the automatic dimming feature on or off will not be available. See Rear Vision Camera (RVC) on page 9‑45 for more information. Vehicles with OnStar® have three additional control buttons located at the bottom of the mirror. See your dealer for more information on the system and how to subscribe to OnStar. See OnStar Overview on page 14‑1. Cleaning the Mirror Do not spray glass cleaner directly on the mirror. Use a soft towel dampened with water.

Windows

{ WARNING

Leaving children, helpless adults, or pets in a vehicle with the windows closed is dangerous. They can be overcome by the extreme heat and suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child, a helpless adult, or a pet alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (19,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

2-19

Power Windows

{ WARNING

Leaving children in a vehicle with the keys is dangerous for many reasons. Children or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The windows will function and they could be seriously injured or killed if caught in the path of a closing window. Do not leave keys in a vehicle with children. When there are children in the rear seat use the window lockout button to prevent unintentional operation of the windows.

The power windows work when the ignition is in ON/RUN or ACC/ ACCESSORY, or in Retained Accessory Power (RAP). See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 9‑25. Press the front of the switch to open the window. Pull the switch up to close it.

The vehicle aerodynamics are designed to improve fuel economy performance. This may result in a pulsing sound when either rear window is down and the front windows are up. To reduce the sound, open either a front window or the sunroof (if equipped).

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (20,1)

2-20

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Window Lockout

Sun Visors

Express Down Windows Windows that have the express‐down feature allow the windows to be lowered without holding the switch. Press the window switch fully and release it to activate the express‐down feature. The express mode can be canceled at any time by briefly pressing, or pulling the switch.

Pull the sun visor down to block glare. Detach the sun visor from the center mount to pivot to the side window, or to extend along the rod, if available.

o (Window Lockout): This feature prevents the rear passenger windows from operating, except from the driver position. Press o to activate the rear window lockout switch. The LED light comes on when activated. Press o again to deactivate the lockout switch.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (21,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

2-21

Roof

Sunroof On vehicles with a sunroof, the switches used to operate it are on the headliner above the rearview mirror. The ignition must be in ON/ RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY, or in Retained Accessory Power (RAP) to operate the sunroof. See Ignition Positions on page 9‑21 and Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 9‑25.

Express-open/Express-close Press and release the front or rear of the driver side switch to express-open or express-close the sunroof. Anti-Pinch Feature If an object is in the path of the sunroof when it is closing, the anti-pinch feature detects the object and stops the sunroof from closing at the point of the obstruction. The sunroof then returns to the full-open position.

. Press and hold the front or rear of the driver side switch to open or close the sunroof. The sunshade automatically opens with the sunroof, but must be closed manually.

. Press and hold the rear of the passenger side switch to vent the sunroof. Press and hold the front of the switch to close.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (22,1)

2-22

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Dirt and debris may collect on the sunroof seal or in the track. This could cause an issue with sunroof operation, noise, or plugging the water drainage system. Periodically open the sunroof and remove any obstacles or loose debris. Wipe the sunroof seal and roof sealing area using a clean cloth, mild soap, and water. Do not remove grease from the sunroof.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (1,1)

Seats and Restraints

3-1

Child Restraints

Older Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-35
Infants and Young

Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-37
Child Restraint Systems . . . . . 3-39
Where to Put the Restraint . . . 3-41
Lower Anchors and Tethers

for Children (LATCH System) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-43

Replacing LATCH System

Parts After a Crash . . . . . . . . . 3-49

Securing Child Restraints

(Rear Seat ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-50

Securing Child Restraints

(Front Passenger Seat) . . . . 3-52

Seats and Restraints

Head Restraints

Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Front Seats

Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Power Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . 3-4
Lumbar Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Reclining Seatbacks . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Memory Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Heated Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9

Rear Seats

Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

Safety Belts

Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
How to Wear Safety Belts

Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
Lap-Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15
Safety Belt Use During

Pregnancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18
Safety Belt Extender . . . . . . . . . 3-19

Safety System Check . . . . . . . . 3-19
Safety Belt Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20
Replacing Safety Belt System

Parts after a Crash . . . . . . . . . 3-20

Airbag System

Airbag System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-21
Where Are the Airbags? . . . . . 3-23
When Should an Airbag

Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-24

What Makes an Airbag

Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26

How Does an Airbag

Restrain? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26

What Will You See after an

Airbag Inflates? . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26

Passenger Sensing

System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-28

Servicing the Airbag-Equipped

Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-32

Adding Equipment to the

Airbag-Equipped Vehicle . . . 3-33
Airbag System Check . . . . . . . . 3-34
Replacing Airbag System

Parts after a Crash . . . . . . . . . 3-34

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (2,1)

3-2

Seats and Restraints

Head Restraints

Front Seats The vehicle's front seats have head restraints in the outboard seating positions.

{ WARNING

With head restraints that are not installed and adjusted properly, there is a greater chance that occupants will suffer a neck/ spinal injury in a crash. Do not drive until the head restraints for all occupants are installed and adjusted properly.

Adjust the head restraint so that the top of the restraint is at the same height as the top of the occupant's head. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash.

The height of the head restraint can be adjusted. Pull the head restraint up to raise it. Try to move the head restraint to make sure that it is locked in place.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (3,1)

Seats and Restraints

3-3

To lower the head restraint, press the button, located on the top of the seatback, and push the head restraint down. Try to move the head restraint after the button is released to make sure that it is locked in place. The front seat outboard head restraints are not designed to be removed. Rear Seats The vehicle's rear seat has head restraints in the outboard seating positions that cannot be adjusted. Rear outboard head restraints are not designed to be removed.

Front Seats

Seat Adjustment

{ WARNING You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you do not want to. Adjust the driver seat only when the vehicle is not moving.

To adjust a manual seat: 1. Pull the handle at the front of the

seat cushion.

2. Move the seat forward or

rearward to adjust the seat position.

3. Release the handle to stop the

seat from moving.

4. Try to move the seat back and

forth to be sure it is locked in place.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (4,1)

3-4

Seats and Restraints

Power Seat Adjustment

Four‐Way Power Driver Seat

To adjust the seatback, see Reclining Seatbacks on page 3‑5. To adjust the lumbar support, see Lumbar Adjustment on page 3‑5.

Eight‐Way Power Seats

. Raise or lower the front or rear

part of the seat cushion by moving the front or rear of the control up or down.

. Raise or lower the entire seat by

moving the entire control up or down.

To adjust the seatback, see Reclining Seatbacks on page 3‑5. To adjust the lumbar support, see Lumbar Adjustment on page 3‑5.

A. Seat Position Handle B. Height Adjustment Control To adjust a power seat, if equipped: . Move the seat forward or

rearward using the handle under the front of the seat cushion (A). See Seat Adjustment on page 3‑3.

. Raise or lower the entire seat by

moving the control (B) up or down.

To adjust a power seat, if equipped: . Move the seat forward or

rearward by sliding the control forward or rearward.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (5,1)

Lumbar Adjustment

Power Lumbar

Reclining Seatbacks { WARNING

Sitting in a reclined position when the vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even when buckled up, the safety belts cannot do their job when reclined like this. The shoulder belt cannot do its job because it will not be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash, you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries. The lap belt cannot do its job either. In a crash, the belt could go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at your pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries.

(Continued)

Eight-Way Power Seat Shown,

Four-Way Similar

A. Lumbar Switch If available, press and hold the front or rear of the switch (A) to increase or decrease lumbar support. Release the switch when the seatback reaches the desired level of lumbar support.

Seats and Restraints

3-5

WARNING (Continued)

For proper protection when the vehicle is in motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit well back in the seat and wear the safety belt properly.

Do not have a seatback reclined if the vehicle is moving.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (6,1)

To return the seatback to the upright position: 1. Lift the lever fully without applying pressure to the seatback, and the seatback will return to the upright position.

2. Push and pull on the seatback to

make sure it is locked.

3-6

Seats and Restraints

Manual Reclining Seatbacks

{ WARNING You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you do not want to. Adjust the driver seat only when the vehicle is not moving.

{ WARNING

If either seatback is not locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting there. Always push and pull on the seatbacks to be sure they are locked.

To recline a manual seatback: 1. Lift the lever. 2. Move the seatback to the desired position, and then release the lever to lock the seatback in place.

3. Push and pull on the seatback to

make sure it is locked.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (7,1)

Power Reclining Seatbacks

Memory Seats

To adjust a power seatback, if available:

Tilt the top of the control rearward to recline. Tilt the top of the control forward to raise.

On vehicles with the memory feature, the “1” and “2” buttons on the outboard side of the driver seat are used to manually save and recall the driver seat and outside mirror positions. These manually stored positions are referred to as Button Memory positions.

Seats and Restraints

3-7

The vehicle will also automatically save driver seat and outside mirror positions to the current driver Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter when the ignition is turned off. These automatically stored positions are referred to as RKE Memory positions. See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 2‑3 for more information.

Storing Button Memory Positions To save positions into Button Memory: 1. Adjust the driver seat, seatback

recliner, and both outside mirrors to the desired driving positions. 2. Press and hold MEM (Memory) and “1” at the same time until a beep sounds.

3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 for a

second driver using “2.”

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (8,1)

3-8

Seats and Restraints

Recalling Button Memory Positions To recall the manually saved Button Memory positions, press and hold “1” or “2.” The driver seat and outside mirrors move to the positions stored to those buttons when pressed. Releasing “1” or “2” before the stored positions are reached stops the recall. If something has blocked the driver seat while recalling a memory position, the recall may stop. Remove the obstruction; then press and hold the appropriate manual control for the memory item that is not recalling for two seconds. Try recalling the memory position again by pressing the appropriate memory button. If the memory position is still not recalling, see your dealer for service.

This feature is turned on or off using the vehicle personalization menu. See “Memory Remote Recall” under Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑34 for more information. To stop recall movement, press any of the memory, power mirror, or power seat controls. If something has blocked the driver seat while recalling a memory position, the recall may stop. Remove the obstruction; then press and hold the appropriate manual control for the memory item that is not recalling for two seconds. Try recalling the memory position again by opening the driver door and pressing the RKE K button. If the memory position is still not recalling, see your dealer for service.

Recalling RKE Memory Positions (Memory Remote Recall) The Memory Remote Recall feature can recall the driver seat and outside mirrors to previously stored RKE Memory positions when entering the vehicle. Every time the ignition is turned off, the positions of the driver seat and outside mirrors are automatically stored to the RKE transmitter that was used to start the vehicle. These positions are called RKE Memory positions and may be different than the previously mentioned Button Memory positions saved to the “1” or “2” buttons. To automatically recall RKE Memory positions, unlock the driver door with the RKE transmitter and open the driver door. If the driver door is already open, pressing the RKE transmitter K button will also activate the RKE Memory recall. The driver seat and outside mirrors will move to the previously saved RKE Memory positions.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (9,1)

Seats and Restraints

3-9

Heated Front Seats { WARNING

If you cannot feel temperature change or pain to the skin, the seat heater may cause burns even at low temperatures. To reduce the risk of burns, people with such a condition should use care when using the seat heater, especially for long periods of time. Do not place anything on the seat that insulates against heat, such as a blanket, cushion, cover, or similar item. This may cause the seat heater to overheat. An overheated seat heater may cause a burn or may damage the seat.

Easy Exit Driver Seat This feature moves the seat rearward allowing the driver more room to exit the vehicle. To activate, turn the ignition off and open the driver door. If the driver door is already open, turning the ignition off will activate the easy exit driver seat. This feature can be turned on or off using the vehicle personalization menu. See “Easy Exit Driver Seat” under Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑34 for more information. To stop recall movement, press one of the memory or power seat controls. If something has blocked the driver seat while recalling the exit position, the recall may stop. Remove the obstruction; then press and hold the power seat control rearward for two seconds. Try recalling the exit position again. If the exit position is still not recalling, see your dealer for service.

Uplevel Climate Control System

Shown, Base Similar

If available, the buttons are near the climate controls. To operate, the ignition must be in ON/RUN. Press z or J to heat the driver or passenger seat cushion and seatback. Press the button once for the highest setting. With each press of the button, the heated seat will change to the next lower setting, and then the off setting. Three lights indicate the highest setting, and one light indicates the lowest.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (10,1)

3-10

Seats and Restraints

The passenger seat may take longer to heat up.

Remote Start Heated Seats When it is cold outside, the heated seats can be programmed to turn on automatically during a remote vehicle start. The heated seats will be canceled when the ignition is turned on. Press the heated seat button to use the heated seats after the vehicle is started. The heated seat button lights will not turn on during a remote start. The temperature of an unoccupied seat may be reduced. To program the heated seat feature to enabled, see “Remote Start Auto Heat Seats” under Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑34 for more information.

Rear Seats

Split Folding Seatbacks With this feature, either side of the rear seatback can be folded down for more cargo space.

{ WARNING

If either seatback is not locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting there. Always push and pull on the seatbacks to be sure they are locked.

{ WARNING

A safety belt that is improperly routed, not properly attached, or twisted will not provide the protection needed in a crash. The person wearing the belt could be seriously injured. After raising the rear seatback, always check to be sure that the safety belts are properly routed and attached, and are not twisted.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (11,1)

To fold the seatback down: Notice: Folding a rear seat with the safety belts still fastened may cause damage to the seat or the safety belts. Always unbuckle the safety belts and return them to their normal stowed position before folding a rear seat. 1. Unbuckle the rear safety belts

and place the front seatbacks in the upright position. See Reclining Seatbacks on page 3‑5.

Seats and Restraints

3-11

Keep the seatback in the upright, locked position when not in use. To recline the seatback: 1. Lift and hold the lever on top of

the seatback.

2. Tilt the seatback rearward, then

release the lever when the seatback is in the desired position.

To slide the entire seat forward or rearward: 1. Lift and hold the release bar

under the front of the seat cushion to unlock the seat.

2. Slide the seat to the desired

position.

3. Release the bar. 4. Try to move the seat back and

forth to ensure the seat is locked into place.

2. Lift the lever on the top of the

seatback.

3. Fold the seatback forward.

The filler panel behind the seat will fold with the seatback to span the gap between the rear of the seat and the cargo area, creating a flat load floor. Do not lift the filler panel.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (12,1)

3-12

Seats and Restraints

Safety Belts This section of the manual describes how to use safety belts properly. It also describes some things not to do with safety belts.

{ WARNING

Do not let anyone ride where a safety belt cannot be worn properly. In a crash, if you or your passenger(s) are not wearing safety belts, injuries can be much worse than if you are wearing safety belts. You can be seriously injured or killed by hitting things inside the vehicle harder or by being ejected from the vehicle. In addition, anyone who is not buckled up can strike other passengers in the vehicle.

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, passengers riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow passengers to ride in any area of the vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Always wear a safety belt, and check that all passenger(s) are restrained properly too.

This vehicle has indicators as a reminder to buckle the safety belts. See Safety Belt Reminders on page 5‑12 for additional information.

Why Safety Belts Work

When riding in a vehicle, you travel as fast as the vehicle does. If the vehicle stops suddenly, you keep going until something stops you. It could be the windshield, the instrument panel, or the safety belts!

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (13,1)

Q: If my vehicle has airbags, why

should I have to wear safety belts?

A: Airbags are supplemental

systems only; so they work with safety belts — not instead of them. Whether or not an airbag is provided, all occupants still have to buckle up to get the most protection. Also, in nearly all states and in all Canadian provinces, the law requires wearing safety belts.

When you wear a safety belt, you and the vehicle slow down together. There is more time to stop because you stop over a longer distance and, when worn properly, your strongest bones take the forces from the safety belts. That is why wearing safety belts makes such good sense. Questions and Answers About Safety Belts Q: Will I be trapped in the vehicle after a crash if I am wearing a safety belt?

A: You could be — whether you are

wearing a safety belt or not. Your chance of being conscious during and after a crash, so you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if you are belted.

Seats and Restraints

3-13

How to Wear Safety Belts Properly This section is only for people of adult size. There are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and infants. If a child will be riding in the vehicle, see Older Children on page 3‑35 or Infants and Young Children on page 3‑37. Follow those rules for everyone's protection. It is very important for all occupants to buckle up. Statistics show that unbelted people are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (14,1)

3-14

Seats and Restraints

There are important things to know about wearing a safety belt properly.

. Sit up straight and always keep

your feet on the floor in front of you.

. Always use the correct buckle

for your seating position.

. Wear the lap part of the belt low

and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones and you would be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force on your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries.

. Wear the shoulder belt over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The shoulder belt locks if there is a sudden stop or crash.

{ WARNING

You can be seriously injured, or even killed, by not wearing your safety belt properly. . Never allow the lap or

shoulder belt to become loose or twisted.

. Never wear the shoulder belt

under both arms or behind your back.

. Never route the lap or shoulder belt over an armrest.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (15,1)

Seats and Restraints

3-15

4.

If equipped with a shoulder belt height adjuster, move it to the height that is right for you. See “Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster” later in this section for instructions on use and important safety information.

3. Push the latch plate into the

buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt is not long enough, see Safety Belt Extender on page 3‑19. Position the release button on the buckle so that the safety belt could be quickly unbuckled if necessary.

5. To make the lap part tight, pull

up on the shoulder belt.

Lap-Shoulder Belt All seating positions in the vehicle have a lap-shoulder belt. The following instructions explain how to wear a lap-shoulder belt properly. 1. Adjust the seat, if the seat is adjustable, so you can sit up straight. To see how, see “Seats” in the Index.

2. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Do not let it get twisted. The lap-shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly. If the shoulder portion of a passenger belt is pulled out all the way, the child restraint locking feature may be engaged. If this happens, let the belt go back all the way and start again.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (16,1)

3-16

Seats and Restraints

Adjust the height so the shoulder portion of the belt is on the shoulder and not falling off of it. The belt should be close to, but not contacting, the neck. Improper shoulder belt height adjustment could reduce the effectiveness of the safety belt in a crash. See How to Wear Safety Belts Properly on page 3‑13.

To unlatch the belt, push the button on the buckle. Before a door is closed, be sure the safety belt is out of the way. If a door is slammed against a safety belt, damage can occur to both the safety belt and the vehicle. Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster The vehicle has a shoulder belt height adjuster for the driver and right front passenger seating positions.

Move the height adjuster up to the desired position by pushing up on the height adjuster.

After the height adjuster is set to the desired position, try to move it down without pressing the release button (A) to make sure it has locked into position. Press the release button to lower the height adjuster. Safety Belt Pretensioners This vehicle has safety belt pretensioners for front outboard occupants. Although the safety belt pretensioners cannot be seen, they are part of the safety belt assembly. They can help tighten the safety belts during the early stages of a moderate to severe frontal and near frontal crash if the threshold conditions for pretensioner activation are met. And, if the vehicle has side impact airbags, safety belt pretensioners can help tighten the safety belts in a side crash or a rollover event.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (17,1)

Pretensioners work only once. If the pretensioners are activated in a crash, the pretensioners and possibly other parts of the safety belt system will need to be replaced. See Replacing Safety Belt System Parts after a Crash on page 3‑20. Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides This vehicle may have rear shoulder belt comfort guides. If not, they are available through your dealer. The guides may provide added safety belt comfort for older children who have outgrown booster seats and for some adults. When installed and properly adjusted, the comfort guide positions the belt away from the neck and head.

Seats and Restraints

3-17

There is one guide for each outside passenger position in the rear seat. Here is how to install a comfort guide to the safety belt:

2. Place the guide over the belt,

and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide.

1. Remove the guide from its

storage pocket on the side of the seatback.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (18,1)

3-18

Seats and Restraints

To remove and store the comfort guide, squeeze the belt edges together so that the safety belt can be removed from the guide. Slide the guide back into its storage pocket located on the side of the seatback.

Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they do not wear safety belts.

WARNING (Continued)

and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces.

3. The belt should not be twisted

and it should lie flat. The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top.

{ WARNING

A safety belt that is not properly worn may not provide the protection needed in a crash. The person wearing the belt could be seriously injured. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder

(Continued)

4. Buckle, position, and release the

safety belt as described previously in this section. Make sure the shoulder portion of the belt is on the shoulder and not falling off of it. The belt should be close to, but not contacting, the neck.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (19,1)

Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle's safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt is not long enough, your dealer will order you an extender. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. To help avoid personal injury, do not let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit. The extender has been designed for adults. Never use it for securing child seats. To wear it, attach it to the regular safety belt. For more information, see the instruction sheet that comes with the extender.

Seats and Restraints

3-19

Safety System Check Now and then, check that the safety belt reminder light, safety belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors, and anchorages are all working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job. See your dealer to have it repaired. Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away. Make sure the safety belt reminder light is working. See Safety Belt Reminders on page 5‑12 for more information. Keep safety belts clean and dry. See Safety Belt Care on page 3‑20.

A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and the lap portion should be worn as low as possible, below the rounding, throughout the pregnancy. The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it is more likely that the fetus will not be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (20,1)

3-20

Seats and Restraints

Safety Belt Care Keep belts clean and dry. { WARNING

Do not bleach or dye safety belts. It may severely weaken them. In a crash, they might not be able to provide adequate protection. Clean safety belts only with mild soap and lukewarm water.

Replacing Safety Belt System Parts after a Crash

{ WARNING

A crash can damage the safety belt system in the vehicle. A damaged safety belt system may not properly protect the person using it, resulting in serious injury or even death in a crash. To help make sure the safety belt systems are working properly after a crash, have them inspected and any necessary replacements made as soon as possible.

After a minor crash, replacement of safety belts may not be necessary. But the safety belt assemblies that were used during any crash may have been stressed or damaged. See your dealer to have the safety belt assemblies inspected or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the safety belt system was not being used at the time of the crash. Have the safety belt pretensioners checked if the vehicle has been in a crash, or if the airbag readiness light stays on after you start the vehicle or while you are driving. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 5‑13.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (21,1)

For frontal airbags, the word AIRBAG will appear on the middle part of the steering wheel for the driver and on the instrument panel for the right front passenger. With seat-mounted side impact airbags, the word AIRBAG will appear on the side of the seatback closest to the door. With roof-rail airbags, the word AIRBAG will appear along the trim. Airbags are designed to supplement the protection provided by safety belts. Even though today's airbags are also designed to help reduce the risk of injury from the force of an inflating bag, all airbags must inflate very quickly to do their job.

Airbag System The vehicle has the following airbags: . A frontal airbag for the driver. . A frontal airbag for the right front

passenger.

. A seat-mounted side impact

airbag for the driver.

. A seat-mounted side impact

airbag for the right front passenger.

. A roof-rail airbag for the driver

and the passenger seated directly behind the driver.

. A roof-rail airbag for the right

front passenger and the passenger seated directly behind the right front passenger.

All of the airbags in the vehicle will have the word AIRBAG embossed in the trim or on an attached label near the deployment opening.

Seats and Restraints

3-21

Here are the most important things to know about the airbag system:

{ WARNING

You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you are not wearing your safety belt, even with airbags. Airbags are designed to work with safety belts, not replace them. Also, airbags are not designed to inflate in every crash. In some crashes safety belts are the only restraint. See When Should an Airbag Inflate? on page 3‑24. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce the chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Airbags are “supplemental restraints” to the safety belts. Everyone in the vehicle should wear a safety belt properly, whether or not there is an airbag for that person.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (22,1)

3-22

Seats and Restraints

{ WARNING

{ WARNING

Because airbags inflate with great force and faster than the blink of an eye, anyone who is up against, or very close to any airbag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Do not sit unnecessarily close to any airbag, as you would be if sitting on the edge of the seat or leaning forward. Safety belts help keep you in position before and during a crash. Always wear a safety belt, even with airbags. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle. Occupants should not lean on or sleep against the door or side windows in seating positions with seat-mounted side impact airbags and/or roof-rail airbags.

Children who are up against, or very close to, any airbag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Airbags plus lap-shoulder belts offer protection for adults and older children, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle's safety belt system nor its airbag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide. Always secure children properly in the vehicle. To read how, see Older Children on page 3‑35 or Infants and Young Children on page 3‑37.

There is an airbag readiness light on the instrument panel cluster, which shows the airbag symbol. The system checks the airbag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 5‑13 for more information.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (23,1)

Where Are the Airbags?

Seats and Restraints

3-23

The driver frontal airbag is in the middle of the steering wheel.

The right front passenger frontal airbag is in the instrument panel on the passenger side.

Driver Side Shown, Passenger

Side Similar

The seat-mounted side impact airbags for the driver and right front passenger are in the side of the seatbacks closest to the door.

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (24,1)

3-24

Seats and Restraints

WARNING (Continued)

or even death. The path of an inflating airbag must be kept clear. Do not put anything between an occupant and an airbag, and do not attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other airbag covering. Do not use seat accessories that block the inflation path of a seat-mounted side impact airbag. Never secure anything to the roof of a vehicle with roof-rail airbags by routing a rope or tie‐down through any door or window opening. If you do, the path of an inflating roof-rail airbag will be blocked.

When Should an Airbag Inflate? Frontal airbags are designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes to help reduce the potential for severe injuries mainly to the driver's or right front passenger's head and chest. However, they are only designed to inflate if the impact exceeds a predetermined deployment threshold. Deployment thresholds are used to predict how severe a crash is likely to be in time for the airbags to inflate and help restrain the occupants. Whether the frontal airbags will or should deploy is not based on how fast your vehicle is traveling. It depends largely on what you hit, the direction of the impact, and how quickly your vehicle slows down.

Driver Side Shown, Passenger

Side Similar

The roof-rail airbags for the driver, right front passenger, and second row outboard passengers are in the ceiling above the side windows.

{ WARNING If something is between an occupant and an airbag, the airbag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into that person causing severe injury (Continued)

Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual - 2012

Black plate (25,1)

Frontal airbags may inflate at different crash speeds. For example:

If the vehicle hits a stationary object, the airbags could inflate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle hits a moving object. If the vehicle hits an object that deforms, the airbags could inflate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle hits an object that does not deform. If the vehicle hits a narrow object (like a pole), the airbags could inflate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle hits a wide object (like a wall). If the vehicle goes into an object at an angle, the airbags could inflate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle goes straight into the object.

Thresholds can also vary with specific vehicle design.

Seats and Restraints

3-25

Frontal airbags are not intended to inflate during vehicle rollovers, rear impacts, or in many side impacts. In addition, the vehicle has dual-stage frontal airbags. Dual-stage airbags adjust the restraint according to crash severity. The vehicle has electronic frontal sensors, which help the sensing system distinguish between a moderate frontal impact and a more severe frontal impact. For moderate frontal impacts, dual-stage airbags inflate at a level less than full deployment. For more severe frontal impacts, full deployment occurs. The vehicle has seat-mounted side impact and roof-rail airbags. See Airbag System on page 3‑21. Seat-mounted side impact and roof-rail airbags are intended to inflate in moderate to severe side crashes. In addition, these roof-rail airbags are intended to inflate during a rollover or in a severe frontal impact. Seat-mounted side