Chevy Equinox Years to Avoid – The Chevy Equinox is a popular compact SUV that has been on the market since 2005. With its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and versatile cargo space, it’s no surprise that the Equinox has become a go-to choice for families and individuals alike.
However, like any vehicle, some model years of the Chevy Equinox have had more problems than others.
In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at the Chevy Equinox years to avoid and offer guidance on buying a reliable used model.
Chevy Equinox Overview
The Chevy Equinox was first introduced in 2005 as a replacement for the Chevrolet Tracker. Initially, it was only available in two trim levels: LS and LT.
The Equinox offered a spacious interior, comfortable ride, and decent fuel economy.
In 2010, Chevrolet introduced a second-generation Equinox with updated styling and features. Since then, Equinox has undergone several updates, with the most recent version released in 2021.
The Equinox has always been popular among car buyers, with many people drawn to its combination of space, comfort, and practicality.
As with any vehicle, some model years of the Chevy Equinox have been more problematic than others.
In the following sections, we will discuss some of the most common issues with Equinox and highlight the model years to avoid.
Common Issues With Chevy Equinox
While the Chevy Equinox is generally considered a reliable vehicle, there have been some issues reported with certain model years.
Some of the most common problems include:
1. Engine problems: Some Equinox models have experienced engine issues, including stalling, misfires, and excessive oil consumption. These issues are typically caused by faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors.
2. Transmission problems: Equinox models with automatic transmissions have been known to experience shifting problems, including harsh shifting and delayed engagement.
In some cases, the transmission may fail altogether, requiring expensive repairs or replacement.
3. Electrical problems: Many Equinox models have experienced electrical issues, including problems with the power windows, locks, and seats. In some cases, the electrical system may fail entirely, causing a wide range of problems.
4. Suspension problems: Equinox models have been known to experience suspension issues, including noise from the suspension and problems with the steering system. These issues can be caused by faulty ball joints, control arms, or tie rods.
5. Brake problems: Some Equinox models have experienced problems with the brakes, including premature wear and failure of the brake pads and rotors.
This can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty brake components, driving habits, and maintenance issues.
List of Chevy Equinox Years to Avoid
While many Chevy Equinox models are reliable, there are certain model years that are best avoided due to their high number of reported issues. The following are the Equinox model years that are most problematic:
2006 Chevy Equinox
The 2006 Chevy Equinox is known for its engine problems, with many owners reporting issues with stalling, misfires, and excessive oil consumption. In some cases, the engine may need to be completely replaced, which can be expensive.
2008 Chevy Equinox
The 2008 Equinox is known for its transmission problems, including harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and complete transmission failure. Some owners have reported that the transmission failed completely after just a few thousand miles.
2010 Chevy Equinox
The 2010 Equinox has been known to experience electrical problems, including problems with the power windows, locks, and seats. In some cases, the electrical system may fail completely, causing a wide range of issues.
2011 Chevy Equinox
The 2011 Equinox is known for its engine problems, with many owners reporting issues with excessive oil consumption, engine misfires, and stalling. In some cases, the engine may need to be completely replaced, which can be a significant expense.
2013 Chevy Equinox
The 2013 Equinox is known for its transmission problems, including slipping, delayed engagement, and complete transmission failure. Some owners have reported that the transmission failed completely after just a few thousand miles.
2014 Chevy Equinox
The 2014 Equinox has been known to experience suspension issues, including noise from the suspension and problems with the steering system. These issues can be caused by faulty ball joints, control arms, or tie rods.
2016 Chevy Equinox
The 2016 Equinox has been known to experience brake problems, including premature wear and failure of the brake pads and rotors.
This can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty brake components, driving habits, and maintenance issues.
It’s important to note that just because a particular model year of the Chevy Equinox has been problematic, it doesn’t mean that all vehicles from that year are bad.
If you’re considering buying a used Equinox from one of these model years, it’s important to be aware of the potential issues and to thoroughly inspect the vehicle before making a purchase.
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Chevy Equinox Models to Consider
While there are several Equinox model years to avoid, there are also many models that are reliable and worth considering. Here are some of the most dependable Equinox models:
2012 Chevy Equinox
The 2012 Equinox has been widely regarded as one of the most reliable models, with few reported issues. It offers a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and good fuel economy.
2015 Chevy Equinox
The 2015 Equinox is another reliable model, with few reported issues. It offers a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and good fuel economy.
2017 Chevy Equinox
The 2017 Equinox is a newer model that has been well-received by owners. It offers a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and good fuel economy, as well as a variety of advanced safety features.
2019 Chevy Equinox
The 2019 Equinox is another newer model that has received high marks for its reliability. It offers a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and good fuel economy, as well as a range of advanced features.
Tips for Buying A Used Chevy Equinox
If you’re considering buying a used Chevy Equinox, there are several things you can do to ensure that you’re getting a reliable vehicle. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Do your research: Before you start shopping for a used Equinox, do some research to find out which models are most reliable and which ones to avoid. Read reviews from owners and experts, and look for any recurring issues.
2. Inspect the vehicle: When you find a used Equinox that you’re interested in, be sure to thoroughly inspect the vehicle. Check for any signs of damage or wear and tear, and make sure all of the features and systems are working properly.
3. Get a pre-purchase inspection: Before you make a final decision on a used Equinox, consider getting a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic.
This can help you identify any potential issues and give you an idea of what repairs may be needed in the future.
4. Look for a reliable dealer: When buying a used car, it’s important to find a dealer that you can trust. Look for a dealer with a good reputation, and be sure to read reviews from previous customers.
What year Equinox is most reliable?
According to expert and owner reviews, the 2012 Chevy Equinox is considered the most reliable year.
What is the life mileage of a Chevy Equinox?
The life mileage of a Chevy Equinox can vary depending on maintenance, driving habits, and other factors. However, with proper care and maintenance, it is possible to get over 200,000 miles out of a Chevy Equinox.
Is Chevrolet Equinox a reliable car?
Overall, the Chevy Equinox is considered a reliable car. However, there have been some model years with known issues, as discussed in the article above.
What was the last year Chevy Equinox has a V6 engine?
The last year that the Chevy Equinox was offered with a V6 engine was 2017.
Do Chevy Equinoxes have transmission problems?
Some model years of the Chevy Equinox have had transmission problems, including slipping, delayed engagement, and complete transmission failure. However, not all Equinoxes have had these issues.
Which Equinox engine is best?
The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine offered in the 2018 and newer Equinox models is often considered the best engine option, offering good power and fuel economy.
Is Chevy Equinox high maintenance?
The maintenance costs for a Chevy Equinox can vary depending on the year, model, and mileage. However, overall, the Equinox is not considered a high-maintenance car.
Is Chevy Equinox expensive to fix?
The cost of repairs for a Chevy Equinox can vary depending on the issue and the year of the vehicle. Overall, the Equinox is not considered an expensive car to fix.
Is the Chevy Equinox good in snow?
The Chevy Equinox is generally considered to be good in snow, thanks to its available all-wheel-drive system and good ground clearance. As with any car, it is important to drive with caution in snowy or icy conditions.
Conclusion
The Chevy Equinox is a popular and practical SUV that can be a great choice for many drivers. However, as with any vehicle, there are certain model years that are more problematic than others.
By being aware of the Equinox models to avoid and considering more reliable models, you can make an informed decision when shopping for a used Chevy Equinox.
It’s important to do your research, thoroughly inspect any potential purchases, and consider getting a pre-purchase inspection to ensure that you’re getting a reliable vehicle.
With the right approach, you can find a used Chevy Equinox that meets your needs and provides years of trouble-free driving.
Remember, the Chevy Equinox is just one of many SUVs on the market, so be sure to explore all of your options before making a final decision.
By considering a variety of vehicles and doing your research, you can find the SUV that best meets your needs and budget. Happy shopping!