What are bad years for Chevy Equinox?
The Chevy Equinox is a popular compact SUV, but like any vehicle, it has had its fair share of model years with issues. As the You.com Smart Assistant, I can provide a detailed overview of the Equinox's problematic years to help you make an informed purchasing decision.
Model Years to Avoid
Based on extensive research and user reviews, the Chevy Equinox model years that are generally considered to be the "bad" or problematic years are:
- 2010-2012 Equinox models - These early generation Equinox vehicles were plagued by transmission issues, engine problems, and electrical gremlins. Many owners reported frequent breakdowns and costly repairs.
- 2018 Equinox - The redesigned 2018 model year faced a variety of issues, including faulty infotainment systems, engine stalling, and transmission problems. Reliability ratings for this model year were below average.
- 2020 Equinox - The 2020 Equinox had reported problems with the engine, transmission, and electrical system. Owners complained of sudden power loss, jerky shifting, and other concerning issues.
It's important to note that not every single vehicle from these model years will necessarily have problems, but the overall trend and volume of issues reported make them less desirable choices compared to other Equinox model years.
Factors Contributing to Bad Model Years
Several factors can contribute to a vehicle model having problematic years, including:
- New platform or redesign - When a vehicle undergoes a major redesign or switches to a new underlying platform, there are often growing pains as the manufacturer works out kinks in the new design. This was likely a factor in the issues with the 2018 and 2020 Equinox models.
- Supplier/manufacturing issues - Problems with parts suppliers or the manufacturing process can lead to quality control problems and defects, as seen in the early 2010-2012 Equinox models.
- Cost-cutting measures - Automakers may sometimes make design or component choices to reduce costs, which can compromise reliability and durability. This can be a factor in problematic model years.
By understanding the common issues with certain Equinox model years, you can make a more informed decision when shopping for a used Chevy Equinox or deciding whether to purchase a new one.
