Is the Chevy Equinox a quiet ride?
The Chevy Equinox is generally a quiet ride for its class, especially on highways, with cabin insulation that helps keep wind and road noise at bay. Engine noise stays subdued at cruising speeds, though it can become more noticeable with stronger acceleration or certain tire choices.
This article explores what contributes to cabin quietness in the Equinox, how different trims and powertrains affect sound levels, and what buyers can expect in everyday use. It also offers practical considerations for choosing a model that suits a quiet, comfortable ride on daily commutes and longer trips.
What makes the Equinox quiet or loud
Noise inside a vehicle comes from several sources: the powertrain, tires, wind, and how well the cabin is insulated. In the Equinox, these elements vary by year and trim, so two similarly priced models can feel different on a long highway run.
Powertrain and engine options
The following list highlights how engine size and power behavior influence cabin quietness in typical Equinox models.
- Base and mid-range engines tend to be quiet at steady highway speed, with muffled engine notes during light acceleration.
- More powerful turbo options can produce more engine note or exhaust rasp when pushed, which can intrude on cabin calm at higher RPMs.
- Transmission behavior also matters: smooth shifts and relaxed throttle response help keep drone low during cruising.
- Turbocharged variants may require more engine speed to deliver performance, which can raise overall noise during brisk driving.
- Overall noise levels are higher when the vehicle is paired with larger wheels and low-profile tires that transmit more road surface into the cabin.
In practice, this means choosing a model with the engine you actually need and pairing it with tires that balance grip and quietness will yield the most tranquil cabin.
Real-world impressions
Across model years, reviewers report that the Equinox offers a comfortable, well-insulated cabin that is competitive with rivals in its class. Highway trips tend to be quiet, and wind noise remains modest, though some owners note noise can rise with rough pavement or poor-quality tires. For shoppers prioritizing quietness, higher trims with better insulation and appropriate tire choices tend to deliver the most serene experience.
Summary
The Chevy Equinox generally provides a quiet ride for a compact SUV, especially on highways and in mid-to-high trims. Engine noise stays well controlled at cruising speeds, but can become more noticeable during strong acceleration or with performance-oriented tires. When shopping, prioritize trims with better insulation and consider tires designed for quietness to maximize cabin calm on daily commutes and longer trips.
What are the disadvantages of the 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
Is the Equinox quiet?
Gain Peace of Mind With the Chevy Equinox's Quiet Interior
The latest Equinox may be powerful, but it's far from being obnoxious about it. Dominate your road trip agenda in a peaceful atmosphere with a quiet cabin layout curated for those in Mount Vernon who live for long drives.
Why is my Chevy Equinox so loud?
A loud Chevy Equinox is often caused by an exhaust system leak, which can result from a failing muffler, cracked pipes, or holes in the exhaust manifold. Other potential causes include low engine oil, worn accessory belts, and transmission or wheel bearing issues. To diagnose the exact problem, you should check your exhaust for leaks and listen for other symptoms.
Exhaust system issues
- Leaking exhaust: This is the most common cause and can create a louder, raspier sound, especially when accelerating.
- A failing muffler can develop holes from rust and salt, or internal damage.
- Exhaust manifolds can crack, particularly over time and with mileage.
- Leaks can be identified by a "roaring" or "ticking" sound, especially at the rear of the vehicle.
- Flex pipe issues: The flex pipe can also crack or become loose, contributing to exhaust noise.
Engine and accessory issues
- Low engine oil: A lack of lubrication can cause engine components to be louder. Check your oil level and consider an oil consumption test if needed.
- Worn accessory belts: Squealing or chirping sounds can indicate that the serpentine or accessory belts are loose or need replacing.
- Transmission problems: Some noises, like a whirring sound during acceleration, can be related to the transmission, especially on models with a CVT. This could be due to low fluid or internal issues with components like bearings.
Other potential causes
- Wheel bearings: A humming sound that changes with speed could point to a worn wheel bearing.
- Climate control: In some cases, a loud noise can come from the blend door actuator, a small motor that controls the climate control flaps.
- Tire/alignment issues: An off-wheel alignment could cause a tire to scrub and make noise.
This video explains how a cracked exhaust manifold can cause a loud noise when the engine is cold: 33sKurt's Auto YouTube · Jul 27, 2023
How to proceed
- 1. Check for obvious leaks: Visually inspect your exhaust system for any visible holes, cracks, or loose connections.
- 2. Check fluid levels: Verify the engine oil and transmission fluid levels are correct.
- 3. Listen carefully: Try to pinpoint the source of the sound. Does it only happen when accelerating? Does it sound like it's coming from the front, rear, or under the vehicle?
- 4. Get a professional diagnosis: If you can't find the source, have a mechanic inspect the vehicle, especially for exhaust leaks or transmission issues, as these can lead to more significant problems if left unaddressed.
Is the Chevy Equinox a quiet car?
It Provides a Comfortable and Quiet Ride
Active Noise Cancellation in the Equinox differentiates unwanted and wanted noise and cancels out the unwanted sounds. That leads to a quiet ride, enhancing the already comfortable ride quality even further.
