Are there a lot of problems with Chevy Equinox?
The Chevrolet Equinox has a mixed reliability history that varies by model year. Some generations are more prone to issues than others, but many owners report solid daily use when the vehicle is well maintained. This article looks at common problems, how they vary by generation, and what to check if you’re considering one—new or used.
Reliability by generation
Understanding where problems tend to cluster can help buyers weigh risk and plan maintenance. The following breakdown covers the two main generations of the Equinox and what owners have reported over time.
First generation (2005–2017)
During the early years, owners and watchdogs flagged a mix of powertrain and reliability concerns. Common topics included issues with intake manifolds and seals, occasional transmission-related problems, plus electrical and HVAC glitches. While many units performed reliably, a noticeable share of complaints clustered around mechanical wear and early-generation electronics.
Common trouble patterns from the 2005–2017 period include:
- Powertrain and cooling system concerns, including occasional leaks and seals
- Transmission behavior problems such as rough or delayed shifts in some units
- Electrical and HVAC glitches reported by a share of owners
- Oil consumption and related maintenance needs in certain trims or engines
Overall, these early models benefit from careful maintenance history, as with many aging family crossovers. A well-documented service record can mitigate some risk of larger failures in this generation.
Second generation (2018–2023)
In the redesigned Equinox, GM aimed to tighten reliability and modernize electronics. While many owners enjoyed improved ride quality and features, some persistent issues carried over, particularly around drivetrains and tech. Transmission performance and oil consumption remained topics for certain engine options, and infotainment/electrical glitches continued to appear in some vehicles.
What owners commonly report for the 2018–2023 generation includes:
- Transmission/shift issues, including occasional rough shifting or hesitation
- Oil consumption in some engines, leading to more frequent top-ups
- Infotainment and electrical glitches affecting screens, Bluetooth, or nav
- Occasional engine misfire or noise reports in a subset of units
- AWD drivetrain or related noises in some all-wheel-drive models
As with any mid-life redesign, reliability can vary by trim, engine choice, and maintenance history. Routine service and attentive checks during ownership are important for minimizing surprises.
Current status and buying advice
GM halted production of the gasoline-powered Chevrolet Equinox after the 2023 model year, shifting its focus toward the all-electric Equinox EV and other models. For buyers looking at a used Equinox, the model-year-specific reliability picture remains the key factor, since some years are markedly more problematic than others.
If you’re considering a used Equinox, keep this checklist in mind:
- Review complete maintenance history, especially transmission service intervals and oil-change records
- Check for open recalls and service campaigns using the VIN through NHTSA or GM’s recalls portal
- Test-drive to assess transmission smoothness, braking, steering feel, and any abnormal sounds
- Inspect electrical systems: infotainment, climate control, headlights, and instrument cluster
- Look for signs of excessive oil consumption or oil leaks in the engine bay
- If buying AWD, listen for drivetrain noises and verify proper engagement of all wheels
In short, a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a clean maintenance history significantly reduce the risk of buying a problem-prone Equinox.
Summary
The Chevy Equinox’ reliability varies by generation and individual vehicle history. Early models (2005–2017) show more frequent reports of powertrain and electrical issues, while 2018–2023 models improved in some areas but still present common concerns like transmission behavior, oil consumption, and infotainment glitches. With the gas-powered Equinox now discontinued after 2023 and the Equinox EV taking center stage for new purchases, prospective buyers should weigh model-year history carefully and prioritize thorough inspections and verifiable maintenance records when shopping used. For those seeking modern powertrains and advanced tech, the electric option offers a different reliability and ownership profile.
