What is the voltage on a Chevy Equinox?

The Chevy Equinox uses a standard 12-volt electrical system. There is no high‑voltage traction battery in typical gas-powered models, and the charging voltage you should see is around 13.8 to 14.4 volts when the engine is running, with the resting battery voltage around 12.6 to 12.8 volts when the engine is off.

Understanding the Equinox's electrical setup

Newer Equinox models rely on a 12-volt lead-acid battery for starting, lighting, and accessory power, plus an alternator to keep the battery topped up once the engine is running. This is the same arrangement found in most non-hybrid passenger cars. Knowing the expected voltage helps diagnose starter or charging problems and ensures the electrical system stays reliable over time.

Is there a high-voltage battery in the Equinox?

For the vast majority of Equinox models sold in recent years, the vehicle does not use a high-voltage battery. Only plug-in hybrids or dedicated electric vehicles incorporate high‑voltage traction packs, and the Equinox lineup has not been offered as a factory plug-in hybrid or all-electric model in the United States during its recent generations. The standard Equinox operates on a 12‑volt system instead.

Typical voltage ranges you should expect

These voltage ranges reflect normal operation and can help you spot potential issues with the battery or charging system.

• Resting voltage with the engine off: about 12.6 to 12.8 volts for a healthy 12V battery.


• Voltage with the engine running and the alternator charging: typically around 13.8 to 14.4 volts.


• Under heavy electrical load or extreme cold, voltage may drop slightly during operation but should recover toward the charging target as loads are managed.

Concluding: A healthy charging system maintains the battery around the resting level when off and the mid‑14s voltage when the engine is running. Persistent readings outside these ranges warrant a check of the battery, alternator, and related wiring.

Common questions and troubleshooting tips

These quick checks can help you interpret readings and decide when service might be needed.

• What should the voltage be with the engine off? Aim for roughly 12.6–12.8 volts; significantly lower readings can indicate a discharged or failing battery or parasitic drain.


• What about when the engine is running? Expect about 13.8–14.4 volts; readings outside this range could point to issues with the alternator, voltage regulator, or wiring.


• Do hybrids or plug‑ins affect voltage? The standard Equinox models use a 12‑volt system for starting and accessories. If you own or are evaluating a hybrid or electric version, different high‑voltage systems apply and require specialized diagnostics.

Concluding: If voltage readings are consistently abnormal, have the battery and charging system tested by a qualified technician to avoid stalling, battery damage, or persistent electrical faults.

Summary

In short, the Chevy Equinox operates on a 12‑volt electrical system. When the engine is running, you should typically see about 13.8 to 14.4 volts from the alternator, and around 12.6 to 12.8 volts with the engine off. There is no standard high‑voltage battery in non-hybrid Equinox models, so voltage readings focus on the 12‑volt system. Regular checks help ensure the charging system remains healthy and reliable.

What is the normal battery voltage for a Chevy Equinox?

A fully charged Chevy Equinox battery should read around 12.612.612.6 volts with the engine off (resting voltage). When the engine is running, the alternator should boost the voltage to approximately 13.513.513.5 to 14.514.514.5 volts to charge the battery and power the electrical system. 
This video explains what "Service Battery Charging System" means and its potential causes: 56sNexologyYouTube · Aug 27, 2025
Battery voltage readings

• Engine off: A healthy, fully charged battery should be about 12.612.612.6 volts. 
• Engine running: The voltage should increase to the 13.513.513.5 to 14.514.514.5 volt range, indicating the alternator is functioning correctly. If the voltage stays below 121212 volts while running, there could be an issue with the alternator. 

What to do if you see low voltage

• Check the connections: Make sure the battery terminals are clean and tight. 
• Test the alternator: If the voltage does not rise when the engine is running, the alternator may be failing. You can have it tested for free at an auto parts store. 
• Consider the battery age: Batteries typically last 3 to 5 years, so if yours is older, it might need to be replaced. 

You can watch this video to learn how to test the battery and alternator: 56sHVAC Mechanic YouTube · Dec 8, 2022

What voltage does the Equinox use to charge?

Can I charge the Chevy Equinox EV at home? Yes, you can charge the Equinox EV at home using a standard Level 1 120-volt outlet, which provides about 4 miles of range per hour of charge. You can install a Level 2 240-volt charger for faster charging, offering around 23 miles of range per hour of charge.

Is 14.7 volts too high for an alternator on a Chevy?

Is 14.7 volts too high for an alternator? The normal voltage range for a properly functioning alternator is generally considered between 13.5 and 14.5 volts as long as there is no additional or major load on it.

What voltage is my car supposed to be at?

12.4-12.9 volts
Check the voltage.
A good car battery should read 12.4-12.9 volts when the car is off. Anything lower doesn't necessarily mean the battery is bad. Your car's electrical system may have drained it, or there may be an issue with your alternator.