The Chevrolet Equinox was originally shown to the public for the first time in 2003 at the Detroit Motor Show. Because it is built on the same platform as the GM Theta, the unibody is mechanically equivalent to the Saturn Vue. On the other hand, the wheelbase of Equinox is 112.5 inches, which is 5.9 inches longer than the wheelbase of Vue.
All-wheel drive is an available upgrade, although it is not a prerequisite for purchase. These upgrades included the addition of GM badges to the doors and the transformation of the gray dashboard panel into a black one.
On December 21, 2008, General Motors presented the second generation of the Equinox to the public for the first time at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The Chevrolet Equinox for the year 2010 went on sale in June of 2009. The “Theta” platform that was used by the previous model has been modified to make it stiffer for the current model.
According to General Motors, the second-generation Equinox had a higher fuel economy than the original model that was available. After that, the General Motors badges that were formerly shown on the front doors of cars manufactured in early 2010 were deleted.
Both a 2.4-liter inline-four and a 3.0-liter V6 engine are available for the second generation of the Chevrolet Equinox as an available option. Both of the possible powertrains have front-wheel drive as their default, however, the all-wheel drive may be added as an option to either one of them or both of them.
First-generation Equinox years to avoid
- Years to avoid 2005 – 2007
- Best years 2008 – 2009
Because they were the first models of their generation, the Equinox’s worst car was the one produced from 2005 to 2007 had its share of problems. These model years did badly in the IIHS crash test in both the side and head restraints & seat categories, earning a grade that was anywhere from mediocre to below average.
The test was conducted on vehicles that were ten years old or older. Although the performance of the rear passenger seats was satisfactory, the performance of the front passenger seats was not. If you are looking for a family vehicle, you should steer clear of the 2005-2007 model years of the Chevrolet Equinox since safety is one of the most important aspects to consider when purchasing a new vehicle.
To save money or simply because you enjoy the first generation, you should concentrate on the 2008 and 2009 model years. Equinox’s best year for the first generation is 2009. On average, these were more dependable than the first three years of the first generation, which had several problems.
It was engine temperature rising that was the most widespread issue with the final two models of the first generation, and the average repair cost was roughly $700. For the first time, the 2008 model was given several significant enhancements, making this year a must-watch.
This is as far back as you should go for a used Equinox unless you’re willing to do some substantial repair on it or locate one with low miles.
Second generation Equinox years to avoid
- Years to avoid 2010 – 2012
- Best years 2013 – 2017
Certain vehicles manufactured between 2010 and 2017 are among the worst for gas consumption, lack of current technology, and malfunctioning safety systems. Those with a 2.4L engine, in particular, have poor fuel economy and significant engine replacement costs as compared to rivals.
Models from the first two years of the V6-powered Equinox’s initial two years of production are infamous for often need mechanical repairs. The 2017 model got negative ratings for its LATCH design, which is not a major safety problem for children in the rear.
A more user-friendly mechanism was added to the current design in more recent versions. The problem was that it consumed excessive oil, causing a lack of lubrication. This of course could lead to equinox engine problems, which is a costly fix.
These models of the car did not have the engine problems that the 2.4L version of the car had. These had a better fuel consumption making them a better option.
Equinox faults by year count
| Model Year | Number of Problems |
| 2022 Equinox | 5 |
| 2021 Equinox | 16 |
| 2020 Equinox | 122 |
| 2019 Equinox | 170 |
| 2018 Equinox | 284 |
| 2017 Equinox | 125 |
| 2016 Equinox | 234 |
| 2015 Equinox | 590 |
| 2014 Equinox | 524 |
| 2013 Equinox | 809 |
| 2012 Equinox | 825 |
| 2011 Equinox | 1,014 |
| 2010 Equinox | 1,025 |
| 2009 Equinox | 140 |
| 2008 Equinox | 479 |
| 2007 Equinox | 861 |
| 2006 Equinox | 848 |
| 2005 Equinox | 779 |
Equinox models to avoid
By analyzing the above table it is strongly advisable for you to avoid the mentioned models.
- 2015 Equinox
- 2014 Equinox
- 2013 Equinox
- 2012 Equinox
- 2011 Equinox
- 2010 Equinox
- 2009 Equinox
- 2008 Equinox
- 2007 Equinox
- 2006 Equinox
- 2005 Equinox
What to look for when buying a used equinox?
A used car can be a bargain if in good condition and not in need of a lot of repair work. So in this section what to look for when buying a used equinox will be discussed. To begin, you should refrain from purchasing a used Chevrolet Equinox from model years 2006, 2010, 2011, or 2013.
All three of the previous Equinox models have been plagued by problems with the heater, engine, and gearbox, and the 2013 model had various difficulties with the inside accessories. The third-generation Equinox, which went on sale for the 2018 model year and is still being manufactured, is the best-used alternative.
In terms of size and weight, the 2018 and later versions are somewhat smaller and lighter than the previous design, but the inside space remains the same. The result is a more agile and economical car that yet has room for all of your family and friends to travel in. In reality, the third-generation Chevy Equinox was designed with efficiency in mind, making this version of the car far more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Take the vehicle to a reputable technician before finishing your purchase to check that all of the important components have been handled carefully. If the engine, gearbox, or the back and front axles have any problems, you should go elsewhere.
What are some common chevy equinox problems?
The smell of gasoline and smoke, failure of the fuel pump, and excessive oil consumption are typical issues that customers have about the engine of the Chevy Equinox. In addition, several Equinox owners have voiced their dissatisfaction that the outside lights on the vehicle are not sufficiently bright, that the ignition key is difficult to turn, and that the accelerator tends to get caught behind the floor mat.
Other frequent concerns include the ineffectiveness of the defrosting system and the intermittent operation of the windshield wipers.
What is the life expectancy of chevy equinox?
Even though Chevrolet does not have a reputation for dependability, the brand does produce several vehicles that are dependable, and one of those models is Equinox. Depending on several different circumstances, the life expectancy of a Chevy Equinox may be anywhere from 100,000 to 200,000 miles.
This can be anticipated from the vehicle. According to Consumer Reports, the typical lifespan of a vehicle is 200,000 miles, which indicates that the Equinox is just as dependable as any other model now available. Because the Equinox is already a dependable vehicle, all that is required to get 200,000 miles or more out of it is proper upkeep and maintenance.
Regular maintenance on your Chevrolet Equinox, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and other similar tasks, is required if you want to extend the vehicle’s lifetime beyond 200,000 miles. A Chevrolet Equinox has a lifespan of ten to thirteen years, assuming it is driven an average of fifteen thousand miles a year, which is the national average.
Top 5 Problems: Chevy Equinox SUV Second Generation 2010-17
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