I Traded My EV6 For A 2026 Chevy Equinox EV And After Just One Week I'm Taking It To The Dealer For The Dreaded Telematics Module Issue While They Claim The Dashboard Glare Isn't Covered

The electric vehicle market is no longer a novelty. It's a maturing landscape where owners are becoming increasingly savvy, often "shuffling" between models as they refine their priorities and seek out the best combination of features, efficiency, and value. The days of being a brand loyalist are giving way to a more pragmatic approach, where the right car for today might not be the right car for tomorrow. This trend is perfectly encapsulated by the experience of Richard Reyes, a new owner of a 2026 Chevy Equinox EV who recently traded in his Kia EV6.

Reyes's decision to make the switch was driven by a deal that was simply "too good to pass on," a sentiment that many car buyers can relate to. The allure of a new vehicle, combined with attractive tax credits, can be a powerful motivator. However, as Reyes quickly discovered, the transition to a new EV isn't always seamless.

“New owner of a 2026 EQEV fwd.

Took advantage of the tax credit and traded in my EV6. Although I will miss the fast charging speeds, this deal was too good to pass on.

After just a week of ownership, I will be taking it in for the dreaded telematics module. The dealer is certain this is the issue, although they have not diagnosed the issue in person.

I will also be getting window tint and floor mats that the dealer threw in for free. Anything else I should get done while the car is in for service?

Also, for those of you asking, the dash still shows a glare, but the dealer says they don’t have documentation of 26-year models being part of the bulletin. Picture down in the comments.”

This immediate need for service highlights a common frustration among new EV owners. The "dreaded telematics module" issue is a known problem, and the fact that the dealer is "certain" of the diagnosis without an in-person inspection suggests that it's a frequent occurrence. This is not an isolated incident, as other EV owners have reported similar issues with telematics and other electronic components. The ongoing issue with the dashboard glare, which the dealer is not yet authorized to fix on the 2026 model, is another example of how early adopters often have to contend with known problems that have yet to be fully resolved by the manufacturer.

Early Adoption Challenges

• Software and connectivity problems that affect infotainment, navigation, and remote vehicle access features often require module replacement.
• Known issues like dashboard glare that have documented fixes for older models but no approved solutions for newer model years.
• Service departments may lack experience with specific EV problems, leading to diagnostic uncertainty and extended repair times.
• Specialized EV components that may have longer lead times compared to traditional automotive parts, extending service visits.

These kinds of issues can be a source of significant frustration, as other Equinox EV owners have discovered a range of problems from heating and AC failure to peeling interiors.

The Efficiency Equation: Trading Speed for Miles

Despite these initial hiccups, Reyes's experience also sheds light on the nuanced trade-offs that EV owners make. When asked what he didn't like about his previous Kia EV6, his answer was surprisingly positive.

“Honestly, there isn't much I didn't like about the EV6. I initially had a hard time planning road trips due to the bad route planning and the map integration. This, however, was solved by using ABRP, and the fast charging definitely made up for the manual planning time. The only other thing that I disliked was the efficiency; I was only getting around 3.1 mi/kWh, which meant, in theory, a full battery would only take me 239.9 miles. Although this was plenty for most people, I was having to charge to 90% most days for my long commute. I'm hoping the equinox is more efficient over time. So far I've been seeing well over 3.5 mi/kWh in the short week I've had it.”

This is a fascinating insight into the mind of an experienced EV owner. While the EV6's fast charging was a major plus, its lower efficiency was a daily concern for his long commute. 

The Equinox EV, on the other hand, is already demonstrating superior efficiency, which could translate to more convenience and lower charging costs over time. This willingness to trade charging speed for better mi/kWh is a calculated decision that reflects a deep understanding of his own driving habits and needs. The quest for efficiency is a common theme among EV owners, with some drivers finding that slowing down can save a significant amount of time on long trips.

Key Differences: Equinox EV vs. Kia EV6

• Kia EV6 offers significantly faster DC fast charging capabilities, reducing time spent at charging stations during long trips.
• The Equinox EV demonstrates better energy efficiency, potentially extending daily driving range and reducing charging frequency for commuters.
• The EV6's native navigation system lacks seamless charging integration, requiring third-party apps like ABRP for optimal trip planning.
• Equinox EV's combination of tax incentives and lower purchase price created an attractive financial opportunity despite some feature trade-offs.

Reyes's story is a microcosm of the larger EV ownership experience. It's a journey of discovery, of weighing pros and cons, and of finding the right vehicle for your specific needs. While the promise of a maintenance-free, problem-free electric future has yet to be fully realized, the continuous improvement in technology and the growing community of knowledgeable owners are paving the way for a more mature and user-friendly EV market.

The fact that an owner can be so pleased with his new vehicle, even in the face of immediate service needs, is a testament to the compelling nature of electric driving. It also underscores the importance of a strong dealer relationship and the value of community forums, where owners can share their experiences and help each other navigate the exciting but sometimes challenging world of EV ownership. The Equinox EV may not be perfect, but for Reyes, it represents a step forward in his personal electric odyssey, and a reminder that the best EV is the one that best fits your life.

Image Sources: Chevrolet Media Center

Noah Washington is an automotive journalist based in Atlanta, Georgia. He enjoys covering the latest news in the automotive industry and conducting reviews on the latest cars. He has been in the automotive industry since 15 years old and has been featured in prominent automotive news sites. You can reach him on X and LinkedIn for tips and to follow his automotive coverage.