Is a Chevy Equinox automatic?

The Chevrolet Equinox uses automatic transmissions across its model history, and there has never been a factory manual option for this SUV. In other words, if you’re shopping for an Equinox, you’ll be looking at automatic gearboxes.

How the transmission has evolved

The Equinox has been paired with automatic gearboxes in every generation. Over the years GM shifted through several automatic transmissions to balance efficiency, performance, and drivetrain options. Here's a quick look at how the transmissions have changed by era.

• Early generations (roughly 2005–2010) relied on conventional automatic transmissions with multiple gears, varying by engine and trim level.


• Mid-generation updates introduced six-speed automatics for many engines, improving shift quality and efficiency.


• In the late 2010s, GM rolled out higher‑speed automatics (including 9‑speed units) on more engines to boost fuel economy and overall performance.

All Equinox models, regardless of engine choice, have relied on automatic transmissions; there has not been a manual version offered to consumers.

Current model availability and what to expect

In recent model years, the Equinox trims have paired front‑wheel drive or all‑wheel drive with automatic transmissions. Engine options include turbocharged four‑cylinder variants, with the transmission matched to balance performance and efficiency. There is no manual transmission option in the current lineup.

How to identify an automatic Equinox

When shopping or inspecting a used Equinox, you can confirm it uses an automatic transmission by looking for a traditional gear selector labeled P, R, N, D (and sometimes S or +/- for manual shift), a lack of a clutch pedal, and a torque‑converter based gearbox behind the transmission. These cues indicate an automatic transmission rather than a manual one.

Maintenance and reliability notes

Regular maintenance of the transmission includes following GM’s service intervals for fluid checks and changes, especially on higher-mileage vehicles or turbocharged powertrains where transmission heat is a factor. Be alert for symptoms like slipping, hard or delayed shifting, clunking noises, or abnormal engagement issues, which can indicate fluid problems or internal wear. Always use the recommended transmission fluid type and schedule maintenance with a qualified technician.

Summary: The Chevy Equinox is an automatic-only SUV across its generations, with various automatic transmissions used over time and no factory manual option. Buyers should expect front- or all-wheel-drive configurations paired with automatic gearboxes, along with routine maintenance to keep the transmission performing smoothly.

How do I automatic start my Chevy Equinox?

But uh then after that you're gonna press that little circle button there you're going to press and hold it for about 3 seconds. So you lock twice. Press and hold. Starts just like that.

Is the Chevy Equinox manual or automatic?

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox comes packed with advanced technology, exceptional performance features, and premium amenities. Available in either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, this compact SUV is powered by a 1.5L turbo engine and 6-speed automatic transmission with a manual shifting mode.

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

Why is the Equinox so cheap?

Chevy Equinox models are perceived as cheap due to their high production volume, which floods the used market with supply from lease returns and former rental fleets. This high supply, combined with factors like lower resale value compared to some competitors and the vehicle's general affordability as a new model, contributes to their low price. While older models may have reliability issues, newer ones are generally well-regarded for their value, especially the electric version which benefits from federal tax credits.
 
Factors contributing to low price

• High production volume: Chevrolet produces the Equinox in high numbers, creating a large supply on the market, especially for used models. 
• Abundance of used vehicles: The large number of used vehicles from fleet sales (like rental cars) and high-volume lease returns saturates the used market, driving prices down. 
• Lower resale value: The Equinox's value depreciates faster than some competitors, which is a major reason for its lower price on the used market. 
• Affordability as a new vehicle: Even when new, the Equinox is competitively priced, especially compared to other SUVs, making it an accessible option. 
• Fleet sales: Many rental companies purchase Equinox SUVs, and when these vehicles are resold after a short period, they significantly increase the number of used Equinoxes on the market, contributing to lower prices. 
• Electric vehicle incentives: The new Equinox EV can be significantly more affordable due to federal tax credits, which can bring the starting price down to under $28,000$ 28 comma 000$28,000. 

Reliability and value

• Mixed reliability: Older models of the Equinox had known issues, such as engine and transmission problems in certain years, which can make them less reliable and contributes to their lower price on the used market. 
• Improved newer models: Newer gas models are generally more reliable and hold their value better, and the 2024 model is considered a decent value for the money. 
• Strong value proposition: Despite its reliability quirks, the Equinox is still a popular choice due to its affordable price point and strong value, especially when considering the cost of ownership over time.