Certain 2025–2026 Chevrolet Equinox EVs have been recalled because their pedestrian warning sounds may not play at the correct volume when driving at low speeds.
Pedestrian alert systems are required by federal law because electric vehicles are typically much quieter than gasoline-powered vehicles, which produce engine noise that pedestrians can hear more easily.
Electric vehicles must emit specific sound cues to alert pedestrians when they accelerate or decelerate. In these Equinox EVs, the sound alerts do not adjust properly, making it harder for pedestrians to hear if the vehicle is speeding up or slowing down. This can increase the risk of injury.
As a result, these vehicles do not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 141. This may increase safety risks in parking lots, residential areas, school zones and other low-speed driving environments where many pedestrians might be present.
Chevy Equinox EV Pedestrian Alert Recall Details
- NHTSA ID: 25V878000
- GM Recall Number: N252530690
- Population: 81,177
- Vehicle Models: Certain 2025–2026 Chevrolet Equinox EVs
- Safety Defect: The pedestrian alert sound system does not make the required volume changes when the vehicle accelerates from a stop to 10 km/h (6.2 miles per hour).
- Recall Remedy: General Motors will update the body control module software free of charge. Vehicles capable of receiving over-the-air software updates will receive the update remotely, while other vehicles will have the update performed at the dealership.
- Notification Schedule: Recall notices are expected to be mailed February 2, 2026.
Pedestrian Sound Alert Requirements Explained
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 141 requires hybrid and electric vehicles to emit warning sounds that allow a pedestrian to hear when a vehicle is moving, speeding up or slowing down at low speeds.
The pedestrian alert is required to increase by 3 decibels (dB) – the minimum noticeable difference to the human ear – across three different speed intervals from a full stop to 30 km/h.
| Minimum Required Sound Changes by Speed | |
| Complete stop to 10 km/h (6.2mph) | 3 decibels (dB) |
| 10 km/h to 20 km/h (12.4mph) | 3 decibels (dB) |
| 20 km/h to 30 km/h (18.6mph) | 3 decibels (dB) |
What Should I Do With My Chevy Equinox EV?
Start by checking your vehicle’s recall status using your VIN. If your vehicle is included in the recall, or if you notice issues with its pedestrian alert system, schedule a repair service with your local Chevrolet dealership as soon as possible.
Some owners may receive the update automatically without visiting a dealership. Confirm if your vehicle is capable of receiving over-the-air software updates.
According to documents submitted by General Motors to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, all vehicles included in GM Recall N252530690 are covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. The recall remedy will be performed at no cost to the owner.
Chevy Equinox EV Recall: Contact Information
If you have not received a recall notification yet and want to know whether your vehicle is affected, you can check your recall status using the options below.
- GM Customer Service: Call 1-800-222-1020 and provide your Vehicle Identification Number to the representative.
- Chevrolet Recalls: Enter your VIN to check for recalls or warranty information on your Chevrolet vehicle.
- NHTSA Recall Search: Enter your VIN or your State License Plate number to search for open recalls on a vehicle from any manufacturer.
To address an ongoing vehicle problem, schedule a service with your nearest Chevrolet service dealership.
References
- (2025, December 18). Insufficient Pedestrian Warning/FMVSS 141. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. https://www.nhtsa.gov/?nhtsaId=25V878000
- (2025, December 18). Part 573 Safety Recall Report 25V878. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2025/RCLRPT-25V878-8755.pdf
- 49 CFR 571.141 — Standard No. 141; Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles. (2024). Ecfr.gov. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-V/part-571/subpart-B/section-571.141
