What is the most common problem with the 2017 Chevy Equinox?

The 2017 Chevy Equinox, a popular compact SUV, has faced several common issues that owners have reported. The most prevalent problem with this model year appears to be related to the vehicle's transmission.

Transmission Issues

According to multiple sources, the most common problem with the 2017 Chevy Equinox is related to its transmission. Many owners have reported issues with the transmission, including:

• Rough or jerky shifting


• Delayed or hesitant acceleration


• Transmission slipping or failing prematurely

These transmission problems can be frustrating and potentially dangerous for drivers, as they can affect the vehicle's overall performance and drivability.

Other Reported Issues

In addition to the transmission problems, owners of the 2017 Chevy Equinox have also reported other common issues, including:

• Electrical system malfunctions, such as issues with the infotainment system or dashboard lights


• Engine problems, including stalling or loss of power


• Suspension and steering issues, leading to a rough or unstable ride

While these problems may not be as widespread as the transmission issues, they can still be frustrating for owners and potentially impact the overall driving experience.

Addressing the Problems

If you own a 2017 Chevy Equinox and are experiencing any of these common problems, it's important to take the vehicle to a qualified mechanic or Chevrolet dealership for diagnosis and repair. Many of these issues may be covered under the vehicle's warranty, so it's worth exploring that option before incurring significant out-of-pocket expenses.

By addressing these problems promptly, you can help ensure your 2017 Chevy Equinox continues to provide a safe and reliable driving experience for years to come.

What is the engine lawsuit on the 2017 Chevy Equinox?

Class actions have been filed regarding the 2010-2017 Chevrolet Equinox SUVs equipped with 2.4-liter Ecotec engines. One lawsuit claims the Ecotec engine burns too much oil and causes low oil pressure, knocking, fouled spark plugs, damage to the timing chains and complete engine failure.

Does a 2017 Chevy Equinox have any problems?

Yes, the 2017 Chevy Equinox has a lot of problems, primarily concerning its engine, particularly the 2.4L Ecotec engine, which is known for excessive oil consumption, potential timing chain failure, and engine stalling. These issues often stem from worn piston rings or faulty crankcase ventilation systems and can lead to more serious damage, including engine failure. 
Common problems

• Excessive oil consumption: The engine can burn oil at a high rate, sometimes requiring oil to be added every 1,000 miles. 
• Engine stalling: The vehicle can stall while driving or idling due to issues with components like the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors. 
• Timing chain failure: The high oil consumption can cause low oil pressure, which can lead to timing chain issues. 
• Piston ring defects: Worn piston rings are a common cause of the excessive oil consumption problem. 
• Engine failure: In severe cases, the combination of oil consumption and other engine issues can lead to complete engine failure. 

Other potential issues

• Suspension and steering: Some owners report clunking or shaking from the front suspension, which can be caused by worn components like lower control arm bushings.
• Wheel bearings: A bad wheel bearing can cause a humming sound at higher speeds and may also cause the ABS or traction control warning light to illuminate. 

How many miles should a 2017 Chevy Equinox last?

A 2017 Chevy Equinox can last for 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance, potentially up to 250,000 miles, which could be 13 to 17 years if driven about 15,000 miles per year. The lifespan is heavily dependent on consistent maintenance, driving habits, and avoiding harsh conditions, with the second generation (2010-2017) having a "fair" reliability rating, though many owners report good experiences with this year.
 
Factors influencing lifespan

• Maintenance: Following the manufacturer's recommended service schedule, including regular oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial for extending the vehicle's life. 
• Driving Habits: Aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, puts more stress on components than smooth driving. 
• Model Year: While the 2010-2017 generation has a "fair" reliability rating, the 2017 model year is considered one of the stronger years in that generation. 
• Environmental Factors: Driving in harsh climates with road salt can lead to rust and corrosion, so regular washing, especially of the undercarriage, is important. 

Potential issues and solutions

• Engine and component issues: Common problems can include issues with the engine, high-pressure fuel pumps, or water pumps. 
• Costly repairs: Replacing major components like an engine can be expensive, so consider purchasing an extended warranty if you plan to keep the vehicle long-term, especially for models with over 80,000 miles. 
• Parts quality: Using high-quality, genuine OEM parts for repairs is more likely to result in a more durable fix than using cheaper aftermarket parts. 

What are bad years for Chevy Equinox?

Years to avoid for the Chevy Equinox are primarily 2010-2017, which were plagued by widespread engine problems like oil consumption, and earlier models like 2005-2008, which had lower reliability. For the third generation, the 2018 and 2022 models also stand out as problematic due to software issues and recalls. 
Years to avoid

• 2005-2008: These early models had numerous complaints and reliability issues compared to later years. 
• 2010-2017: This second generation is widely considered the least reliable due to significant engine problems, including excessive oil consumption, stalling, and timing chain failures, especially with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder and 3.0-liter V6 engines. 
• 2018: This model year had software issues that would cause the check engine light to come on unnecessarily. 
• 2022: This year was affected by multiple recalls for issues like seat-bolt, fuel-pump, and child-seat anchors. 

Years to consider (with caution)

• 2009: Considered the best of the first generation, as the final year fixed some earlier flaws and added safety features. 
• 2014-2017: While still part of the problematic second generation, these years had fewer oil consumption issues than earlier years in that period. The V6 and newer turbocharged engines from later generations are more reliable than the 2.4L four-cylinder option. 
• 2019-2021 & 2023: These are generally considered better years for the third generation, but be aware of some recalls and other complaints that still occurred during this time. 
• 2024: This is a final model year for the current generation, and while it may be affordable, some sources note it as unrefined and underpowered with its base 1.5L engine. 
• 2025: This marks the start of the fourth generation and some sources suggest it may not have fixed many of the issues from previous years, making it a potentially weaker option compared to other SUVs on the market.