Is 2016 a good year for a Chevy Equinox?

Yes—it's a pragmatic, budget-friendly used SUV option for families who need space and versatility, but its age means average reliability and fewer modern safety features compared with newer rivals.

What makes the 2016 Equinox notable

The 2016 model sits in GM’s second-generation Equinox lineup, which prioritizes interior space, a comfortable ride, and a versatile cargo area. For buyers shopping used, the 2016 version often represents strong value relative to newer models, though it lags behind in in-cabin tech and the latest safety features.

Key features and options

In this year, buyers could expect a choice of engines, all-wheel drive availability, and a range of trims that affect interior amenities and technology. Prices on the used market tend to be attractive, but configuration and condition vary widely.

• Spacious interior: ample seating for five with generous cargo room and flexible folding configurations.


• Engine choices: a capable base four-cylinder and, in higher trims, a larger engine option for extra power.


• Equipment tiers: features vary by trim, with higher trims offering upgraded audio, leather seating, and creature comforts.

Bottom line: the Equinox delivers practicality and value, but verify the exact configuration and condition of any used vehicle before buying.

Reliability and ownership costs

On reliability, the 2016 Equinox generally lands in the middle of the pack for its class. Long-term ownership experiences are mixed, with some owners reporting typical wear and tear and others noting more significant issues. Prospective buyers should prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a complete maintenance history.

• Transmission and drivetrain: some owners report shifting irregularities or hesitations; a test drive can reveal how well the transmission behaves in real-world conditions.


• Engine wear and maintenance: while not universal, some users report higher-than-average maintenance needs; reviewing service records is important.


• Electrical and infotainment: older in-vehicle tech can be prone to glitches; test the radio, Bluetooth, and any navigation systems (if equipped).

Takeaway: with careful selection and documented maintenance, a 2016 Equinox can be affordable to own; anticipate potential repairs that may be more frequent than in newer SUVs.

Safety ratings and driver-assistance tech

Safety ratings for the 2016 Equinox are respectable for its era, but they don’t match the increasingly stringent standards of newer compact SUVs. Availability of advanced driver-assistance features depended on the trim and optional packages.

• Crash and safety testing: overall ratings from major agencies are solid for the period, though results vary by configuration.


• Active safety features: rearview cameras and certain driver-assistance features were offered on select trims or packages; more advanced systems were not universal.

For the most precise assessment, check the specific vehicle’s NHTSA and IIHS reports by VIN and trim level, as results can differ across configurations.

Alternatives to consider within a similar budget

If you’re weighing the 2016 Equinox against its peers, these models often offer stronger reliability or newer safety tech at comparable price points.

• 2016 Honda CR-V: renowned reliability, efficient fuel economy, strong resale value.


• 2016 Toyota RAV4: solid reliability, good standard safety features, comfortable ride.


• 2016 Ford Escape: engaging driving dynamics with available turbo engines; potential maintenance costs vary.


• 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe: larger interior, strong warranty, feature-rich for the price.

Tip: compare maintenance histories, mileage, and equipment, and consider a professional pre-purchase inspection to gauge the true condition of any used SUV.

Summary

The 2016 Equinox can be a sensible used-SUV purchase if you prioritize space, practicality, and price. Its reliability is average for the segment, and it trails newer rivals in areas like safety technology and interior modernization. If those enhancements are important to you, or if you want the latest driver-assistance features, you may want to explore later model years or rivals in the same budget range. A well-maintained example with thorough service history remains the best bet for a trouble-free ownership experience.

What is the best year of the Chevy Equinox to buy used?

The best used Chevy Equinox years to buy are 2019–2020, 2023, and 2009 due to good reliability and fewer reported problems. For the second generation (2010–2017), the years 2014–2015 are also good options. 
Highly Recommended Years

• 2019–2020: These years have strong reliability ratings, modern styling, and good safety scores. 
• 2023: This model year is a standout option within the third generation for overall reliability. 
• 2009: A solid choice from the first generation, known for fewer repair reports and good owner ratings. 
• 2014–2015: These are the best years within the second generation, avoiding many of the engine and transmission issues found in other models from that era. 

Models to Approach with Caution

• 2010–2017: This generation has several models with reports of excessive oil consumption, especially the 2.4L engines. 
• 2018: While this is the first year of the third generation, some early models with the 1.5L engine experienced issues like oil consumption and transmission problems. 

How to Choose

• Engine: If you choose a 2018–2020 model, consider the 2.0L turbo engine for better performance and to avoid potential issues with the 1.5L, as noted in Autotrader. 
• Features: To get modern features on a budget, look for RS or Premier trims from older models. 
• Research: Always check the specific vehicle's maintenance history before buying and consider an inspection by a trusted mechanic.

What is the most common problem with the 2016 Chevy Equinox?

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

• Exhaust. Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.
• Electrical Accessories.
• Engine Major.
• Suspension/Steering.
• Brakes.
• In-car Electronics.
• Engine Minor.
• Engine Cooling.

How many miles will a 2016 Equinox last?

A 2016 Chevy Equinox can be expected to last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, which typically translates to 13 to 17 years of service. While this is the average, some models with proper care have exceeded 200,000 miles. Factors like consistent maintenance, driving habits, and engine type significantly influence its lifespan.
 
Factors that affect lifespan

• Maintenance: Adhering to a regular maintenance schedule for oil changes, tire rotations, and other service is crucial for longevity. 
• Driving habits: Smoother driving habits put less stress on the engine and other components compared to aggressive driving. 
• Model year: The 2016 model year is considered more reliable than earlier years and has a better chance of reaching 200,000 miles. 
• Engine: The 2.4L four-cylinder engine in this model year is known to have potential issues, particularly with oil consumption, compared to the V6 or newer turbocharged engines. 

Tips to extend the life of your Equinox

• Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. 
• Drive smoothly to minimize wear and tear on the engine and other parts. 
• Address any minor problems as they arise before they become major issues. 
• If your Equinox has the 2.4L four-cylinder engine, be vigilant about checking and topping off the oil regularly. 

How much should I pay for a 2016 Chevy Equinox?

The average price for a used 2016 Chevrolet Equinox is around $9,700 to $9,900, based on listings from major car sites like Autotrader and CarGurus. Prices can range from approximately $2,800 to over $18,900 depending on the specific trim, condition, mileage, and location. 

Feature	Details
Average Price	~$9,800
Typical Price Range	~$2,800 - $18,900
Factors Affecting Price	Trim level, mileage, condition, and location

(function(){
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='_s_AlaYyGF5uG9u8P3KTgqQI_229';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();
How price varies

• Trim level: The LTZ trim has a higher original MSRP and will generally be more expensive than the base L, LS, or LT trims. 
• Condition and mileage: Lower mileage and better condition will result in a higher price. 
• Location: Prices can fluctuate based on regional demand and supply.