Does the Chevy Equinox have run flat tires?
In short, the Chevy Equinox does not come with run-flat tires as standard on its current models. Most trims ship with conventional tires and a spare or a tire repair kit rather than Run Flat tires.
What run-flat tires are and why they matter
Run-flat tires are designed to be driven after a puncture for a limited distance, typically at a reduced speed. They are more common on some luxury and performance vehicles, and they can allow you to leave a difficult roadside situation without changing a tire right away. On mainstream SUVs like the Equinox, run-flats are not typically factory-installed.
- Run-flat tires can let you continue driving for a short distance after a puncture, usually up to about 50 miles at modest speeds.
- They often require compatible wheels and can result in a stiffer ride, higher replacement costs, and more limited repair options.
- Not all vehicles are equipped for run-flat tires, and many mass-market crossovers do not offer them from the factory.
In practice, buyers should not expect run-flat tires on a stock Equinox. Always verify the exact configuration on your model year and trim using the window sticker or the owner’s manual.
Is the Equinox equipped with run-flat tires?
No, not as a rule. The Equinox’s factory tire configuration varies by year and trim, but GM has not offered run-flat tires as a standard factory option for this model. You will typically find a conventional tubeless tire with either a spare tire or a tire-sealant inflator kit instead of run flats.
To confirm for your exact vehicle, check the tire sidewall for Run Flat or RFT markings, look at the trunk for a spare wheel, and consult the window sticker or the owner's manual. If in doubt, contact a Chevrolet dealership.
- Factory run-flat tires are not a standard feature on current Equinox models.
- Most trims include a spare tire or a tire repair kit rather than run-flat tires.
- Variations can occur by year and market, so always verify with the specific vehicle documentation.
- If your model lacks a spare, you may have a tire sealant/inflator kit instead.
Bottom line: check your own vehicle’s documentation to know exactly which tire setup you have before planning any tire-related changes.
How to verify on your specific vehicle
If you’re trying to determine this for a particular Equinox, follow these steps to confirm your tire configuration and plan any replacements accordingly.
- Inspect the tire sidewalls for markings such as Run Flat or RFT to see if they are run-flat tires.
- Open the trunk to see whether a spare wheel is present or if there is only a tire repair kit/sealant inflator.
- Consult the owner’s manual or the door jamb placard for the official tire type and recommended equipment for your VIN.
- Call or visit a Chevrolet dealer with your VIN for a definitive answer on OEM tire configuration.
With the exact configuration known, you’ll be better prepared if you ever need a tire change or decide to pursue aftermarket tires.
Should you switch to run-flat tires?
Pros and cons
If you’re weighing whether to use run-flat tires on an Equinox, consider these trade-offs:
- Pros: Allows continued driving after a puncture, potentially removes the need to carry a spare, and can simplify storage in smaller vehicles.
- Cons: Typically more expensive, can yield a firmer ride, may limit repair options after damage, and often require specific wheels and TPMS settings.
- Other considerations: Aftermarket fitment may affect warranty terms and service options; confirm compatibility with your exact wheel size and vehicle configuration.
If ride quality, repair options, or cost are priorities, you may prefer conventional tires with a spare or a sealant kit, which is the setup most Equinox buyers encounter today.
Summary
The Chevrolet Equinox does not come with run-flat tires as a standard feature in its current lineup. Most models use conventional tires and provide either a spare tire or a tire repair kit instead of run flats. Always check the specific documentation for your vehicle (window sticker, owner’s manual, and VIN) to confirm the exact tire configuration, and consult with a Chevrolet dealer if you’re considering a change to run-flat tires.
What kind of tires come on a Chevy Equinox?
Chevrolet Equinox tire pressures & sizes
| Tire Size | Position | Pressure |
|---|---|---|
| P235/60R17 100S | Front | 35 Bar |
| P235/60R17 100S | Rear | 35 Bar |
| P235/50R18 97W | Front | 30 Bar |
| P235/50R18 97W | Rear | 30 Bar |
Does Equinox EV have run-flat tires?
No equinox EV's come with factory run flats. Only self sealing or a canister in the trunk. It's the trade off automakers forced upon us.
What's the most common problem with the Chevy Equinox?
The most common issues include:
- Excessive oil consumption: Many owners report the engine rapidly burns or leaks oil, requiring frequent top-offs and risking severe engine damage if not closely monitored.
- Timing chain failure: Early timing chain wear or breakage can cause catastrophic engine damage and sudden breakdowns.
How do I tell if my tires are run flat?
You can identify a run-flat tire by checking the sidewall for markings such as "Run Flat," "RFT," "SSR," "ZP," or "RSC". Different manufacturers use their own acronyms, so it's also helpful to look for specific brand codes like Goodyear's "ROF" or Michelin's "ZP". Additionally, run-flat tires have noticeably stiffer, thicker sidewalls compared to standard tires.
This video explains how to identify run-flat tires by looking for specific markings on the sidewall: 50sTyrePartnerYouTube · Mar 25, 2025
Common run-flat markings by manufacturer
- Bridgestone: RFT
- Continental: SSR
- Dunlop: DSST or ROF
- Goodyear: ROF or EMT
- Hankook: HRS
- Michelin: ZP
- Pirelli: RSC
- Yokohama: ZPS
Other identification methods
- Look for the words: Many brands simply have the words "Run Flat" printed directly on the sidewall.
- Check the owner's manual: Your car's owner's manual will list the specifications for the original equipment tires, which can confirm if they were run-flats from the factory.
- Notice the stiff sidewall: Run-flat tires have a reinforced sidewall that is much stiffer and firmer to the touch than a non-run-flat tire.
- Look for the ISO symbol: A universal symbol for run-flats is the letters RSC (Run Flat System Component) enclosed in a circle.
- Check for a TPMS: Many vehicles equipped with run-flats also have a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that is specifically designed to monitor their pressure.
This video shows the physical difference in sidewall stiffness between a run-flat and a non-run-flat tire: 57sAuto Repair GuysYouTube · Feb 7, 2021
