If you’re searching for a reliable SUV that won’t give you headaches down the road, the Chevy Equinox has been a popular choice for years, offering a comfortable ride, decent fuel efficiency, and modern features.
Despite these positive reviews, not every Equinox model is a winner. Some have been plagued with engine problems, excessive oil consumption, transmission failures, and clattering noises that can spoil your driving experience.
Whether you’re looking to buy a Chevy Equinox or just curious about potential red flags, you’re on the right page. I’ve done the complete research and came up with the Chevy Equinox years you need to avoid.
Chevy Equinox Red Flags: The Worst Years You Should Avoid
Year 2025
- Weak Engine
- Bad Fuel Economy
- Outdated Infotainment System
Year 2020
- Underpowered Engine
- Transmission Issues
- Cheap Interior
Years 2010-2017
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Safety Problems
- Slow Acceleration
Year 2024
- Malfunctioning of the Turbocharger
- Noisy Engine
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Overheating While Braking
Year 2019
- Exhaust Camshaft Reluctor Ring Failure
- Oil and Coolant Contamination
- Poor Build Quality
Years 2005-2007
- Failed the IIHS Crash Test
- Interior Heater Failure
- Faulty Passenger Airbag Sensors
2025 Chevy Equinox: Underpowered, Inefficient, and Outdated
The new Equinox 2025 might seem like a reasonable pick at first, but there are several key issues with the vehicle that will make it something you need to reconsider or even avoid.
1. Weak Engine
The Equinox 2025 has a weaker engine, which might make this model a weaker option compared to other similar SUVs on the market. Equinox is equipped with a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower.
It results in slower acceleration, only managing to reach 60 mph in 8.6 seconds, making it the slowest vehicle out of all its 2025 competitors, like the Toyota RAV4. If you’re one of those drivers who values a bit of snappiness, you must avoid this car.
2. Bad Fuel Economy
Most people expect vehicles that are more sluggish in acceleration to be more fuel efficient, but the Chevy Equinox 2025 model doesn’t fall into this category. It offers only average fuel mileage of 26 mpg in the cities and 28 mpg on the highways, which I feel is shockingly low.
3. Outdated Infotainment System
All Equinox models come with two large digital displays on the dashboard that’ll give you a technological integration that some other SUVs lack. The model features an impressive 11.3-inch infotainment display at the center of the dashboard that angles slightly toward the driver, featuring access to navigation via Google Maps and a reasonable Wifi hotspot. You’ll also get an 11-inch digital cluster of gauges that offer configuration and customization options that you can modify based on your preferences.
The Equinox 2025 model does have a better infotainment system than its competitors. But unfortunately, this benefit is also its downside for several reasons, such as optional screen upgrades or no infotainment system upgrades.
It means the infotainment system will remain the same.
2025 Model Specifications
| Engine Type | 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder |
| Base Engine Type | Gas |
| Valves | 16 |
| Horsepower | 175 hp at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft at 2,000 rpm |
| Transmission | Continuous variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain Options | Front wheel drive |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.8 gal |
| Mileage | 28–33 miles per gallon |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Cargo Capacity | 29.8 cubic feet |
| Front Legroom | 40.9 inches |
| Rear Legroom | 39.9 inches |
| Safety Features |
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| Infotainment & Connectivity |
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2024 Chevy Equinox: Costly Mistakes Waiting to Happen
The 2024 Chevy Equinox offers good value for money, but there is a saying, “buy cheap, buy twice.” Why is it like that? Below are some reasons why you should avoid this model;
1. Malfunctioning of the Turbocharger
Same as the 2025 model, the Euinox 2024 also comes with a feeble 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that fails to excite and often struggles under heavy loads. This model is not just lacking in power, it also suffers from malfunctioning of the turbocharger.
What actually happens is that the car enters limp mode, leading to a major reduction in power. In limp mode, the car won’t cover more than 15 miles per hour. And I personally don’t want this to happen while I’m on the highway.
It could be dangerous. This problem is caused by to turbo wastegate, which is a valve positioned on the exhaust manifold, just before the turbine housing inlet. For most owners, replacing the part could solve the problem.
Sometimes the problem is with the complete turbo system. During cold weather, the turbocharger doesn’t get proper oiling.
2. Noisy Engine
Many owners also complained about a loud noise coming from the engine, caused by the turbo unit hitting the radiator. When the owners took the vehicle to dealers, they tried to solve this problem by adding some tape between the turbo and the radiator.
But it is not the real solution.
3. Excessive Oil Consumption
The Equinox 2024 model also has a major problem of excessive oil consumption, which could also lead to the engine failing completely.
4. Overheating While Braking
The Equinox 2024 model is not just underpowered, it is also plagued with major braking issues. It triggers overheating or shaking while braking at low speeds. Sometimes the brake vacuum pump fails, causing the brakes to malfunction completely.
Many owners also complained about brakes becoming suddenly stiff due to premature pad and rotor wear.
5. Fuel Leakage
There have also been reports of the fuel system malfunctioning. The gas tank lacked proper protective shielding, that punctured by a small road debris, causing dangerous fuel leakage.
The most alarming issue with the fuel system is the erratic behavior of the gas pedal. Depressing the pedal would cause the vehicle to accelerate dramatically instead of slowing down. That’s scary when you’re on the highway.
2024 Model Specifications
| Engine Type | 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder |
| Base Engine Type | Gas |
| Valves | 16 |
| Horsepower | 175 hp at 5,800 rpm |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft at 2,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain Options | Front wheel drive |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.9 gal |
| Mileage | 26-31 miles per gallon |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Cargo Capacity | 29.9 cubic feet |
| Front Legroom | 40.9 inches |
| Rear Legroom | 39.9 inches |
| Safety Features |
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| Infotainment & Connectivity |
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2020 Chevy Equinox Might Not Be the Smooth Ride You’re Expecting
The 2020 Chevy Equinox has some drawbacks that might make you think twice before buying it.
1. Underpowered Engine
The Chevy Equinox 2020 model is equipped with a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, which is quite underpowered for an SUV of this size. It will make you struggle with the acceleration. Additionally, many owners also complained about excessive oil consumption, which can lead to costly repairs.
2. Transmission Issues
It is obvious that a 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission in the 1.5-liter engine will only cause problems, including harsh shifting, and even transmission failure at relatively low mileage.
3. Cheap Interior
Compared to other SUVs in the market, the Equinox is equipped with a cheap interior with hard plastics and a lack of premium materials. Many owners reported glitches and connectivity problems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2020 Model Specifications
| Engine Type | 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder |
| Base Engine Type | Gas |
| Valves | 16 |
| Horsepower | 170 hp at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft at 2,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain Options | Front wheel drive |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.9 gal |
| Mileage | 26-31 miles per gallon |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Cargo Capacity | 29.9 cubic feet |
| Front Legroom | 40.9 inches |
| Rear Legroom | 39.9 inches |
| Safety Features |
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| Infotainment & Connectivity |
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Beware of the Trouble Lurking Beneath the Hood of the 2019 Chevy Equinox
Now, let’s talk about the 2019 Chevy Equinox year you need to avoid.
1. Exhaust Camshaft Reluctor Ring Failure
One of the most significant issues most owners faced in the 2019 Equinox model is the failure of the reluctor ring on the exhaust camshaft. The reluctor ring is crucial for providing accurate timing to the engine’s ECU.
A broken lug inside the vacuum pump jams into the reluctor ring and alters its position, which leads to the engine no longer running properly.
2. Oil and Coolant Contamination
Many owners also complained about the presence of emulsified coolant-oil mixtures in the turbo system. They reported clear signs of contamination in the intake and charge pipes, which often lead to severe engine damage and significantly reduce the lifespan of the vehicle.
4. Poor Build Quality
Some owners start observing staining and coking inside the valve cover after driving the vehicle for only 60,000 miles. It is a clear indication of poor build quality and long-term reliability problems.
2019 Model Specifications
| Engine Type | 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder |
| Base Engine Type | Gas |
| Valves | 16 |
| Horsepower | 170 hp at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft at 2,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain Options | Front wheel drive |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.9 gal |
| Mileage | 26-32 miles per gallon |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Cargo Capacity | 29.9 cubic feet |
| Front Legroom | 40.9 inches |
| Rear Legroom | 39.7 inches |
| Safety Features |
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| Infotainment & Connectivity |
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The Hidden Issues Haunting Second-Generation Chevy Equinox (2010-2017) Owners
1. Excessive Oil Consumption
The second-generation of the Chevy Equinox burns a lot of oil. It is not a good indication if you see a lot of oil coming through the PCV system. You need a new valve cover to keep the PCV system working correctly.
Additionally, many owners also complained about oil leaks near the back of the oil pan where it meets the transmission. In this case, the rings on the piston need to be replaced. What happens is that the rings get stuck or do not seal correctly.
Fixing it is a huge and costly job as the engine head has to come off and the piston need to pulled off and replaced.
2. Safety Problems
The 2017 Chevy Equinox received poor reviews for its LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) design. In their recent models, they have improved this design and made it more friendly.
3. Slow Acceleration
P2135/P2138 are the acceleration pedal positions. Both of these codes are very similar. Two sensors in the throttle body tell the computer where the throttle blade is. On the other hand, two sensors in the gas pedal tell the computer where the gas pedal is.
The reason there are two sensors is that if one starts cutting out, the throttle doesn’t open wide enough, and you don’t end up having an accident. But you could end up with reduced power and slow acceleration.
2010-2017 Model Specifications
| Engine Type | 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder |
| Base Engine Type | Gas |
| Valves | 16 |
| Horsepower | 182 hp at 6,700 rpm |
| Torque | 172 lb-ft at 4,900 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain Options | Front wheel drive |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 18.8 gal |
| Mileage | 22-32 miles per gallon |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Cargo Capacity | 31.5 cubic feet |
| Front Legroom | 41.2 inches |
| Rear Legroom | 39.9 inches |
| Safety Features |
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| Infotainment & Connectivity |
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Why the 2005-2007 Chevy Equinox Falls Short on Safety
1. Failed the IIHS Crash Test
The first-generation Chevy Equinox cars performed poorly in the IIHS crash test. They have received a mediocre to below-average rating in both the side and head restraints and seat categories.
However, the passenger seats performed well in the test, but the front passenger seats did not. If safety is the most significant factor when you’re searching for a family car, you must avoid 2005-2007 Equinox models.
2. Interior Heater Failure
Many owners also complained about the malfunctioning heater. They experienced not only getting chilled after turning on the heater, but also the windshield was frozen, posing a safety risk, especially on the highway.
3. Faulty Passenger Airbag Sensors
The 2007 Equinox had several complaints regarding faulty passenger airbag sensors. This issue only appeared in the 2007 model. Later, the company fixed the problem in its latest models.
2005-2007 Model Specifications
| Engine Type | 3.4-liter V6 |
| Base Engine Type | Gas |
| Valves | 12 |
| Horsepower | 185 hp at 5,200 rpm |
| Torque | 210 lb-ft at 3,800 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain Options | All wheel drive |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 17 gal |
| Mileage | 17-23 miles per gallon |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Cargo Capacity | 35.2 cubic feet |
| Front Legroom | 41.2 inches |
| Rear Legroom | 40.2 inches |
| Safety Features |
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| Infotainment & Connectivity |
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From 2005 to 2025: Chevy Equinox Generations Compared
| Specifications | 2005-2007 | 2010-2017 | 2019 | 2020 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 3.4-liter V6 | 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder | 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder | 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder | 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder | 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder |
| Base Engine Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| Valves | 12 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 |
| Horsepower | 185 hp at 5,200 rpm | 182 hp at 6,700 rpm | 170 hp at 5,600 rpm | 170 hp at 5,600 rpm | 175 hp at 5,800 rpm | 175 hp at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 210 lb-ft at 3,800 rpm | 172 lb-ft at 4,900 rpm | 203 lb-ft at 2,000 rpm | 203 lb-ft at 2,000 rpm | 203 lb-ft at 2,000 rpm | 184 lb-ft at 2,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic | 6-speed automatic | 6-speed automatic | 6-speed automatic | 6-speed automatic | Continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain Options | All-Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 17 gallons | 18.8 gallons | 14.9 gallons | 14.9 gallons | 14.9 gallons | 14.8 gallons |
| Mileage (MPG) | 17 city / 23 highway | 22 city / 32 highway | 26 city / 32 highway | 26 city / 31 highway | 26 city / 31 highway | 28 city / 33 highway |
Will the Upcoming Chevy Equinox 2026 be Worth Purchasing?
The upcoming 2026 Chevy Equinox has undergone some minor updates. Stepping inside the car, Chevrolet has focused on creating a more comfortable and premium feel. The company has upgraded the cabin with high-quality materials, including soft-touch plastics and leather upholstery.
The dashboard is also sleek and minimalist in design, with a floating touchscreen at the center. The infotainment system is going to be one of the standout features of the 2026 Chevy Equinox.
It comes with a crisp and responsive interface that’s compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Chevy Equinox has also improved in performance-wise by offering a choice of engines that suit a variety of driving preferences.
There is a standard 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that delivers around 170 horsepower. This engine creates a balance between efficiency and power, making it ideal for everyday driving.
On the other hand, the car is also equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivering 250 horsepower. This engine offers more power, brisk acceleration, and a more dynamic driving experience.
Whether you’re tackling city streets or heading out on a weekend adventure, the new Equinox’s performance will be reliable and responsive. If we talk about handling, the 2026 model comes with smooth steering and a suspension setup that can absorb bumps and rough roads with ease.
Its fuel economy will also be competitive with a base engine offering an estimated 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. If you’re looking for a well-rounded, reliable, and affordable compact SUV, the 2026 Chevy Equinox will be an excellent choice.
With a spacious interior, solid performance, and a long list of safety features, it will be a great choice for families.
Wrapping Up
Although the Chevy Equinox has been a popular choice among SUV buyers, there have been some model years that have been more troublesome than others. You need to avoid the trouble years, such as those that have been known to be prone to engine failure, excessive oil consumption, and transmission issues, to spare yourself time, money, and headache in the long run.
Before purchasing an Equinox, always check vehicle history reports, and have a trusted mechanic check. Choosing a healthy and highly-rated model year will give you the best performance, longevity, and overall value for your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the Worst Years for the Chevy Equinox?
The worst model years of the Chevy Equinox are 2005-2007, 2010-2017, 2019, 2020, 2024, and 2025.
2. What are Some Common problems of These Equinox Models?
A few of the most common problems include;
- Excessive use of oil
- Engine failure
- Transmission problems
- Electrical issues
- Oil Leakage
3. Why is the 2010 Chevy Equinox Unreliable?
This year is unreliable due to excessive oil consumption issues, typically leading to engine failure or damage.
4. Are There any Reliable First-Generation Chevy Equinox Models?
The 2008 and 2009 are a bit better first-generation Chevy Equinox years.
5. How Can I Tell If a Used Equinox has Engine Problems?
Seek out the following signs;
- Irregular knocking or ticking noises
- Excessive exhaust smoke
- Oil leakage or lack of oil
- Check engine light signals
- Gradual speeding up or constant idling
6. Is It Worth Fixing a Damaged Equinox, or Should It be Replaced?
That will depend on the repair cost. If it requires extensive transmission or engine work, the repair cost may be more than its worth, and it is best to replace it.
