How often do you need to change the coolant in an Equinox?

For most Equinox models, you should plan to change the coolant every 5 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first, using Dex-Cool extended-life coolant. Always verify the exact interval in your specific model year’s owner’s manual or under-hood labeling, as requirements can vary by engine and year.

Understanding the recommended interval

GM has long used Dex-Cool in many Equinox engines. The maintenance schedule typically targets a coolant replacement about every 5 years or 150,000 miles, but there are important caveats. The exact interval can differ based on your engine type, model year, climate, and how the vehicle is used. When in doubt, consult the owner’s manual or a GM dealer for the precise specification for your car.

The following factors influence whether you should stick to the standard interval or adjust your plan. This list helps explain variations you might encounter across different Equinox configurations and driving conditions.

• The standard interval is often listed as 5 years or 150,000 miles for Dex-Cool engines, but some model-year notes can change this requirement. Always confirm for your vehicle.


• Climate and driving patterns matter. Very hot summers, frequent short trips, or heavy towing can accelerate coolant degradation and the need for replacement.


• Coolant condition is a practical check. If the coolant looks contaminated, has a strange color, or there are signs of leaks or overheating, a replacement should be scheduled sooner.


• Using a different coolant type or mixing coolants can affect protection and service intervals. Always use the specified Dex-Cool formulation or the GM-approved equivalent.


• Manufacturer service updates can alter intervals. In some cases, GM issues bulletins or recalls that adjust maintenance timing; verify with a dealer for your VIN.

In short, while the typical guideline is a 5-year/150,000-mile replacement for many Equinox models, always tailor the plan to your exact year, engine, and operating environment by consulting the manual or your local GM service center.

How to plan and perform the coolant change

Before performing or scheduling a coolant change, it helps to understand the standard process and preparation. The following steps outline a generic approach, but you should defer to the workshop manual and professional service if you’re unsure about any steps.

• Ensure the engine is cool and parked on a level surface. Open the radiator cap only after the engine has cooled to prevent burns from pressurized coolant.


• Use the correct coolant type. For most Equinox models, Dex-Cool extended-life coolant is recommended. Do not mix Dex-Cool with other coolant families unless explicitly approved by GM.


• Drain the old coolant. Locate the drain valve at the bottom of the radiator or the engine block, and catch the coolant in a suitable container for disposal according to local regulations.


• Optionally flush the system. A thorough flush with distilled water can help remove old deposits; follow with a proper coolant fill. Some GM procedures discourage aggressive flushing in certain Dex-Cool systems, so consult the service manual.


• Refill with a 50/50 mix of Dex-Cool and distilled water (or use premixed Dex-Cool as specified by GM). Ensure the level is correct in both the radiator and the reservoir.


• Bleed air from the cooling system. Start the engine with the radiator cap off (after the fill) and run until the thermostat opens, watching for bubbling and air pockets. Reinstall the cap once full circulating coolant is achieved.


• Check for leaks and recheck coolant level after the engine reaches operating temperature. Top off as needed once the system cools again.


• Record the service date and mileage. Keep documentation for maintenance scheduling and resale records.

Following these steps helps ensure the cooling system remains effective and protects the engine from overheating, corrosion, and related failures.

Summary

For most Chevy Equinox models, the coolant change interval is typically 5 years or 150,000 miles, using Dex-Cool extended-life coolant. Always verify the exact requirement for your year and engine in the owner’s manual or with a dealer, as intervals can vary. Climate, driving habits, coolant condition, and whether the correct coolant is used all influence when a coolant change should occur. When in doubt, schedule a maintenance check with a qualified technician, especially if you notice overheating, leaks, or unusual coolant color. Keeping a record of service dates helps maintain optimal engine cooling and long-term reliability.

What is the maintenance schedule for a Chevy Equinox?

A Chevy Equinox maintenance schedule includes regular oil changes and tire rotations every 7,500 miles, and more extensive services at 15,000, 45,000, and 60,000+ mile intervals. Key tasks include replacing cabin and engine air filters, inspecting and replacing brake fluid, transmission fluid, and spark plugs at specific mileages.
 
Every 7,500 miles 

• Change engine oil and filter
• Rotate tires
• Lubricate doors, hood hinge, and trunk
• Inspect brake pads and rotors
• Check all fluid levels 

Every 15,000 miles 

• Perform all 7,500-mile services
• Inspect cabin air filter
• Inspect cooling system, suspension, and steering components
• Check brakes and battery
• Check wiper blades and lights 

Every 45,000 miles 
Replace engine air filter, Replace the automatic transmission fluid (and filter for CVT), Replace brake fluid, and Inspect the evaporative control system. 
Every 60,000 miles 
Inspect drive belts, Replace the spark plugs and inspect wires, and Replace the transmission fluid as recommended. 
Every 100,000 miles 

• Replace the hood and body lift support gas struts
• Replace spark plugs and inspect ignition coils
• Check coolant for replacement 

Other maintenance

• Replace the passenger compartment air filter at 22,500 miles and every 15,000-mile interval after that 
• Flush and refill the engine cooling system at 150,000 miles 
• Inspect and replace the 12-volt battery every 3 to 5 years or as needed 

What kind of coolant does a Chevy Equinox take?

A Chevy Equinox takes an orange, Dex-Cool compatible coolant, which is a type of HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant. You can use either a pre-mixed 50/50 solution or a concentrate that you mix with distilled water, but it's crucial to use an orange coolant for GM vehicles like the Equinox, not a universal yellow or green one.
 
Recommended coolant

• Type: Orange, Dex-Cool compatible coolant. 
• Form: You can choose between a pre-mixed 50/50 solution or a concentrate that you mix with distilled water. 
• Why: This is the specific type of coolant designed for GM vehicles to prevent corrosion and ensure proper system performance. 

Important considerations

• Avoid mixing colors: Do not mix orange coolant with other colors, as this can cause damage. If you need to top off the system, ensure the coolant is compatible with the existing orange coolant. 
• Flush the system: If you have mixed coolant colors, it is recommended to have the cooling system flushed by a professional and refilled with the correct orange coolant. 
• Check the level: After the engine has cooled, you can check the coolant level in the reservoir. The level should be between the "low" and "full" lines. 
• Follow the instructions: Always follow the specific instructions on the coolant container, especially if you are using a concentrate.

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. 

How often should you change transmission fluid on a Chevy Equinox?

The Chevy Equinox transmission fluid change interval is typically every 45,000 miles, though it can vary depending on the model and driving conditions. For 8-speed automatics, change the fluid at 45,000 miles, while models with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) should have both the fluid and filter changed at the same interval. 
This video demonstrates how to perform a transmission fluid change on a Chevy Equinox: 52sPro Tips PlusYouTube · Dec 24, 2023

• Standard interval: Check the owner's manual for the most accurate information, but a general guideline is every 45,000 miles for automatic transmissions. 
• CVT: If your Equinox has a CVT, it's recommended to change the fluid and filter at every 45,000-mile service. 
• Severe driving conditions: If you frequently drive in heavy stop-and-go traffic, tow, or operate in other severe conditions, the fluid may need to be changed sooner than the standard 45,000-mile interval. 
• All-wheel drive (AWD): For AWD models, the transfer case fluid should also be replaced at the 45,000-mile service. 
• Manual transmission: Manual transmissions generally have a different schedule, typically around every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.