General Motors is recalling more than 80,000 Chevrolet Equinox electric vehicles after federal regulators determined the models may not meet required pedestrian‑alert sound standards, creating a potential safety risk for people walking near the vehicles.
Defective Alert System Could Leave Pedestrians Unaware
According to a notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), certain 2025 and 2026 model‑year Equinox EVs were found to have incorrect software calibration in their pedestrian alert sound system.
The flaw may prevent the vehicle from producing the required exterior sound as it accelerates from a stop up to 6.2 mph, making it harder for pedestrians to hear whether the vehicle is speeding up or slowing down.
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 141 requires electric and hybrid vehicles to emit minimum sound levels at low speeds to compensate for their quieter operation.
Issue Discovered During Internal Testing
GM engineers identified the problem during internal testing last fall. A report submitted through the company’s Speak Up for Safety program revealed that a 2025 Equinox EV failed to meet federal sound‑change requirements during low‑speed movement.
A subsequent investigation found that both the 2025 and 2026 software versions may fall short of the required volume‑change threshold. The calibration differs from both the 2024 model and the fix applied to earlier vehicles under a previous recall.
No Crashes or Injuries Reported
NHTSA said there have been no accidents or injuries linked to the defect. Drivers also do not receive any warning that the system is malfunctioning.
Recall Details and Next Steps
GM issued the recall on Dec. 11, affecting an estimated 81,177 vehicles built between July 2024 and December 2025.
The company plans to correct the issue by reprogramming the body control module software, which can be completed at dealerships or delivered as an over‑the‑air update for owners who have opted in to remote updates.
Dealers were notified on Dec. 18, and owner letters are scheduled to be mailed beginning Feb. 2, 2026
