Here Are The Chevy Equinox Years To Avoid
The Equinox first debuted in showrooms back in 2005 and has seen pretty consistent success over the years as a popular crossover SUV. It was a first, as all Chevy SUVs models were designed with body-on-frame construction, and the Equinox was the first to have the body and the frame be built as two independent entities in body-on-frame construction. This means the structure and body were built as one. Does this new styling mean there are specific Equinox model years to avoid?
Before the Equinox’s inception, many other cars and SUVs used the unibody construction, but this was the first Chevy SUV to do so. It was developed to replace a few aging SUVs in the Chevy family and set itself apart from the Blazer by offering all-wheel drive instead of the Blazer’s rear-wheel drive.
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For the 2005 model year, the Chevy Equinox was introduced as a successor for the famous Blazer and Tracker SUVs. It was, however, entering one of the most competitive segments of the market, the crowded small crossover SUV segment. It should be noted that none of these should be considered terrible vehicles, as every make and model has its pros and cons.
Equinox Models to Avoid: First-Generation 2005-2007
Problems:
- Passenger airbag malfunction
- Poor safety ratings
- Interior heater failure
As a first-generation vehicle, the 2005-2007 models had their fair share of issues. Right from the jump, these model years performed poorly in the IIHS crash test in both the side and head restraints & seat categories, and they earned a mediocre to below-average rating. Although the back passenger seats performed well, the front passenger seats did not. With safety being one of the most significant factors in a new car purchase, the 2005-2007 Equinox model years are the ones to avoid if you’re searching for a family car.
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The 2005-2007 Equinox models had several complaints regarding a malfunctioning heater. Not only will the occupants be chilly, but the windshield could have issues defrosting, posing a safety risk. On top of the safety concerns, these also didn’t fare great for passenger friendliness.
Vehicles will naturally have some problems and recalls occasionally. The 2007 model had a brief recall for faulty passenger airbag sensors, one of the few models in its family history to have this problem. This appears to be a one-off issue, as it only impacted the 2007 model year. Still, as a whole, the first few years of the first generation should be avoided for safety and overall consumer satisfaction issues.
If you are set on going with the first generation to save money or just based on the model preference, you should focus on the 2008 and 2009 model years. These still had some issues but were more reliable on average than the previous three years of the first generation. The last two of the first generation’s most common problem was engine overheating, which cost consumers around $700 to fix.
The 2008 model was the first generation to receive several essential upgrades, making this a year to keep an eye on. Unless you’re prepared to put some serious work into your car or find one with low mileage, this is about as far back as you should go for a used Equinox.
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Equinox Model Years to Avoid: 2010-2017
Problems:
- Poor fuel efficiency
- Multiple safety recalls
- Poor LATCH review
High gas consumption, lack of modern features, and faulty safety features put models made from 2010-2017 at the top of the list for Equinox model years to avoid. Specifically, ones with a 2.4L engine have disappointing fuel efficiency compared to competitors and a high engine replacement cost. This was a pretty forgettable time for the Equinox, and models from the first two years of this stretch with a V6 are notorious for frequent trips to the repair shop with defective mechanical parts.
While not a significant safety concern for little ones in the back, the 2017 model received poor reviews for the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) design. More recent models improved the existing mechanism and made it more friendly.
An issue that vehicles from this generation faced was the overconsumption of multiple models. Both E85 and non-E85 engines were using too much oil, resulting in a shortage of lubrication. In particular, complaints about the 2.4L engine make this a period to avoid for the Equinox. The worst-case scenario is a blown engine which can be one of the most expensive repairs. While it may not be everyone’s first concern, the NHTSA did have an investigation for all model years from this period for wiper failure, so this is a good Equinox model to avoid.
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If you must get an Equinox from the 2010-17 generation, ensure it has a V6 engine to avoid this concern. There were reports of timing chains failing in the V6 engines from 2010-2012, but not for models made during 2013-2017.
The Chevy Equinox’s third generation began with 2017 vehicles, but critics and customers have been leaning toward the 2018 a bit more. For the most part, Equinox’s third generation (2018-present) has been nearly flawless regarding nagging maintenance issues. When hunting for used Chevy SUVs, keep an eye out for 2018 models if you want something newer. Keep in mind that these vehicles come in various trim levels, so keep that in mind as you consider your alternatives.
Like other American companies in recent years, Chevrolet switched to a more family-oriented lineup, and there’s a good possibility this re-structure was due to underperforming in the SUV space. From a consumer standpoint, Chevy got its growing pains with the Equinox out of the way early. Some disappointing years helped the company revisit the model and improve it for drivers. While there are certainly Equinox model years to avoid, you’ll be in pretty good shape if you go with 2018 or newer.
Common Chevrolet Equinox Problems Across All Models
The Chevy Equinox has above-average reliability ratings, and some models are more reliable than others. Here are some of the most common issues across all Equinox models:
- Excessive oil consumption: Equinox models from 2010 to 2013 have reportedly struggled from excessive oil consumption. According to reports, owners noticed that their vehicle consumes abnormal amounts of oil after seeing symptoms like illuminating check engine lights and violent shakes.
- Defective A/C compressor: Owners of the 2011 Equinox reported problems with their A/C system. Complaints about cold air not blowing and leaking freon are some of the most common symptoms. Apparently, the leading cause of these issues was the SUV’s faulty A/C compressor.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE CHEVY EQUINOX
However, not all Chevy Equinox model years are paragons of reliability, as some Equinoxes are more reliable than others. This is especially important if you’re buying a used model. So you’re likely asking, which is the most reliable year for Chevy Equinox?
- Battery issues: According to numerous Equinox owners, battery problems are prevalent in various models. Electrical issues like spotty Bluetooth audio, defective USB ports, and other electrical system failures. Expert mechanics have determined the source of these issues is the battery. Some people have to replace the battery, which can be costly.
- Rattling from the front lower control arm: Some models of the Equinox, especially the 2005 version, have rattling issues with the front lower control arm. The sound is especially pronounced when driving over bumps.
- Check engine light: Illuminating check engine light is an annoying issue that plagued many Equinox owners. Specifically, Equinox models with 6-speed transmission may develop an illuminating check engine light with various error codes (P0716, P0776, P0717, P0777, etc.) Experts have determined that it was due to a broken 35R clutch wave plate within the transmission system. Drivers have experienced symptoms like loss of reverse gear and slipping.
- Defective Takata airbags: The first and second generations of the Equinox were affected by the infamous Takata airbags – the largest automotive recall in the U.S. In case you don’t know, the inflator of the airbags may rupture or explode during deployment, and shoot metal fragments all over the cabin. There are 27 reported deaths associated with these faulty airbags.
- Delayed acceleration: Owners of first-gen Equinox have complained about delayed acceleration and unsafe throttle lag. According to the reports, there’s an electrical delay within the drive-by wire throttle system. In other words, when you step on the gas pedal, there’s a considerable second or two delay before the vehicle starts to move. This can be dangerous especially when you’re trying to clear a busy road traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions: Chevy Equinox Years to Avoid
Q: What are the main issues with the first-generation (2005-2007) Chevy Equinox?
A: The 2005-2007 Chevy Equinox models had several problems, including passenger airbag malfunctions, poor safety ratings in IIHS crash tests, and interior heater failures. These issues make the first-generation Equinox a less desirable choice for those seeking a family car.
Q: What are the main concerns with the 2010-2017 Chevy Equinox models?
A: Equinox models from 2010-2017 had several issues, including poor fuel efficiency (especially in models with a 2.4L engine), multiple safety recalls, and a poorly designed LATCH system for child safety seats in the 2017 model. Additionally, some engines from this generation suffered from excessive oil consumption, which could lead to costly repairs like engine replacement.
Q: Which Chevy Equinox models have the best reputation for reliability?
A: The third generation of the Chevy Equinox, which began with the 2018 model year, has been praised for its reliability and lack of significant maintenance issues. When searching for a used Chevy Equinox, models from 2018 and newer are generally considered the best options.
Q: Were any Chevy Equinox models affected by the Takata airbag recall?
A: Yes, the Takata airbag recall, the largest automotive recall in U.S. history, impacted the first and second generations of the Chevy Equinox.
Are Chevy Equinoxes typically reliable?
The Chevrolet Equinox can be very hit or miss in the reliability department. Some model years are dependable family haulers, while others will likely create headaches for their owners. Choosing the right Equinox is essential, especially if you’re buying used.
How much does a used Chevy Equinox typically cost?
An older Chevy Equinox, something from the 2010 or 2011 model year with about 150,000 miles, might run $4,000 to $5,000. But prices will increase considerably for something much newer. Data from CoPilot Price Pulse shows that a 2021 Chevrolet Equinox has a typical asking price of $24,851. This amount reflects a 26% increase over normal pricing because of the tight supply of used cars.
Is the Chevy Equinox a good car to purchase?
It depends. Used car shoppers need to be selective about which Chevy Equinox model year they’re buying. Some Equinox years are notorious for being unreliable and expensive to own. But thorough research can steer you in the right direction. Check out the most reliable years for a Chevy Equinox.
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