The first-generation Chevy Equinox may not be the best from general motors, but the latest redesigns are much better. Now on the third generation, manufacturers of the Chevy Equinox have not stopped making improvements to the car model since 2005 for their users’ convenience.
The Chevy Equinox is a great option for anyone looking to get a roomy and compact SUV at an inexpensive price. The designs are famous for their spacious interior, portability, safety features, and ride quality.
Having given the latest model a 7.8 score out of 10 by U.S news, you may be wondering if you would be making a mistake by purchasing one of the Chevy Equinox SUVs. This article will show you whether the Chevy Equinoxes are worth buying or not.
Are Chevy Equinoxes good cars?
In short, although the Chevy Equinox does not stand out expressly if all features are judged separately, it is worth every penny spent on it. The third-generation models are the most reliable with their improved engine performance, quality interior, lightness, safety technology, and spaciousness.
To answer the question as to whether the Chevy Equinox series are good cars, it would depend on what you want. If what you want is a compact SUV with a spacious interior and a reduced price, the Chevy Equinox is one of the good options to consider. The Chevy Equinox series pricing generally is fair enough for what they are offering their users.
Chevrolet Equinox brief history
Since 2005, General motors have developed three generations of the Chevy Equinox. The first generation, second, and third-generation runs from 2005-2009, 2010-2017, and 2018-22 respectively.
The first design of the Chevy Equinox series was introduced in 2005. The 2005 model is not as compact as the latest ones as it was considered the largest in its class. Other notable features it has are FWD or AWD, passenger and cargo area versatility, and five-speed automatic.
The next model that had visible upgrades is the 2007 model. The 2007 Chevy Equinox showed up with an improved interior and new standard safety feature.
The preceding 2008 Chevy Equinox is a sports model with a V6 engine. It has a reduced height compared to the previous model. Fast-forward to the 2010 Chevy Equinox model which opened the floor for the second generation redesigns.
Powered by a four-cylinder engine, the SUV had a six-speed transmission. You also have the option of using a V6 engine with the 2010 Equinox model. There are also added tech features like the power liftgate and touchscreen navigator.
2012 saw added safety features, like front collision and lane departure warning in the year’s Equinox design. Come 2016, there was an improvement in the front styling and other upgrades like the standardized touch screen radio and backup camera. By 2018, the third generation of the Chevy Equinox arrived with a bang.
The 2018 Equinox is a redesign that is lighter and smaller than the previous generations. In general, the third generation designs have a turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine as one of their options and still have front or all-wheel drive. The 2022 Chevy Equinox which is the latest design has shown a lot of improvement in the SUV model.
The notable features of the 2022 model include;
- Front or all-wheel drive
- Portable and accommodates 5 seaters
- Automatic emergency braking feature
- Tech features like Android Auto and wireless Apple car play
- Revised frontend
Is the Chevy Equinox a Reliable Car?
Check out the reliability score of the Chevy Equinox from year to year by the J.D power;
| Chevrolet model year | Predicted Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2005 | 5/5 | Among the best |
| 2006 | 78/100 | Average |
| 2007 | 2.5/5 | Not that Great |
| 2008 | 2/5 | Not that Great |
| 2009 | 5/5 | Among the best |
| 2010 | 2/5 | Not that Great |
| 2011 | 2/5 | Not that Great |
| 2012 | 3/5 | About average |
| 2013 | 4/5 | Better than most |
| 2014 | 5/5 | Among the best |
| 2015 | 5/5 | Among the best |
| 2016 | 5/5 | Among the best |
| 2017 | 4.5 | Better than Most |
| 2018 | 3.5/5 | Average |
| 2019 | 5/5 | Among the best |
| 2020 | 76/100 | Average |
| 2021 | 87/100 | Great |
| 2022 | 85/100 | Great |
From the table above, you can tell the predicted reliability score of each Chevy Equinox model. Some have the perfect score, while others are just above average or rated below average. Overall, most Chevy Equinox SUVs are reliable.
Does the Chevy Equinox last long?
On average, the newer versions of the Chevy Equinox should last 10 to 20 years. That translates to about 200,000 miles provided you take proper care of the SUV. That is not to say the older version will not last at all, they can also last for 7 to 10 years when cared for properly.
The Chevy Equinoxes can even go beyond the predicted 200,000 miles when maintained well. You need to carry out necessary servicing like changing the transmission oil and replacing the filters. Also, avoid rough driving and overloading your Chevy Equinoxes. Those can cut short the lifespan of the SUV.
What problems does the Chevy Equinox have?
Over the years, the Chevy Equinox has been reported to have certain problems. Although, that is expected when you purchase a second-hand car that has been used for years already. Some of those common problems are;
- Smell of gasoline
- Excessive oil consumption
- Fuel pump failure
- Windshield wipers stopped working
- Exterior light not bright enough
Note that not all Chevy Equinoxes are affected by the above problems. They are usually a result of getting a used car without proper inspection. When your vehicle starts to age, the functions will reduce unlike the time it was new. If you don’t take proper care of your Chevy Equinox, you may experience any of the problems listed too.
How to make a Chevy Equinox last long?
If you want your Chevy Equinox to last long, care for the transmission system and the engine. That is not to say you should leave out everything else. You just have to pay special attention to the parts that keep the SUV moving. Use the following tips to help your Chevy Equinox last longer;
- Avoid rough driving
- Use the prescribed transmission fluid
- Warm up the engine every day for at least 20 minutes even if you are not going out
- Don’t rest your hand on the gear shift. It will affect your transmission system in the long run.
- Ensure your tire is pumped adequately to reduce the toll on the SUV.
- Monitor all the oils in your SUV and top up if needed.
Bottom line
The Chevy Equinox is generally a great choice for any who fancies compact SUVs. It can accommodate a small family and has convenient features for a better user experience. To top it all, the pricing of Chevy Equinox models is affordable compared to others in their category. With the guide above, you already know which models to avoid and the really good ones. Have a smooth drive!
Tomas is a retired Chevy Auto Technician that brings decades of hands-on experience and expertise to the table. He’s also a father to two incredible daughters. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help you solve and find reliable information on Chevrolet vehicles. Whether it’s troubleshooting engine problems or providing tips for maintenance, Thomas is committed to helping Chevy owners keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.
