How long will a 2015 Chevy Equinox last?

Most 2015 Chevrolet Equinoxes can reasonably be expected to reach about 150,000 to 200,000 miles with proper maintenance; some owners push beyond 200,000 miles with diligent care. In practical terms, that translates to around 10 to 15 years of regular driving for many households, depending on annual mileage and upkeep.

What determines how long the 2015 Equinox lasts

A vehicle’s lifespan depends on a mix of maintenance habits, driving conditions, climate, and how promptly problems are addressed. For the Equinox, the health of the engine, transmission, cooling system, and rust protection—along with timely recalls and service campaigns—largely shapes whether a given car hits high mileage or stops earlier.

Engine options and longevity

In the 2015 Equinox lineup, buyers could choose a 2.4-liter inline-four or a 3.6-liter V6. Each powertrain has its own maintenance profile, but both can reach solid mileages if cared for properly.

• 2.4L I4 engine: Generally simpler and reliable when serviced on schedule; uses a timing chain and benefits from regular oil changes and cooling-system upkeep.


• 3.6L V6 engine: More power and a longer maintenance list; robust when well maintained, but tends to involve more costly parts and repairs as mileage climbs.

In short, the engine choice matters for maintenance complexity and cost, but both configurations can endure with disciplined care.

Maintenance that extends life

Staying on top of a thorough maintenance routine and addressing issues promptly is the cornerstone of maximizing a 2015 Equinox’s lifespan.

• Follow the manufacturer’s schedule for oil changes, typically every 5,000–7,500 miles depending on oil type and driving conditions.


• Keep up with transmission and cooling-system service as recommended by GM, including fluid checks and changes when indicated.


• Replace spark plugs and ignition components at the recommended intervals to prevent misfires and added wear.


• Regularly inspect brakes, tires, suspension, and steering, and replace worn parts to avoid cascading damage.


• Protect the undercarriage from rust in climates with road salt and harsh winters; wash and treat exposed metal as needed.


• Address recalls and service campaigns promptly to correct defects that could compromise longevity.

With vigilant maintenance, the Equinox can hold up well into higher mileages and years of use.

What owners report about expected lifespan

Owner experiences and reliability data for the 2015 Equinox show a broad range, reflecting how use and care influence outcomes.

• Many examples reach roughly 150,000–200,000 miles with regular maintenance.


• Some owners report 200,000–250,000 miles when maintenance is thorough and repairs are timely.


• Lower lifespans are often linked to severe wear, accidents, rust, or deferred repairs rather than a universal defect in the model.

These ranges illustrate that longevity is achievable, but it hinges on ongoing upkeep and responsible ownership.

Buying a used 2015 Equinox: what to check

When shopping for a used 2015 Equinox, prioritize a complete maintenance history and a clean record on major components that influence long-term reliability.

• Verify maintenance logs: regular oil changes, transmission service, coolant flushes, brake and tire replacements.


• Test the transmission for smooth shifting and absence of slipping or harsh engagement; review any past transmission work.


• Check for oil leaks around the engine and transmission areas; inspect cooling hoses and the radiator for wear.


• Inspect for rust on the underbody, wheel wells, and frame, especially in climates with road salt exposure.


• Confirm recalls and service campaigns have been completed using the VIN and GM service history.

Choosing a well-documented, well-maintained example increases the odds of reaching higher mileages.

Summary

With attentive maintenance, a 2015 Chevy Equinox can typically reach 150,000–200,000 miles, and many owners achieve 200,000–250,000 miles with diligent care. The 2.4L and 3.6L engines offer different maintenance experiences, but neither sets an unavoidable ceiling on longevity. Regular service, mindful driving, and prompt recall repairs are the best strategies to maximize a used Equinox’s lifespan.

How many miles is a 2015 Chevy Equinox good for?

A 2015 Chevy Equinox can be expected to last 150,000 to 200,000 miles, or approximately 13 to 17 years, with proper maintenance. However, the four-cylinder engine in this model year is known for potential oil consumption and other issues that could shorten its lifespan if not carefully monitored and maintained. With excellent care, some owners have reported reaching over 200,000 miles.
 
Factors influencing the 2015 Equinox's lifespan

• Engine: The 2.4L four-cylinder engine in this model year is prone to oil consumption issues and can be expensive to repair if it is not caught early. The V6 engine and newer turbocharged four-cylinder engines are generally more reliable. 
• Maintenance: Following a regular maintenance schedule, especially with oil changes and checks for leaks or oil levels, is crucial for extending the life of the vehicle. 
• Driving Habits: Smooth driving habits place less stress on the engine and parts, which contributes to a longer-lasting vehicle. 
• Repairs: Using high-quality parts during repairs is also a key factor in the longevity of any vehicle. 

Tips for maximizing the life of your 2015 Equinox

• Monitor oil levels: Frequently check your oil levels, especially if you have the four-cylinder engine, and address any consumption issues promptly. 
• Perform routine maintenance: Stick to the recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, tire rotations, and other fluid checks. 
• Drive smoothly: Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking to reduce wear and tear on the engine and other components. 
• Address problems early: Don't ignore warning lights or strange noises. Catching small issues early can prevent them from turning into major, expensive problems. 

Which Chevy Equinox to stay away from?

You should avoid Chevy Equinox years from 2010 to 2013, as they are known for issues like excessive oil consumption and transmission problems. Additionally, you may want to be cautious with early models from 2005 to 2008 and some newer 2020-2021 models due to other recurring concerns like control arm and fuel pump issues. 
Years to avoid

• 2005-2008: These early models are associated with rattling sounds from the front lower control arm and potential airbag system failures. 
• 2010-2013: This range is considered particularly problematic due to widespread issues with excessive oil consumption and transmission problems. 
• 2020-2021: Some owners report issues with specific engines and the fuel pump module, which can lead to engine stalls. 

Common problems in avoided years 

• Excessive oil consumption: Linked to worn piston rings or a faulty PCV system, requiring frequent oil top-offs. 
• Transmission issues: Can include hard shifting or complete failure, potentially caused by a faulty control module. 
• Airbag system failures: Recalls have been issued for some model years, as sensors or wiring issues can prevent airbags from deploying. 
• Fuel pump module problems: In some 2021-2022 models, a faulty module can lead to the engine stalling. 

How to choose a better model

• Years to look for: 2009, 2015–2017, and 2019–2020 are often cited as better years for the Equinox. 
• Third-generation models (2018-present): Generally have better reliability ratings and a wide range of modern safety features. 

How many miles do Chevy Equinox usually last?

A Chevy Equinox can last 200,000 to 250,000 miles or more with proper maintenance and care. This lifespan translates to roughly 13 to 17 years for drivers who average 15,000 miles per year. The actual mileage depends on factors like model year, engine type, and driving conditions, with newer models from 2016 onward generally having higher reliability. 
Factors that influence longevity

• Maintenance: Regularly following the recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial for reaching high mileage. 
• Driving habits: Gentle driving, especially on the highway, can lead to a longer-lasting engine. Avoiding frequent short trips and aggressive acceleration can also help reduce wear. 
• Model year: Newer models, particularly those from 2016 onward, tend to be more reliable. Some older models, especially those with the second-generation four-cylinder engine (2010-2013), had issues with excessive oil consumption that could lead to engine wear. 
• Engine type: The four-cylinder engines in the 2010-2017 model years have been more problematic than the V6 or newer turbocharged four-cylinder engines, which are more reliable. 
• Driving conditions: Frequent short trips, towing, and driving in harsh environments like salty or dusty areas can accelerate wear. 

Tips to extend your Equinox's life

• Change your oil every 7,500 miles with full synthetic oil. 
• Perform regular tire rotations to ensure even wear. 
• Replace the engine air filter and spark plugs at the recommended intervals (e.g., air filter around 45,000 miles, spark plugs around 97,500 miles). 
• Monitor transmission fluid condition and address any signs of slipping or rough shifts promptly. 
• Be mindful of local driving conditions and adjust your care and maintenance accordingly. 

What is the most common problem with the 2015 Chevy Equinox?

The most common problems with the 2015 Chevy Equinox are excessive oil consumption and potential engine and electrical issues. Excessive oil consumption is often caused by worn piston rings or a faulty positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system, which can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not addressed. Other frequent complaints include timing chain problems (for four-cylinder engines) and various electrical problems, such as issues with the battery, Bluetooth, and USB ports.
 
This video discusses common engine problems in Chevy Equinoxes including oil consumption and timing chain issues: 52s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Apr 7, 2021
Engine and performance issues

• Excessive oil consumption: Many owners report that the engine consumes a significant amount of oil between changes, sometimes requiring frequent top-offs. This can be caused by worn piston rings or a failing PCV system. 
• Timing chain problems: The 4-cylinder engine is prone to timing chain wear or failure, which can cause engine damage and should be monitored. 
• Engine stalls/loss of power: Some owners report unexpected stalling or a loss of power, which can be a safety risk. 
• Rough running: The vehicle may experience rough idling or a persistently illuminated "check engine" light. 

Electrical and other problems

• Battery issues: Some models have experienced issues with the battery, leading to a failure to start in cold weather. 
• Electronic system failures: There are reports of faulty components like the Bluetooth audio, USB ports, and other electrical systems. 
• Windshield wiper failure: The windshield wiper system can fail due to corrosion in the module, creating a dangerous lack of visibility in bad weather. 
• EVAP system codes: Check engine lights may appear due to issues with the evaporative emission control system, often starting with a simple loose or damaged gas cap or a faulty purge valve. 

This video demonstrates how to check for a faulty purge valve in a Chevy Equinox: 39sAlex The Car DoctorYouTube · Mar 27, 2024