Chevy Equinox Years to Avoid | Must Know Before Buying

It’s wise to buy a used Chevy Equinox, but not all years provide the same quality. Some models have issues with their engines, while some have transmission problems. These faults can result in expensive repairs and ongoing maintenance problems.

So, let’s learn about what Chevy Equinox years to avoid before investing in this car.

Common Problems in Bad Equinox Models

Even though the Chevy Equinox is known to be very reliable, some model years face the following issues:

Engine Issues

Equinox models have engine problems, such as stalling and rough idling. These issues make cars unreliable and dangerous on the road. Some car owners have had to deal with expensive engine repairs or replacements.

Transmission Failure

Transmission issues can cause the vehicle to jerk or hesitate during shifting. This can affect driving performance and make it difficult to manage the car. In extreme situations, full transmission replacements are required, which are very expensive.

Excessive Oil Consumption

Some Equinox models consume too much oil between oil changes. This usually goes unnoticed until the engine is damaged due to low oil levels. The drivers need to monitor oil regularly and top it up more than usual, which is undesirable.

Electrical System Problems

Certain models have issues with defective wiring or sensors. These can cause dashboard lights to come on without apparent reason or important features to malfunction. Electrical fixes can be difficult to identify and involve replacing several components.

Air Conditioning and Heating Malfunctions

Owners have complained that the air conditioning stops cooling or the heater is broken in winter. This can make driving uncomfortable, particularly in extreme weather conditions. Repairing such systems means replacing compressors and other major parts.

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Chevy Equinox Years to Avoid

Here are the Chevy Equinox model years that customers should not buy. Each had serious problems that impacted performance, safety, and repair costs.

2005 Chevy Equinox

This initial-year model had extensive issues with the head gasket and cooling system. Early in the vehicle’s life, the engine was common to overheat or leak coolant, resulting in expensive engine repairs or complete replacements.

2006 Chevy Equinox

The 2006 model still experienced the same head gasket issues as the year before. Drivers also complained of electrical system issues, such as dashboard warning lights and sensor faults. Repairs were common and expensive for owners.

2007 Chevy Equinox

Engine overheating and inadequate HVAC performance were common in the 2007 model. The heater is used to blow cold air most of the time, particularly during cold weather. The issues made the vehicle uncomfortable and expensive to run.

2010 Chevy Equinox

This model year brought a new engine design that resulted in excessive oil consumption. Drivers would need to check and add oil more often to prevent the engine from being damaged. If not fixed early, the engine would fail.

2011 Chevy Equinox

The oil consumption issue continued in 2011, with new complaints about transmissions. Drivers experienced hard shifting and jerking when on the road, making the car feel unreliable.

2012 Chevy Equinox

The 2012 model also suffered from transmission and engine problems. The engine repeatedly produced loud sounds, poor acceleration performance, and power loss. Due to the high cost of fixing the problem, drivers didn’t always get the source of the problem fixed. 

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Trouble-Free Chevy Equinox Years

Here are the best Chevy Equinox years, which are known for improved reliability, a smoother ride, and fewer expensive repairs. 

2017 Chevy Equinox

The 2017 model is well-liked for its balanced ride, new safety features, and better reliability. It closed the second generation and addressed most of the problems experienced during previous years. Owners experience fewer engine and transmission issues than with previous models.

2018 Chevy Equinox

This year, the third generation was introduced with a new body and improved engines. It provided better fuel economy, modern tech features, and fewer issues with major systems. Reliability ratings were better, and most drivers found driving comfortable and smooth.

2019 Chevy Equinox

The 2019 model built upon the improvements made in 2018 and included more standard safety features. It did well in crash tests and had fewer mechanical issues reported. Overall, it’s considered a reliable option for those who desire reliability.

2020 Chevy Equinox

This year focused on fine-tuning previous enhancements and improving driver-assist technologies. Forward collision alert and lane-keeping assist were standard equipment. Fewer recalls and fewer severe complaints make it one of the most dependable Equinox years.

6 Tips for Buying a Used Chevy Equinox

If you are going to buy a used Chevy Equinox, here are some important tips to consider:

Check the Vehicle History Report

A vehicle history report allows you to see whether the car was in an accident or has had major repairs. It also informs you if the title is clean or branded as salvage. This report can prevent you from buying a car with underlying issues. 

Get a Professional Inspection

Even if the vehicle appears to be okay, a mechanic can find hidden engine or brake problems. Inspecting it beforehand can save you a lot of money in future repair costs and provide you with assurance before making a decision.

Steer Clear of Problem Years

Certain Equinox models have a reputation for engine issues, excessive oil consumption, or poor transmissions. Study and avoid these model years to lower your chances of costly issues. Selecting a more dependable model year keeps your money and time safe.

Test Drive the Vehicle

Driving the car yourself allows you to get a sense of how it feels and sounds. Look for shaking, unusual noises, or delayed gear shifts. A good test drive can bring up issues not mentioned in the ad.

Ask About Recalls and Repairs

Most cars have recalls, but not all are repaired. You can always ask the seller if the recall work was done. Always demand receipts for previous repairs. This means the car was properly maintained and not neglected.

Purchase from a Reliable Source

Certified dealerships appreciate and repair cars before resale. Buying from a known source reduces the chances of acquiring a car with underlying problems. You can also receive a limited warranty, which provides additional protection if something goes wrong.

Buy the Best Models of Chevy Equinox!

When buying a used Chevy Equinox, it is best to avoid the years with the most problems. Some models experienced engine or electrical issues that were expensive to repair. Learning which years to avoid can help you save money and minimize worry later. 

Always check the car’s history, have an examination, and select a reliable model year. This will allow you to drive your Equinox more smoothly and safely.

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