The Chevrolet Equinox initially entered the market in 2005 as a midsize SUV, but later on, it shrunk down to a compact crossover. Ever since its debut, the Equinox has faced many issues and failed to gain impressive reliability ratings from the owners. Because of this, models on the used market are priced significantly below the competition.
On the bright side, not all Equinox models are problematic. If you’re looking for a decent family and grocery hauler, a good model year of the Equinox can provide excellent value for the money. Without further ado, let’s take a look at everything the SUV’s worst years, its reliability and longevity, and everything else you need to know before purchasing one.
Why The 2006, 2010, 2011, and 2013 Are Among Chevy Equinox’s Most Problematic Years
According to the data collected by the Car Complaints website, the 2006 Chevrolet Equinox has the most overall owner complaints. Most of these reports pertain to the AC/heater not working correctly. “I live in Ohio, and I need heat. You shouldn't have to pay someone $1,000 to fix this little plastic piece. Sometimes I am forced to drive and can barely see out of my windshield,” quoted one owner, indicating that their heater blows cold air.
Another common problem with the 2006 model is engine failure due to a blown head gasket. Although this was a widespread issue with General Motors’ engines of that era, the company refused to shoulder the responsibility and recall faulty models. Owners have had to spend $1,740 on average to fix the issue.
Both 2010 and 2011 models are plagued with severe engine and transmission problems. More than 150 owners have complained about excessive oil consumption in these models. By the time owners noticed the symptoms of high oil consumption, it was already too late, and they had to swap the engine with a new one. On average, owners have spent $3,370 because of this issue.
Transmission failure is another expensive overhaul when it comes to 2010 and 2011 Chevrolet Equinox models. One owner said, “I was on my way home an hour and a half away, and all of a sudden no power, the engine was running, press the gas, but would not go. Had it towed home for $195.00. Dealer said it needed a new transmission.” On average, these transmissions failed after about 73,000 miles.
Several 2013 Equinox owners had to replace their engines because of excessive oil consumption, faulty PCV valves, and broken timing chains. Again, the problems occurred well below the 100,000-mile mark.
Last but not least, owners have complained about malfunctioning interior accessories in their 2013 Chevrolet Equinox models. Problems range from the infotainment system not working to the interior lights going out intermittently. “The infotainment system stopped working about a year ago. No radio. No Bluetooth. No navigation. No clock. No back up camera. The screen is black and has not worked at all since it first went out,” said one owner, expressing their dissatisfaction with their 2013 Equinox.
With Proper Maintenance, A Chevrolet Equinox Can Last 150,000 To 200,000 Miles
According to various reliable auto sources, like the Vehicle History website, a Chevrolet Equinox can put out 150,000 to 200,000 miles on the odometer. That equates to 13 to 17 years of service driving 12,000 miles in a year.
A critical point in reaching higher mileages is following the manufacturer’s suggested maintenance routine. Some essential services include:
- At 7,500 miles: change the oil and the oil filter, rotate the tires, and inspect the brake pads.
- At 22,500 miles: change the cabin air filters.
- At 45,000 miles: change the engine air filter, the transmission fluid, and the transfer case fluid on AWD models.
- At 97,500 miles: change the spark plugs.
- At 150,000 miles: inspect the drive belts and flush and refill the coolant.
According to the RepairPal website, maintaining a Chevy Equinox costs $537 annually. That is slightly more than an average of $521 for all compact SUVs.
Avoid Buying Used 2006, 2010, 2011, and 2013 Chevrolet Equinox Models
If you’re in the market for a used daily driver, the Chevrolet Equinox can be a bargain for a crossover SUV. However, if you go for the problematic models, you’re more likely to spend thousands of dollars on expensive overhauls.
The 2006 model had a widespread problem with the heater, the 2010 and 2011 Equinoxes are plagued with severe engine and transmission issues, and the 2013 model had numerous issues with the interior accessories.
Finally, before finalizing your purchase, take the vehicle to a trusted mechanic to ensure all the vital parts were treated with care. If the engine, the transmission, or the rear and front axles have any issues, you should skip that car for a safer option.