How safe is the Chevy Equinox?

The Equinox is generally a solid safety choice in the compact-SUV segment, especially in the latest model years that bundle strong driver-assistance features with favorable crash-test results. However, safety performance and equipment vary by year and trim, so it’s important to check the exact model-year ratings and recall status for the specific vehicle you’re considering.

The question of safety spans crash-test performance, available and active driver-assistance systems, and recall history—areas where results can shift from year to year. This article outlines what to know when assessing the Equinox’s safety profile for new purchases or used buys.

What the latest Equinox offers in safety

Note: Modern Equinox models come with a suite of driver-assistance features. The following list highlights typical safety tech found on recent models and trims.

• Automatic Emergency Braking with Forward Collision Alert


• Front Pedestrian Braking


• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning


• Following Distance Indicator


• IntelliBeam Auto High Beams


• Rear Vision Camera


• Rear Park Assist


• Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert (availability varies by trim)


• Rear Cross Traffic Alert


• Adaptive Cruise Control (availability varies by trim)


• Chevrolet Safety Assist as a standard safety suite on recent models

These features reflect a focus on crash avoidance, improved visibility, and safer following distances. Exact availability depends on the model year and package level, so verify the specific equipment on the vehicle you’re evaluating.

Crash-test ratings and safety scores

Two primary independent authorities assess the Equinox: the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). Here is a snapshot of what they have typically reported for recent model years:

• IIHS: The Equinox has earned Good ratings in several crash categories such as moderate overlap front and side impact, with roof strength generally rated Good. Headlight performance has varied by trim and lighting package, with some configurations receiving Acceptable or Poor ratings, which can prevent Top Safety Pick status for certain years.


• NHTSA: Recent model years have earned solid overall ratings, often around four stars out of five, with individual frontal and side-crash ratings frequently in the four- to five-star range. Ratings can vary by engine, drivetrain, and trim level.


• Overall takeaway: Newer Equinox models tend to offer stronger standard safety technology and competitive crash-test results, but differences by year and trim mean you should check the exact ratings for the model you’re considering.

In practice, modern Equinoxes provide robust safety performance, but if you mainly rely on headlights for night driving or are shopping for an older model, it’s important to review the year-specific IIHS and NHTSA results for that exact vehicle.

Recalls and ongoing safety concerns

Recalls are an important part of a vehicle’s safety story. The Equinox has experienced recalls across various model years for issues ranging from airbags to transmission components and other safety-related systems. Always verify the current recall status for any specific vehicle you’re considering by looking up the VIN on official sites.

• Check NHTSA’s recall lookup and GM’s recall site with the vehicle’s VIN to see any open campaigns and required remedies.


• Be aware that some recalls require dealer service to replace or repair affected components, sometimes at no cost to the owner.


• For safety-critical systems (AEB, FCW, lane-keeping features, etc.), ensure the software and hardware are up to date and that sensors are functioning properly.

Staying informed about recalls and ensuring completed service campaigns are essential to maintaining the Equinox’s safety performance over time.

Buying advice: safety-focused considerations

Best model years for safety features

Newer model years generally bring more advanced and standardized safety technology across trims. If safety features matter most, targeting the latest available model year with the Safety Assist suite is advisable.

Used-car safety checklist

• Obtain a comprehensive vehicle history report (e.g., Carfax or AutoCheck) and verify there are no outstanding safety recalls.


• Check IIHS/NHTSA ratings for the exact year and trim you’re considering.


• Test the active safety systems (automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, etc.) during a test drive to confirm proper operation.


• Inspect the headlights for proper illumination, especially if you’re evaluating older models, since headlight performance affects night-time safety.


• Have a trusted mechanic inspect the braking system, steering geometry, tire condition, and sensor calibrations (radar/lidar/s-camera systems) that feed safety features.

Bottom line: For safety-conscious buyers, prioritize newer model years with the standard Safety Assist suite, and always verify the functionality and calibration of active safety features on the exact vehicle you intend to purchase.

Summary

The Chevy Equinox offers a solid safety proposition in the compact-SUV segment, with modern models delivering strong driver-assistance features and generally favorable crash-test results. Year-to-year and trim-to-trim variations mean you should check the specific IIHS/NHTSA ratings for the model you’re considering, review current recall status by VIN, and verify that the active safety systems are functioning properly. For buyers seeking maximum safety, aim for the latest model-year Equinoxes equipped with the Chevy Safety Assist suite and comprehensive headlights, and perform thorough pre-purchase checks if buying used.

Which Chevy Equinox to stay away from?

You should avoid Chevy Equinox model years 2010–2013 due to widespread problems with excessive oil consumption, engine issues, and stalling. Other years to be cautious about are the first generation models 2005–2008, which had issues like head gasket failures, and the 2015 model, which had a dangerous airbag defect. 
Specific model years to avoid

• 2005–2008: First-generation models, particularly the 2005, experienced significant engine problems like head gasket failures. 
• 2010–2013: This range is highly problematic for the second generation, with the 2.4L four-cylinder engine being especially prone to excessive oil consumption, stalling, and other engine damage. 
• 2015: A dangerous airbag defect was a major issue, where the front seat-mounted side impact airbag inflator could rupture on deployment. 
• 2018: The first year of a redesigned generation had issues with the powertrain, including a potential problem with the right front intermediate drive shaft fracturing. 

Common issues across various model years

• Oil Consumption: Primarily affects the 2010–2017 models, requiring frequent oil additions. 
• Transmission Problems: Reported in some models from 2011–2012 and 2010-2015 models with the 3.6L V6. 
• Electrical and Battery Issues: Occurred in the 2015 model, and 2005 models had ignition switch problems. 
• Brake and Fuel System Issues: Specific defects in some models, such as brake caliper issues in 2020 models, and a fuel pump problem in 2021-2024 models. 

Which models are safer to buy

• First generation (2008–2009): These are considered better options within the first generation. 
• Third generation (2017 onwards): Models from 2017, and especially 2019–2021, are considered more reliable, with 2019 being the first year after the 2018 redesign. 

Is the Chevy Equinox a safe vehicle?

Safety Ratings and Features
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has awarded the Equinox a 5-star overall safety rating, underscoring its commitment to passenger protection.

What are the cons of a Chevy Equinox?

Common cons for the Chevy Equinox include issues with engine and transmission problems (especially in certain model years), a noisy cabin due to road and wind noise, unrefined ride quality, and disappointing fuel economy in some versions. Specific problems like excessive oil consumption, clattering noises at startup, and a weak sound system have also been reported.
 
This video discusses some reasons to avoid the 2024 Chevy Equinox: 1mMotor FutureYouTube · Jan 20, 2024
Engine and performance

• Engine and transmission issues: Some model years have a history of major problems, such as transmission failures, blown head gaskets, and excessive oil consumption. 
• Slow performance: The engine can be underpowered, especially for merging or accelerating on inclines, and the acceleration can feel delayed. 
• Engine noise: The engine can be loud and clunky. 
• Poor fuel economy: Fuel efficiency is sometimes disappointing, particularly in base models. 
• Start-stop system: The automatic start-stop system is sometimes described as unrefined. 

This video explains why the 2024 Chevy Equinox is not recommended: 51sOverdrive ReviewsYouTube · May 2, 2024
Ride and cabin

• Noisy cabin: The Equinox can be loud inside due to wind and road noise. 
• Rough ride: The ride quality is often described as unrefined and can be bumpy over imperfect roads. 
• Vibration: Some owners report vibrations in the steering wheel and accelerator pedal. 
• Sound system: The standard sound system is a common complaint, with users finding it lacks bass and clarity. 
• Uncomfortable seats: Some owners find the seats uncomfortable for long drives. 

Reliability and safety

• Check engine light: The "check engine" light frequently activates on some models. 
• Electrical issues: The vehicle has been subject to electrical problems. 
• Safety concerns: Some specific model years have had recalls and reports of safety issues, such as stalling and brake warnings. 
• LATCH system: Earlier models, particularly the 2017, had a poorly designed LATCH system for child seats. 

This video discusses the pros and cons of the 2023 Chevy Equinox: 55sThe Ben Hardy ShowYouTube · Dec 1, 2022

What is the #1 safest SUV?

There is no single "number one" safest SUV, as safety rankings vary by organization and vehicle class. However, many SUVs are recognized for outstanding safety, with the 2025 Kia Telluride https://www.motor and 2025 Mazda CX-70 earning both IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and 5-star NHTSA ratings. Other top contenders include the 2025 Mazda CX-50, 2025 Acura MDX, and 2025 Honda CR-V. 
Top-rated SUVs for safety

• Kia Telluride: This midsize SUV receives a 5-star NHTSA overall score and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2025. It's praised for a comprehensive suite of standard safety features and a strong performance in crash tests. 
• Mazda CX-70 and CX-90: These models are recognized with IIHS Top Safety Pick+ ratings for 2025, with excellent performance in small overlap front and other crash tests. 
• Mazda CX-50: The 2025 model earned a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. It scores well in crashworthiness and has a good pedestrian collision avoidance system. 
• Acura MDX: A luxury midsize option that earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick status. Its standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control are highly rated. 
• Honda CR-V: While the specific safety awards can vary by year, the CR-V is frequently highlighted for its strong safety performance, particularly in the compact SUV category. The Honda Sensing suite is noted for its effective and usable safety features. 

How to choose the safest SUV

• Check crash test ratings: Look at the ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to see how a specific vehicle performs in various crash tests. 
• Look at safety features: Consider which safety and driver-assist features are most important to you, such as automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. 
• Consider your needs: The "safest" SUV depends on your individual needs. A family-friendly, three-row SUV like the Kia Telluride may be ideal for a larger family, while a smaller, more nimble option might be better for city driving.