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Could you turn it down? No, seriously. It might be too loud for the 2021 Chevy Equinox. This is a pretty unique problem for the Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain. The window systems in these SUVs might not function under loud music, causing the windows to lower automatically. 

The 2021 Chevy Equinox doesn’t like it loud 

The 2021 Chevy Equinox driving in a tunnel
2021 Chevy Equinox | Chevy

We wish we could tell you to crank your 2018 – 2021 Chevy Equinox or GMC Terrain to 1, but that could cause a problem. According to Motor1, General Motors released a technical service bulletin (TSB) that says the window systems in these models may not withstand loud music. As a result, the audio may automatically lower. 

The Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain models may lose their memory function due to excessive bass vibrating from the speaker systems. Then the windows may drop by a quarter of an inch. If this occurs, an “Open Then Close Driver Window” message may illuminate on the digital gauge cluster. 

This isn’t being classified as a recall because Having your window automatically open a little isn’t exactly a safety risk. But it could be frustrating. Imagine just trying to relax and rock out during your commute, then having the wind in your hair. Plus, unwanted elements may enter your cabin with the windows open, such as pollen or insects. 

Is the Chevy Equinox worth buying? 

Aside from having a vibrating bass, the 2021 Chevy Equinox is an excellent SUV option to consider. It begins at about $23,800 and has sufficient power. The 1.5-liter engine pumps out 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. 

The Equinox does alright on fuel. It gets an EPA estimated 26 mpg in the city and up to 31 mpg on the highway. Front-wheel drive comes standard, but you can equip all-wheel drive, which may lower those figures by one or two miles per gallon. 

Car and Driver noted that the acceleration is a little sluggish, but the handling is athletic, and the steering is responsive. The ride is a little bumpy, but the 19-inch wheels may be a contributing factor. 17 or 18-inch wheels come standard. 

Drivers and passengers enjoy the spacious interior with a luxurious feel and simple layout. There are plenty of cup holders and a deep center console storage bin. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard with the 7-inch or optional 8-inch touchscreen. 

Is the 2021 GMC Terrain a good SUV? 

Yes, like the 2021 Chevy Equinox, the 2021 GMC Terrain is also a great option. It has an MSRP of about $25,000. It has the same base engine as the Equinox, but you can also upgrade to the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine for 250 hp. 

According to Car and Driver, the GMC Terrain can tow up to 3,500 lbs. The GMC Terrain gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and up to 30 mpg on the highway. 

A silver 2021 GMC Terrain SLT crossover SUV on a city street
2021 GMC Terrain SLT | General Motors

Driving the Terrain provides a sporty and comfortable experience. The suspension dampens bumps in the road for a smooth ride, and the Terrain is pretty agile. It can maneuver well in tight city areas. 

Car and Driver was let down by the interior quality, but it is spacious and comfortable. It provides class-competitive cargo space with plenty of storage bins for organizing small items. The center console controls may take some getting used to at first. 

Like the Equinox, the Terrain also comes with a standard seven-inch touchscreen with an available eight-inch unit. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot come standard. Plus, the Denali trim gets standard navigation.

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