How much does it cost to replace a turbo on a Chevy Equinox?
Generally, you should budget about $2,000 to $3,500 for a turbo replacement on a Chevy Equinox, with higher costs if you opt for OEM parts or if additional repairs are required.
The exact price depends on your Equinox’s engine (for example, the 2.0-liter turbo is the most common setup in recent years), the choice of new OEM versus remanufactured or aftermarket turbo, local labor rates, and whether other related components such as oil lines, intercooler hoses, or the downpipe need replacement. Below is a breakdown of the main factors and typical price ranges to help you shop smarter.
Cost factors that influence the price
Understanding the elements that drive cost can help you get accurate quotes and plan your budget. The following factors commonly affect the total expense of turbo replacement on a Chevy Equinox.
- Engine type and model year: Different turbo configurations and generations impact parts availability and labor time.
- New vs. remanufactured or aftermarket turbo: OEM-new parts cost more, while remanufactured or aftermarket units can save money but may carry different warranties and lifespans.
- Additional components: Replacing the turbo often requires new oil supply lines, gaskets, intercooler hoses, clamps, and possibly a new downpipe or actuators.
- Labor rates and shop location: Labor costs vary widely by region and by shop (dealer vs. independent shop).
- Condition of related systems: If oil delivery has been compromised or the engine has sustained damage, additional repairs may be needed.
- Warranty and project scope: Some shops include a limited warranty on the turbo and labor; others charge separately for extended protection.
In short, the price is driven by parts choice, labor cost, and how extensive the replacement and any ancillary work turn out to be.
Typical installed price ranges
Before you shop, here is a practical breakdown of what you can expect to see on quotes for an installed turbo replacement on a Chevy Equinox. The numbers reflect common US market ranges as of 2024–2025 and can vary by region and vehicle specifics.
- Parts costs: Turbocharger unit (new OEM) typically ranges from about $600 to $1,600; plus gaskets, oil lines, intercooler hoses, and related hardware generally add $100 to $500. Overall parts for a complete job can run roughly $700 to $2,100.
- Labor costs: Labor time is usually between 3 and 7 hours depending on access and model year, with shop rates from about $80 to $150 per hour. This yields approximately $240 to $1,050 in labor.
- Total installed cost (typical): Commonly about $2,000 to $3,500 for a well‑priced replacement using aftermarket or remanufactured parts, and closer to $3,500 to $4,000 or more if you use OEM parts and encounter additional repairs.
- Alternative options: Opting for a refurbished or used turbo can lower the parts cost substantially but may carry higher risk and shorter warranty; labor costs remain similar.
Prices vary by model year, exact engine configuration, and the shop’s labor rates. Always obtain multiple written quotes and confirm what’s included (parts warranty, labor warranty, and whether ancillary components are covered) before authorizing work.
What to check before replacing the turbo
To avoid surprises, ask potential shops about warranty terms, whether they test the oiling system for back‑flow or starvation issues, and whether they recommend replacing related components as part of the job. A well‑planned replacement often includes inspecting and replacing oil lines, seals, and intercooler hoses to prevent future failures.
Helpful questions to ask
When evaluating quotes, consider asking about: warranty length, whether a timing or engine inspection is included, whether a diagnostic check is performed after installation, and what the expected lifespan of the replacement part is based on your driving habits.
Summary
Replacing a turbo on a Chevy Equinox is a significant repair that typically sits in the $2,000–$3,500 installed range, with higher totals possible when OEM parts are used or when additional repairs are needed. Costs depend on engine variant, part quality, labor rates, and the scope of related work. To minimize surprises, obtain multiple quotes, clarify inclusions and warranties, and consider the overall health of the vehicle and related systems before proceeding.
Bottom line: plan for a sizable repair, shop wisely, and factor in potential additional upkeep if the turbo failure has affected other engine components. A proactive approach and clear quotes can help you navigate the road to a reliable fix.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace a turbocharger?
Budget: If you're on a tight budget, rebuilding the turbo is often the more cost-effective option. It's especially true if the damage is minor and you can restore the turbo to near-new condition.
How much does it cost to replace a turbo in a Chevy Equinox?
The average cost for a Chevrolet Equinox Turbocharger Assembly Replacement is between $1,834 and $2,172. Labor costs are estimated between $671 and $985 while parts are priced between $1,163 and $1,187.
Is replacing a turbo a big job?
Replacing a turbo is a complicated task with multiple steps, so it's not one that can be rushed. On average, a skilled mechanic with all the specialist tools can complete the job in three to four hours, but in some cases, it can take up to eight.
What year to stay away from Chevy Equinox?
You should stay away from the Chevy Equinox years that include 2005–2008, 2010–2017, and 2018, due to common issues like excessive oil consumption, engine failures, and electrical problems. The most frequently cited model years to avoid are the ones from 2010-2013, primarily due to the high rate of oil consumption in the 2.4L engine, which can lead to costly engine damage.
Specific years and common problems
- 2005–2008: Prone to engine failures, electrical issues, and cooling system problems.
- 2010–2013: Frequently cited for heavy oil consumption, which can lead to engine wear and failure if not constantly monitored.
- 2014–2015: Some model years within this range are considered better than others, but the 2.4L engine still has a history of oil consumption issues.
- 2017: Known for issues similar to the 2010-2013 models, particularly with the 2.4L engine.
- 2018: Reported to have problems with the check engine light and issues with the battery.
