Larry C
SUNBURY, PA | 2019 Chevrolet EquinoxSeptember 2, 2025
August 18, 2025 our 2019 Equinox went into limp mode. We had the car towed to your service department. They diagnosed it on the 22nd. The check engine light came on and your service department found two codes for a transmission control module and a transmission control solenoid valve 5 stuck, incorrect fluid level, 1/2 quart low. Topped off fluid and reran diagnosis. Your recommendation; replace transmission; cost $8,012.37. We were not willing to pay that amount on a car you deemed worth $10,000. We took the car to a local transmission shop. He diagnosed with the same problem, but told us there was a little door on the transmission that gave access to these problems, and it could be repaired without dropping the transmission; estimated cost $1,500.00. Since his repair lot was full, we had to take the car home and return it on Thursday. When we drove the car to the shop, it shifted perfectly. We told the owner of this, and he knew then, it was not the transmission itself. He had the foresight to call the GM Hotline who advised him to simply change the fluid, and not to flush the system. He did that and the car has been working fine ever since. Total cost of repair $280.00. It seems to me that a certified GM Dealer should first of all have mechanics that are transmission experts, and second, they should be trained to troubleshoot, and should have the GM Hotline at their fingertips. I did not know the fluid should be changed at 45,000 and 90,000 miles. Two mechanics told me it was a sealed transmission, so we thought nothing needed to be done. Since I had your GM warranty and had bought the extended warranty, I was under the impression that this problem should have been covered. I believe your salesmen should be versed on what needs to be done to keep a car in warranty and should have something in writing to show what needs to be done and when. Yes, I realize now it is your GM manual. Shame on me for not reading the manual; shame on you for not pointing out these major warranty things to your customers. Since this issue, I have lost respect for your dealership, give the vast difference in cost and an incorrect diagnosis. Larry and Rita Campbell, 2145 Spruce Road, Sunbury, PA 17801
Response from Hawkins Chevrolet
September 2, 2025Larry and Rita, thank you for taking the time to share such a detailed account of your experience. We are truly sorry to hear about the frustration and disappointment you’ve felt throughout this situation. Your concerns regarding the diagnosis, communication, and clarity around warranty coverage are very important to us, and we regret that we did not meet your expectations.
We strive to ensure our service team provides accurate diagnoses and thorough explanations to every customer, and your feedback makes it clear that we fell short in this instance. Please know we are reviewing this internally to make improvements so future customers do not encounter the same experience.
We also understand how discouraging it must have been to receive such different cost estimates and recommendations, and we appreciate you bringing this to our attention. Your feedback helps us grow, and we hope we can earn back your trust in the future.
Tina N
WAPWALLOPEN, PA | 2022 Chevrolet 2500HD SilveradoAugust 17, 2025
Scratches in driver's door and door behind it. Took it back the next day, they got all the scratches out but one. Didn't offer any compensation for time or fuel going back and forth. I live 45 minutes away.
Response from Hawkins Chevrolet
August 18, 2025Tina, I truly appreciate you sharing this with us. I’m glad we were able to get most of the scratches taken care of quickly, but I understand how frustrating it must have been to make that extra trip, especially living 45 minutes away. Your time and effort matter, and I’m sorry we didn’t do more to make that right. Thank you for giving us the chance to correct the issue, and I hope we can earn back your full confidence moving forward.