It began operations in 2005 and is now among Chevrolet’s most vital small SUVs. The Trax is Chevrolet’s top-selling model, replacing the S-10 and Tracker, which were the manufacturer’s best-selling small SUVs. It has already been demonstrated that the Equinox EV will be competitive in 2024 when compared to its competitors.
Compared to competing cars such as Tahoes and Suburbans, the Equinox emphasizes comfort and fuel economy. A truck’s chassis is larger, more efficient, and less durable than that of an SUV. The design makes shopping easier, but not everyone will appreciate it.
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Why we buy Chevy Equinox
Throughout two decades and four generations, Chevrolet has been proud to offer the Equinox. The Equinox models do differ, however. Certain years are notable for their reliability, while other years have had some issues. Since I was a young boy, I developed a passion for four-wheel drive off-road vehicles. Our goal is to provide clarity using customer feedback, recall data, and other information, such as NHTSA and IIHS statistics, to provide customers and consumers with clarity.
Future Equinoxes can be either great or terrible. Many used Equinox vehicles have histories of poor maintenance and accidents, which determines their quality. In order to better understand which years are a good idea to check out and which ones should be avoided, we analyze the best years and the worst years.
Also Read: Toyota RAV4 Years to Avoid
Best: 2009
Since it’s the oldest Equinox model, it has the highest used prices, making it the least expensive Equinox. Although it’s generally advised that you should avoid the first year or two of a new generation when buying a car, buying a new car during its last year is a good idea.
In the years following its debut, no recalls have been issued and the Equinox is widely considered reliable. In 2009, there will be four models of Equinox: LS, LT, LTZ, and Sport. Depending on the model, the power can go to either the front wheels or all four wheels. The transmissions on both vehicles are automatic. The trim packages include a variety of accessories that simplify and enhance everyday life.
A 3.4-liter V6 makes 185 horsepower in the other three models, while a 3.6-liter V6 makes 264 horsepower in Sport. KBB estimates that the 2009 model was available for between $4,800 and $6,000 despite being 15 years old.
Best: 2014-2015
A new engine and updated design launched the second-generation Equinox in 2010. As an alternative to the V6 engine, Chevrolet now offers a more fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine. During the 2012-2015 model year, the engines were 2.4-liter four-cylinders with 185 horsepower as well as 3.0-liter V6s with 268 horsepower. Chevrolet debuted its 30-6 horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine in 2013.
The Equinox’s first generation received several updates, including a new powertrain. This generation features a completely revamped Theta platform, as well as a brand new body style. The new Equinox was offered in two drivetrain options, front- and all-wheel drive. The cabin was finished in a binocular-style dashboard that added to the car’s modern look.
In recent years, engine reliability has increased as well, and this trend is likely to continue. A recent study found that Equinoxes had fewer problems for drivers, and the NHTSA praised them for their excellent safety ratings, which should reduce insurance rates (as well as ensuring personal safety in accidents).
Best: 2017
In addition to receiving a five-star rating from Consumer Reports, the 2017 Equinox is also known for its outstanding reliability. Additionally, these newer models come with features such as Bluetooth capability, lane assist, and a 7-inch touchscreen (though it is slow to respond to inputs).
It possesses the unique feature of being the first model to not be recalled in 2017. A renamed Premier has replaced LTZ, and Midnight has replaced LT. However, drivers will remain familiar with the drive train as it remains unchanged.
NHTSA rated the 2017 Equinox four stars overall for its safety. The rear seat is comfortable, and the interior is stylish. Despite the fact that Chevy offers a good offering, some problems such as oil burn at high mileage and a reduced interior space compared with comparably priced crossovers like the Mazda CX-50 take some of the shine off.
Best: 2021
It didn’t take long before the Equinox started to improve, with a few exceptions. Following the 2017 model year, the company hit a rough patch when it switched power plants, but it recovered by offering a great product in 2021.
The latest Equinox has also received some cosmetic updates, including LED lights and a chrome grille insert, as well as improved safety features. Using a surround-vision camera increases the driver’s awareness of their surroundings, enables rear collision alerts, and allows adaptive cruise control.
Equinox engines are now standardized at 1.5 liters and can produce 170 horsepower. Transmission: Hydra-Matic six-speed. During the NHTSA’s crash testing of the 2021 model, it also received a five-star rating. Due to their popularity, crossovers can be a hard choice to make when buying a used SUV.
It was recalled for four reasons, including concerns with the seat belts and child seat mounts, and problems with the fuel system. Buyers who check Equinox VIN numbers against government databases can make sure it has been recalled if necessary.
Avoid: 2007
In the early stages of a vehicle’s lifecycle, problems are common but take time to resolve. The Equinox debuted in 2005 and was still undergoing improvements by 2007. Potential buyers should be worried about first-generation Equinoxes, since they have a multitude of irritations and probably the most wear and tear after so many years.
Firstly, there were several complaints about interior noise with the 2007 Equinox. The cabin is filled with engine and road noise, leaving it with an unluxurious feel on long trips. In terms of fuel economy, the car is middling, with a city/highway fuel economy rating of 19/25 mpg.
While critics have voiced concerns about road noise and mileage, the 2007 Equinox still receives favorable reviews. Nevertheless, safety ratings are an important issue to keep in mind. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated the 2007 Equinox mediocre to poor compared to earlier models. Seats, headrests, and side impacts received marginal ratings, while roof strength was deemed satisfactory.
Avoid: 2010
Equinox owners in the first few years of the model’s production were unimpressed with its performance. The 2010 model received more than 1,000 complaints and three recalls, most of which were associated with severe oil consumption issues. As a result of the problems not being resolved, piston rings would have to be replaced at best, while at worst the engine would have to be dismantled. A timing chain failure has been reported in 2010, 2011 and 2012 for V6 models, especially the ones with four cylinders, which consume the most oil.
Moreover, the 2010 model offered less comfort and gadgetry than its rivals. The interior materials used by GM are of poor quality, according to consumers. The recalls for this model include one for electrical system issues and one for seat adjuster issues, as well as one for defroster and defogger problems.
Many Equinox models from previous years don’t suffer from the same problems as 2010, making it one of the best to avoid.
Avoid: 2013
In the first few years of Equinox’s second generation, more than 1,000 complaints were received. It was not possible for Chevrolet to completely resolve the engine problems despite its best efforts. Lawyers are suing for class action due to allegations that piston rings wear out prematurely.
In addition, Consumer Reports found several problems with the company. The climate control system, paint and trim, anti-lock brakes, electrical components, transmissions, steering and suspension as well as the fuel systems have also been reported to be problematic, although not as serious as a damaged piston ring.
A distinguishing feature of the 2013 Equinox is Mercedes-Benz’ attention to the interior, which features premium finishes, two-tone paint colors, and an appealing dashboard. Even though they are not premium materials, these materials are a significant improvement over previous versions. The 2013 Equinox is recommended to be avoided despite its mechanical issues.
Also Read
- Ram EcoDiesel Years to Avoid
- Ford V10 Years to Avoid
- Chevy Trax Years to Avoid
- Ford Escape Years to Avoid
- Honda Pilot Years to Avoid
- Toyota Camry Years to Avoid
Frequently Asked Questions: Chevy Equinox Years to Avoid
Q: What are the main problems with first generation Chevy Equinox?
Several Chevy Equinox models had problems with passenger airbags, low crash test ratings in IIHS, and malfunctioning heaters inside the cabin between 2005 and 2007. The Equinox is not as suitable a family vehicle as its predecessors due to these issues.
Q: How does the 2010-2017 Chevy Equinox compare to the previous models?
From 2010-2017, several issues were encountered with the Equinox, including poor fuel efficiency (especially in models with 2.4L engines), multiple safety recalls, and a poorly designed LATCH system for child safety seats in the 2017 model. There were several issues with Equinox models between 2010 and 2017, including poor fuel economy (especially with 2.4L engines), multiple safety recalls, and a poorly designed LATCH system. Further, some of these engines consumed excessive oil, contributing to higher repair costs.
Q: What are the best Chevy Equinox models when it comes to reliability?
Chevrolet’s third-generation Equinox has received numerous accolades for its reliability and low maintenance requirements. New or recently updated used Chevy Equinoxes are generally recommended.
Q: Did any Chevy Equinox models fall victim to Takata’s airbag recall?
Yes, Takata’s massive automobile recall affected both first and second generations of Chevy Equino Takata’s huge recall affected both the first and second generation Chevrolet Equinox.
Q: Chevrolet Equinoxes are typically reliable?
It is not uncommon for Chevrolet Equinox owners to experience reliability issues. Model years can make a difference in how reliable the vehicle is for families, and how problematic it may be for owners. The buying process for a used Equinox starts with choosing the right vehicle.
Q: What is the typical price of a used Chevy Equinox?
An Equinox from the 2010 or 2011 model year with around 150,000 miles might cost between $4,000 and $5,000 old Equinox from the 2010 or 2011 model year could cost as much as $5,000 to $4,000 with 150,000 miles on it. Newer products, however, will cost substantially more. CoPilot Price Pulse estimates that a 2021 Chevrolet Equinox will sell for $24,851. As a result of the lower availability of used cars, the price has risen by 26 percent.
Q: Do you recommend the Chevy Equinox for purchase?
It will depend on the circumstances. If you are looking to buy a used Chevrolet Equinox, you should choose the model year carefully. The reliability of some Equinox years is renowned for being unreliable and expensive. Research, however, can help guide you in the right direction. Find out which years were the most reliable for Chevrolet Equinox.
Conclusion
It has been found that evaluating a used car is difficult. An integrated approach is necessary to decide which products are best and those that should be avoided. Along with our weekend wrench turning activities, a wide range of data points play a part in our decision-making process. As a result of different treatment throughout its life, a car hasn’t received the care it would like to receive. According to our analysis, the most reliable Tahoes are those with a market value between $30,000 and $50,000, federal safety information, consumer reports, recalls, and IIHTS and NTHSA data.
