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Is the Chevy Equinox made in the USA?

The short answer: no. The current Chevrolet Equinox is not assembled in the United States; production sources for recent generations are in Canada and Mexico rather than U.S. factories. This status can shift with GM’s manufacturing decisions, so it’s wise to verify the specific model year you’re considering.


The question taps into GM’s cross-border manufacturing approach for North American models. Below is a clear look at where the Equinox is built, how to confirm a vehicle’s origin, and what that means for buyers and workers alike.


Current production footprint


GM operates Equinox assembly at plants outside the United States, with these sites historically handling North American supply for this model.



  • CAMI Assembly, Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada

  • Ramos Arizpe Assembly, Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila, Mexico


Note: Plant assignments can change with model-year updates and corporate production decisions. Always check the specific vehicle’s paperwork or GM’s current production data for the exact plant of origin.


How to verify the origin of a specific Equinox


To determine where a particular Equinox was built, you can check the vehicle’s VIN and the window sticker. The VIN’s plant code identifies the assembly facility, while the window sticker indicates the country and plant for that vehicle.



  • VIN check: Locate the 11th character (the plant code) in the 17-character VIN to identify the manufacturing plant.

  • Window sticker: Look for the “Manufactured in” line on the sticker for the model year’s country and plant location.


If you have questions about a specific car, contact Chevrolet customer service or reference GM’s official documentation for that model year.


Implications for buyers and workers


The absence of a dedicated U.S. assembly line for the Equinox reflects GM’s broader North American production strategy—delivering vehicles to the U.S. market from Canadian and Mexican plants. Vehicles produced in these locations still meet U.S. standards, warranties, and consumer protections.


GM’s manufacturing footprint can evolve with investments or shifts in demand, so future model years could see changes in where the Equinox is produced.


Summary


In sum, the Chevy Equinox is not produced in a U.S. factory for current model years; it is built primarily at CAMI Assembly in Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada, and at Ramos Arizpe in Mexico for North American markets, including the United States. To be sure about a specific vehicle, check the VIN and window sticker for the exact plant of origin, and stay updated with GM’s production announcements.

What's the most common problem with the Chevy Equinox?


The most common issues include:

  • Excessive oil consumption: Many owners report the engine rapidly burns or leaks oil, requiring frequent top-offs and risking severe engine damage if not closely monitored.
  • Timing chain failure: Early timing chain wear or breakage can cause catastrophic engine damage and sudden breakdowns.



Are Chevy Equinox made in America?


Yes, but it's a recent change for the new gas-powered Equinox, which will start being built in America in 2027. For now, the gas-powered model is manufactured in Mexico, while a different plant in Mexico makes the Equinox EV. Previous models were assembled in Canada and the United States, but some U.S. production is set to resume in 2027.
 
Current production (2025)

  • Gas-powered Equinox: Manufactured in Mexico at the San Luis Potosí plant.
  • Equinox EV: Built in Mexico. 

Future production (Starting in 2027)
  • Gas-powered Equinox: Production will move to the Fairfax Assembly plant in Kansas, alongside the Bolt EV. 



Which car is 100% made in the USA?


No car sold in the U.S. is entirely made in America using only parts made in America. Not one single vehicle. Many vehicles from American companies, like Ford, Chevy, and Stellantis (which owns brands like Jeep and Ram), are assembled in Canada and Mexico.



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. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.