The problem
General motors is recalling certain model year 2010 Chevrolet equinox and GMC terrain vehicles for failing to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 103, "windshield defrosting and defogging systems and with federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 101, controls and displays". The software in the center instrument panel can cause the heating, air conditioning, defrost, and radio controls, as well as the panel illumination to become inoperative.
The risk
Driving without a functioning defrost system can decrease your visibility under certain driving conditions and could result in a crash without warning.
The fix
Dealers will replace the computer module in the center instrument panel free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during January 2010. Owners May contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, GMC at 1-866-996-9463 or at www.gmownercenter.com.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 09V-489 (09V489000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 090298 |
| Manufacturer | General Motors, LLC |
| Component | Visibility › Defroster/defogger/HVAC system |
| Report date | December 23, 2009 |
| Owners notified | January 12, 2010 |
| Vehicles affected | 59,031 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the a/c & heater
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 09V-489 repair free?
Yes. Chevrolet dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the computer module in the center instrument panel free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during January 2010. Owners May contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, GMC at 1-866-996-9463 or at www.gmownercenter.com.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 59,031 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.