What are the cons of a Chevy Equinox?
Bottom line: The most commonly cited drawbacks are transmission reliability concerns, interior quality issues, and infotainment glitches, with variations by model year and generation. These factors can influence maintenance costs and overall ownership experience.
Beyond the basics, the Equinox has offered strong value, cargo space, and available all-wheel drive, but potential buyers should weigh these disadvantages across generations. This article surveys the main drawbacks and what shoppers should watch for when evaluating a used or new Equinox.
Common drawbacks across generations
What follows highlights the most frequently reported downsides across Equinox models, drawn from owner feedback and general reliability data.
- Transmission reliability and shifting behavior, including reports of harsh shifts or unexpected transmission failures on some powertrains
- Variable fuel economy, with real-world results often lower than sticker estimates—especially with turbo or AWD configurations
- Aging interior materials and perceived lower refinement in older model years
- Infotainment and electronics glitches, touchscreen sensitivity issues, and occasional system freezes
- Ride quality and NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) that can feel firm or coarse on rough pavement
- Safety tech availability and performance that can lag behind newer rivals, depending on year and trim
- Potential maintenance costs and more frequent repairs as the vehicle racks up miles, particularly for older generations
Understanding these issues can help buyers plan inspections, budget for potential maintenance, and set realistic expectations for ownership.
Generation-specific caveats
Issues tend to cluster by generation. The overview below summarizes the most commonly reported concerns in each era.
First-generation models (roughly 2005–2017)
Older Equinox models are more prone to traditional GM reliability concerns, with a focus on transmission health and wear items as the vehicle ages. Interiors may show more signs of wear, and some early tech features lag behind modern standards.
- Transmission wear and related failures on certain engines and configurations
- Oil leaks or gasket/sealing issues that become more noticeable with age
- Aging interior plastics and fading or cracking materials
- Infotainment systems and basic safety features that feel dated compared with newer rivals
For shoppers of first-generation Equinox models, a meticulous pre-purchase inspection focusing on the transmission, cooling system, and overall drivetrain health is advised.
Second-generation models (roughly 2018–2021/2022)
The newer generation introduced turbocharged engines and more advanced technology, but it also brought newer reliability questions and ongoing recalls in some units.
- Turbocharged engines (1.5L and 2.0L) with potential oil consumption or long-term reliability concerns in certain examples
- 9-speed automatic transmission with reports of quirky shifting behavior in some configurations
- Infotainment glitches or slower response in earlier software updates
- Ride and NVH characteristics that can feel busier than non-turbo rivals
As with any newer model, verify software updates, recall statuses for your VIN, and a clean bill of health from a trusted mechanic before purchase.
What to watch when buying a used Equinox
Before pulling the trigger, consider these checks to minimize risk and avoid costly surprises.
- Review complete service history and confirm recall/status for your VIN
- Assess transmission health: history of shifting issues, hesitations, or harsh shifts
- Evaluate turbo engine behavior and look for signs of oil consumption or unusual exhaust smoke
- Test the infotainment system, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration
- Inspect interior and seating for wear, and check for rust or suspension wear on higher-mileage examples
Engaging a qualified technician for a pre-purchase inspection and obtaining a vehicle history report can help you avoid hidden problems and better negotiate price.
Summary
In summary, the Chevy Equinox can deliver solid practicality and value in the compact-SUV segment, but buyers should be mindful of potential downsides. Transmission reliability, interior quality on older models, and infotainment/tech reliability are the most frequently reported concerns, with some generation-specific caveats. By researching the model year, inspecting thoroughly, and verifying recall status, buyers can balance the Equinox’s strengths against its drawbacks and make a well-informed decision.
