Which Years Of Used Chevy Equinoxes Cars Are Most Reliable?
We've rounded up the most reliable years for the Chevy Equinox. See which ones (and which Equinox years to avoid) so you can make a smart preowned car shopping decision.
Being one of the most competitive vehicle segments, buyers are not short on options when it comes to compact SUVs. You practically have to choose from some of the most popular models in the market, including the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, etc. With that said, if you prefer a less popular, more affordable, and long-lasting compact SUV, the Chevrolet Equinox is worth looking into.
The Chevy Equinox is an easy-to-drive SUV with good handling and a smooth ride. Furthermore, this SUV frequently has reasonable prices in the used car market.
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?
For today’s post, we’ll look at all the Chevy Equinox generations and pick out the most reliable model years and the years every buyer should avoid.
2005-2009 Chevrolet Equinox
When the Equinox SUV debuted, it enjoyed great popularity from buyers. Unfortunately, its first generation left a lot to be desired in terms of reliability.
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Avoid: 2005 Chevrolet Equinox
While the debut Equinox model received a decent amount of fanfare, it had severe reliability woes. According to CarComplaints.com, the 2005 Equinox received over 1,000 complaints from frustrated owners, and it mainly had to do with the head gasket failure. This was a common issue with Equinoxes powered by the 3.4L V6 engine, which caused problems like blown head gaskets and gasket leaks.
Avoid: 2006 Chevy Equinox
Chevy should have improved the following model year in reliability. CarComplaints says that the 2006 Chevrolet Equinox had over 1,000 complaints, most of which were about engine and heating issues. Chevy owners complained that their heating system only blows cold air, which was traced to a problem with the air temperature blend door. In addition, the 2006 Equinox received a number of complaints ranging from engine shutdowns and failing speed sensors.
Buy: 2009 Chevy Equinox
If you’re looking for the most reliable year for Chevy Equinox in its first generation, the 2009 model year is your best bet. CarComplaints logged only 170+ complaints, and zero recalls for this Equinox year, which is impressive considering it’s a first-gen model. There were a few written complaints regarding issues about the timing chain and loss of power, but they’re far from widespread. Expect to pay around $5,125 - $6,050 for a used 2009 Equinox, but remember that it lacks many modern safety features.
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 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 Chevrolet Equinox model years to avoid?
2010-2017 Chevrolet Equinox
The second generation Equinox was lightyears better than the first, complete with various improvements to the interior and a redesign to a more car-like profile. Unfortunately, the reliability of this lineup wasn’t simply there.
Avoid: 2010-2013 Chevy Equinox
The first few models in the second-gen lineup of Equinox struggled with various reliability issues. For example, the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox had more than 300+ complaints regarding engine issues. In total, the 2010 Equinox racked up over 1,000 complaints and three recalls. The most reported issue was excessive oil consumption and how owners had to book oil changes sooner than expected.
The 2011 Chevrolet Equinox also received more than 1,000 complaints, most of which were about its problematic engine and excessive oil consumption. In order to fix the excessive oil consumption issue, owners had to replace the piston rings or the entire engine altogether. Many people also complained about clattering noises while starting the SUV.
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Meanwhile, the 2013 Chevrolet Equinox was considered the worst model year by CarComplaints.com, no thanks to its 1,000+ complaints and two recalls. This year, like the previous models, also struggled with engine issues and excessive oil consumption. On the other hand, Consumer Reports gave the 2013 Equinox a low reliability score of 2.0 out of 5.0.
Overall, the excessive oil consumption was widely attributed to Equinox’s 2.4L I4 engine, so it’s worth avoiding models with that particular engine.
Buy: 2017 Chevy Equinox
The 2017 Chevy Equinox is the saving grace of the second-gen Equinoxes. It received some high oil consumption complaints, but it’s nowhere near the previous models. According to Consumer Reports, the 2017 Equinox has a perfect reliability verdict of 5.0 out of 5.0. Similarly, J.D. Power also gave the 2017 Equinox a near-perfect score for predicted reliability. This is the most reliable year for Chevy Equinox and is a good option if you’re looking for a more recent model.
2018-Present Chevrolet Equinox
The current generation of Equinox received better predicted reliability ratings, so it’s an excellent place to shop for a newer used SUV.
Buy: 2019 Chevy Equinox
The 2019 Chevy Equinox is one of the more attractive options in the compact SUV segment, thanks to its roomy, comfortable cabin, best-in-class fuel economy, and excellent predicted reliability ratings. Consumer Reports says the 2019 Equinox has a reliability verdict score of 4.0 out of 5.0. It’s not without issues, but many of its problems were with its electrical systems and interior accessories.
Overall, the 2019 Equinox is an excellent used SUV that offers tons of practicality, a spacious row of seats, and excellent fuel economy ratings (27 mpg). Since it’s a more recent model, you’ll also benefit from modern tech and safety features. Its price ranges from $17,525 - $24,600, so it’s a good option if you’re on a tight budget.
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Buy: 2022 Chevy Equinox
Although the 2022 Equinox looks like a good SUV on paper, its poor predicted reliability ratings and nearly-new pricing are deal breakers for used car buyers. For instance, CR rated the 2022 Equinox with a dismal reliability score of 1.0 out of 5.0 and a low customer satisfaction score of 2.0 out of 5.0. It doesn’t have too many severe trouble spots, but the rear occupant protection is lacking based on CR’s evaluation. Overall, it’s a decent new SUV, but it’s certainly not the best choice considering the competition.
What Reddit Says About the Best Year of the Chevy Equinox:
Chevrolet’s Equinox competes in the crowded compact SUV segment with its spacious interior and fuel efficiency. But how does it fare in the reliability department? We’ve browsed Reddit for genuine experiences from Equinox owners. Let’s find out if this popular crossover can go the distance without major issues.
A good experience with the Equinox:
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byu/PointInternational34 from discussion
inwhatcarshouldIbuy
A concern that doesn’t bode well for the Equinox’s reliability:
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byu/syncopation_fracture from discussion
inwhatcarshouldIbuy
On how newer Equinoxes might be more reliable:
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byu/immilkandcookies from discussion
inwhatcarshouldIbuy
On the pros and cons of owning an Equinox:
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byu/PointInternational34 from discussion
inwhatcarshouldIbuy
Ultimately, experiences with Chevy Equinox ownerships tend to vary between solid reliability and “avoid at all cost” problems.
FAQs: Most Reliable Chevy Equinox Years
Q: What are the most reliable Chevy Equinox years to consider?
A: The 2009 and 2017 models are particularly reliable for those considering a used Chevy Equinox. The 2009 model is noted for having significantly fewer complaints than its predecessors, while the 2017 model has received high marks for reliability from various automotive review sources.
Q: Which Chevy Equinox years should be avoided?
A: Potential buyers should be wary of the 2005, 2006, 2010-2013, and 2016 Chevy Equinox models. These years have been flagged for various issues, including engine problems, heating system malfunctions, and excessive oil consumption.
Q: Is the 2017 Chevy Equinox a good buy in the used market?
A: Yes, the 2017 Chevy Equinox is considered a good buy due to its improved reliability ratings. It experienced fewer issues related to oil consumption and engine performance, making it a more dependable choice than earlier models.
Q: What about the newer Chevy Equinox models?
A: The 2019 Chevy Equinox is recommended for its comfortable cabin, fuel efficiency, and better reliability ratings. While it’s a more recent model with modern features, checking for any potential issues specific to the vehicle you’re considering is still crucial.
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