Does a 2017 Chevy Equinox have any problems?
Yes—some 2017 Equinox models experience issues, but many owners report reliable performance with regular maintenance. The likelihood and severity of problems depend on mileage, maintenance history, and how the vehicle was used.
This article examines the kinds of problems reported for the 2017 Equinox, how recalls and safety notices may affect the vehicle, and practical steps buyers and owners can take to minimize risk. It draws on owner feedback, recall databases, and general reliability assessments to provide a balanced view of what to expect from a used Equinox from this year.
Common issues reported by owners
Below are categories where owners have reported problems. The list reflects what has shown up in owner forums, consumer reviews, and recall advisories. Individual experiences vary, and many issues are manageable with maintenance or dealer service.
- Transmission and drivetrain: Some owners report rough or hesitant shifting, occasional shudder, or transient transmission behavior. In many cases, software updates or dealer-touched repairs have resolved or reduced these symptoms.
- Electronics and infotainment: MyLink/infotainment glitches, touchscreen freezes, Bluetooth pairing drops, and occasional navigation or system freezes have been noted by a subset of owners. Software updates or resets often address these problems.
- Oil consumption and engine notes: Oil consumption concerns have been discussed in relation to some GM engines in this era. For the 2017 Equinox, the issue is not universal, but it’s prudent to monitor oil levels and service history, especially if it shows unusual consumption.
- HVAC and interior comfort: Some drivers report blower motor or climate-control quirks, including slower cooling or intermittent blower operation.
- Steering/braking and road feel: A minority of owners have flagged steering assist or braking-related concerns, though these are not widely reported and vary by vehicle and mileage.
In short, while there are reported problems, many 2017 Equinoxes perform well with timely maintenance and attention to any dashboard warnings. A pre-purchase inspection can help identify issues before purchase, and routine servicing often prevents most problems from becoming serious.
Recalls and safety status
There have been recalls and safety notices affecting various 2017 Equinox units. Recalls address safety-critical components and may involve airbags, steering, fuel systems, and powertrain components. Because recall status depends on the specific VIN, it’s essential to check the NHTSA recall database or GM’s official recall checker for the exact vehicle you’re considering or own.
- Airbags and safety restraints: Recalls related to airbag inflators or pretensioners have affected several GM models in this era. VIN-specific status should be checked.
- Steering and electrical systems: Some notices cover steering assist or related electrical components that may impact handling or control.
- Fuel system and emissions: Fuel delivery, evaporative emissions, or related components have been subject to recalls in various GM vehicles.
- Transmission and powertrain software: There have been recalls and service advisories tied to transmission control software and related modules.
- Other safety-related recalls: Additional notices may cover braking, lighting, or connection wiring that could affect overall safety or reliability.
To stay informed, enter the vehicle’s VIN into official recall checkers and contact a Chevrolet dealer for a definitive, VIN-specific list of open recalls and required service.
Practical tips for buyers and owners
Following best practices can reduce the chance of trouble and help you spot issues early.
- Check for recalls and service history: Verify open recalls and whether all required service campaigns have been completed using the VIN. This is crucial for safety-related items.
- Get a thorough pre-purchase inspection: Have a qualified mechanic inspect the engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, and HVAC. Ask them to check for oil leaks and to listen for unusual noises during a test drive.
- Monitor maintenance records: Regular oil changes, filter changes, and tire rotations are important. If the vehicle shows gaps in maintenance, factor that into your buying decision.
- Test drive with purpose: Pay attention to transmission feel (shifts, hesitations), steering response, braking performance, and infotainment reliability during the drive.
- Consider a certified pre-owned (CPO) option: A CPO program can provide extended warranty coverage and thorough inspections, which can reduce risk.
- Know the engine selection: The Equinox offered different engines in 2017 (including turbocharged options). Be aware that performance, fuel economy, and maintenance needs can vary by engine choice.
Bottom line
The 2017 Chevy Equinox is generally a solid compact-to-midsize SUV with average reliability in its class. While some owners report issues—especially related to transmission behavior, infotainment, and certain electrical components—many problems are addressable through regular maintenance, software updates, and timely recalls service. Prospective buyers should perform due diligence with a VIN-specific recall check and a professional pre-purchase inspection to minimize risk.
Summary
In short, a 2017 Chevy Equinox can have problems, but these tend to be manageable with routine maintenance and proactive servicing. Verifying recall status, obtaining a comprehensive inspection, and reviewing the vehicle’s service history are the best steps to determine whether a specific unit will be reliable for you. As with many used vehicles, informed buying and attentive ownership are key to maximizing the 2017 Equinox’s value and peace of mind.
