Is a Chevrolet Equinox a dependable car?

Across model years, the Equinox has earned a reputation for solid practicality and reasonable ownership costs, but reliability isn't uniform. The overall verdict is nuanced: many owners report dependable service, while certain generations experienced notable mechanical or electronic problems that affect dependability. This article synthesizes reliability data and owner feedback up to 2024–2025, drawing on Consumer Reports ratings, J.D. Power scores, and recall histories to help you evaluate a used Equinox.

How dependability varies by generation

The Equinox has gone through two major generations since its 2005 debut. Reliability trends differ between them, shaping what buyers should look for today.

Key trends by generation include the following, with caveats that individual years differ.

• First-generation models (roughly 2005–2017) are known for varied reliability; some years are fine, while others faced higher repair needs tied to transmissions, engines, or electrical systems. The diversity of models and updates during this period means dependability can differ significantly from one used example to the next.


• Second-generation models (2018–present) generally show improvements in refinement and reliability, with more modern electronics and safer maintenance profiles. However, some owners still report infotainment quirks and service campaigns that should be checked before purchase.

Conclusion: When shopping used Equinoxes, focus on the specific model year’s reliability history, maintenance records, and whether any recalls have been completed.

Independent reliability assessments

Reliability scores from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power vary by year, reflecting different sample sizes and issues reported by owners. Here’s a high-level view of what these sources have found for the Equinox over the years.

• Consumer Reports typically places the Equinox in the average-to-below-average range for reliability, with later small updates improving overall quality but not universally pushing every year into the top tier.


• J.D. Power’s ratings for the Equinox have generally hovered around the mid-range for compact SUVs, with some model years earning better reliability scores than others. These scores emphasize drivetrain, electrical, and interior components as common fault areas.

Conclusion: If you’re shopping, check the latest year-by-year CR and J.D. Power scores for the exact model year you’re considering, since a single year can significantly affect overall reliability impressions.

Common problems reported by owners

Typical issues across generations

Owner surveys and recall data point to several recurring themes that have affected dependability across some Equinox models.

• Transmission and drivetrain concerns in some older generations, including occasional hard shifts or software-related transmission behavior.


• Electrical and infotainment glitches, such as touchscreen or climate-control problems, reported in various years, often tied to software updates or module failures.


• Engine-related concerns in certain engines and model years, including oil consumption or unexpected maintenance needs, though these are not universal across all units.

Conclusion: While issues exist, many owners experience trouble-free ownership with regular maintenance and timely repairs. Always verify recall completion and service history before purchase.

Buying tips and maintenance for dependability

To maximize the chances of owning a dependable Equinox, consider these practical steps when buying or owning one.

• Check the full service history and verify that any open recalls have been addressed on the specific vehicle using the VIN—this can significantly affect reliability and resale value.


• Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection, focusing on the powertrain, transmission, brakes, suspension, and electrical systems to catch issues before they become costly repairs.


• Prefer a model year with a documented track record of fewer major problems, and ensure routine maintenance has been performed on schedule (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid services).


• Consider model-year-specific issues reported by owners in your region and read the latest consumer reviews for the exact year you’re evaluating.

Conclusion: Diligence in inspection and documentation substantially improves the odds of getting a dependable Equinox.

Summary

In short, a Chevrolet Equinox can be a dependable family SUV, but reliability hinges on the specific year and maintenance history. Newer generations tend to be more reliable, while certain older models require careful shopping and thorough pre-purchase checks. As with any used vehicle, a well-documented service history and completion of recalls make a big difference in long-term dependability.

What is the most common problem with Equinox?

The most common problems with the Chevy Equinox include excessive oil consumption and engine-related issues like timing chain and head gasket failures. Other frequent complaints are transmission failure, A/C and heater problems, and various electrical issues. 
Engine and powertrain issues

• Excessive oil consumption: Some models are known for consuming more oil than usual, which can lead to serious engine damage if not regularly monitored. 
• Blown head gasket: This can cause overheating and potential engine failure. 
• Timing chain failure: The timing chain can wear out prematurely, leading to breakdowns and catastrophic engine damage. 
• Transmission problems: Issues range from rough shifting and fluid leaks to complete transmission failure. 

Other common problems

• Heating and A/C issues: Some models experience a lack of cold air, A/C leaks, or intermittent heating failures. 
• Electrical problems: Owners have reported a range of electrical issues, from infotainment glitches to problems with the battery and charging system. 
• Throttle body issues: A common problem on some models is a faulty throttle body causing "Engine Power Reduced" messages and a loss of acceleration. 

What to do if you own an Equinox

• Regularly check and top off your oil. 
• Be mindful of any unusual noises, especially during acceleration or when shifting gears. 
• Pay attention to dashboard warning lights, like the check engine light, and have them diagnosed promptly. 

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. 

What year does Equinox have transmission problems?

On the other hand, the worst years for Chevrolet Equinox, such as 2005–2008 and 2010–2013, were often linked to engine problems, transmission failures, or heavy oil use.

What year of Chevy Equinox is the most reliable?

The most reliable Chevy Equinox years are generally considered to be 2019-2021, with the 2014-2015 models also recommended for their improvements over previous years. The 2009 model is noted for its strong engine, and newer models like the 2022 and 2023 also have high reliability ratings from sources like J.D. Power and Cars.com.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the reliability and performance of the Chevrolet Equinox: 59sSoCal ChevyYouTube · Oct 14, 2023
Most reliable model years

• 2009: Recommended for its strong engine. 
• 2014–2015: Noted for significant reliability improvements. 
• 2019–2021: Considered the most dependable in the current generation, with high ratings from sources like Okotoks Chevrolet Buick GMC Ltd.. 
• 2022: Has high reliability ratings from J.D. Power and positive reviews for its updated features and performance. 
• 2023: Holds a 4.2 out of 5 reliability rating according to Cars.com consumer reviews. 

What to watch out for

• Avoid early years of each generation, as they often had more issues. 
• Be aware of potential oil consumption problems in 2010-2017 models. 
• Early models from 2018 had some concerns with brakes and electronics.