Chevrolet Equinox reliability: common problems by model year

Across 7 model years, the Chevrolet Equinox has 2,331 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 11 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and electrical system. 2012 drew the most complaints (682), 2021 the fewest (86).

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Chevrolet Equinox vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $13,995–$27,354.

Which Equinox years have the most problems?

Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.

Highest: 2012 (682 complaints). Lowest: 2021 (86).

Where owners report problems

What owners say

Sentiment is sharply divided by powertrain and generation. For the internal combustion engine (ICE) models, particularly from the 2010s (e.g., 2011-2019), sentiment is overwhelmingly negative, dominated by reports of severe and recurrent mechanical failures le

• Internal Combustion Engine Models (2010s, e.g., 2011-2019):
• Severe engine problems (oil consumption, timing chain issues, PCV valve failures leading to blown seals, complete engine failure) – very frequent.
• Unresolved drivability issues (rough idle, stalling, shaking, reduced power warnings) – very frequent.
• Premature front suspension failure – recurrent.
• Excessive body rust – isolated.

Owner insights cover all generations of the Equinox. Individual model years are broken down above.