Chevrolet Equinox is a crossover SUV that has been in production for many generations. The best and worst years for each Chevrolet Equinox generation are listed below.
With this guide, I’ll show you which Equinox generation is best to buy and which Equinox generation to avoid.
I have synthesized extensive information about Chevy Equinox’s standout features, problems, and recalls based on data from authoritative sources like NHTSA, Consumer Reports, and others.
In this article, you’ll find insights on each generation, highlighting the best and worst years for buying a Chevy Equinox.
Let’s get started.
Chevrolet Equinox Generations
With its V6 engine and versatile rear-sliding bench, the Chevrolet Equinox carved a niche in the crossover SUV market, appealing to families as well as urbanites looking for a fuel-efficient SUV.
From its conception to the present, here’s a concise history of the Chevrolet Equinox:
| Generation | Years |
| 1st generation (GMT191) | 2005-2009 |
| 2nd generation (GMT172) | 2010-2017 |
| 3rd generation (GMD2XX) | 2018-Present |
When considering a purchase or merely curious about the SUV’s evolution, understanding the generational shifts could be the key to making an informed decision.
Chevrolet Equinox Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
We consider the following factors when categorizing Chevy Equinox’s best and worst years:
In the table below, based on accumulated data, every Chevy Equinox model year is classified as best, neutral, or worst.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
| 1st generation (GMT191) | 2009 | N/A | 2005 2006 2007 2008 |
| 2nd generation (GMT172) | 2016 2017 | 2014 2015 | 2010 2011 2012 2013 |
| 3rd generation (GMD2XX) | 2019 2020 2021 2023 | N/A | 2018 2022 |
We categorize “Neutral Years” as model years with consistent performance without notable highlights.
The NHTSA recalls, for instance, have a negative impact on our rankings, despite several factors influencing them. Cars with an increase in complaints and recalls tend to be less reliable.
The best, neutral, and worst Chevrolet Equinox years are listed below.
Best & Worst Years for Chevrolet Equinox 1st Generation (2005-2009)
As Chevrolet’s first attempt at a compact crossover SUV, the Equinox was introduced in 2004.
As evidenced by its 85 J.D. Power score, 2009 was Chevy Equinox’s best year in this generation. A Chevy Equinox should not be purchased in 2005, 2006, 2007, or 2008.
The Best Years: 2009
With enhanced features and fewer issues than previous model years, 2009 was the Chevy Equinox’s best year.
An automatic transmission is available with the 2009 Equinox. The engine is a 3.4L V6 engine.
A variety of trim levels were offered for the 2009 version, ranging from the entry-level LS to the more luxurious LTZ with upgraded audio, navigation, and interior upgrades.
Additionally, advanced airbag systems and stability control features were included.
While there were certainly issues this year, they were fewer and less severe than in previous years, making it the best year for the first-generation Chevy Equinox.
The Worst Years: 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
The Chevy Equinox should be avoided in 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008 because they have numerous NHTSA complaints and poor ratings from previous owners.
Several issues plagued Chevy Equinox owners starting with the 2005 model year, including electrical system malfunctions, joint head gasket failures, engine overheating, transmission failures, and recurrent steering issues.
There was also a flaw with the heater system of the 2006 Chevy Equinox, which often blew cold air. There were also intermittent problems with the brakes, as the ABS engaged intermittently.
A defect in the passenger side airbag sensor and problems with the power steering continued into the 2007 and 2008 Chevy Equinox models.
An odor of fuel around the vehicle and reports of fuel leakage were among the most significant and potentially hazardous concerns.
NHTSA recalls and complaints for the Chevrolet Equinox for 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008.
Best & Worst Years for Chevrolet Equinox 2nd Generation (2010-2017)
During the second generation of the Chevy Equinox, which spanned from 2010 to 2017, the brand refined and innovated.
The Chevy Equinox’s best years in 2016 and 2017 were marked by high owner ratings on VehicleHistory, Cars.com, and Consumer Reports. Among this generation’s Chevy Equinox years, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013 are the ones to avoid.
The Best Years: 2016, 2017
Two of the best Equinox years in the second-generation Chevy Equinox lineage were 2016 and 2017.
Customers could choose between a 4-cylinder engine rated at 2.4L and a powerful 6-cylinder engine rated at 3.6L.
2016 and 2017 models came in four trim levels: L, LS, LT, and LTZ, with each step up adding more luxurious and technological features.
In spite of this, excessive oil consumption remained a potential stumbling block.
This is something prospective buyers should keep an eye on, although it is worth noting that these years are celebrated for their advancements principally.
The Neutral Years: 2014, 2015
For the Equinox, 2014 and 2015 can be considered transitional years.
It was apparent that there was an effort made to iron out kinks in the engine options, but the options remained consistent.
VehicleHistory and Cars.com received decent ratings from previous owners for these years, indicating that while they had their merits, they also had some of their predecessors’ problems, namely excessive oil consumption.
The Worst Years: 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
How do I know which Chevy Equinox years are bad? In the first three years of the second generation – 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013, the NHTSA received a staggering number of complaints and recalls, so we categorised them as Chevy Equinox years to avoid.
Engine problems, such as stalling and high oil consumption, were criticized in the 2010 model. As well as that, this year’s windshield defrosting and defogging systems had major problems.
The defrosting system was mainly affected by Chevrolet’s recalls, which addressed these issues.
In 2011, 2012, and 2013, Chevrolet Equinox models continued to have engine problems, especially high oil consumption.
More reports of engine stalling and timing chain problems have been reported with the 2013 Chevrolet Equinox.
Chevrolet Equinox complaints and recalls from NHTSA for 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013.
Best & Worst Years for Chevrolet Equinox 3rd Generation (2018-Present)
By entering its third generation, Chevrolet aimed to redefine Equinox’s position among compact SUVs.
Chevrolet Equinox’s best years in this generation are 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2023, with Consumer Reports and Cars.com scores higher than average. Despite the fact that 2022 is still commendable due to many recalls, it is better to avoid 2018 and 2022 when it comes to Chevy Equinox model years.
The Best Years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023
Can you tell me which years of the Chevy Equinox are the best? 2019 through 2023 are the best years in the third generation for the Chevy Equinox based on reliability and owner satisfaction scores.
Chevy Equinox, for example, offers a range of engine options that cater to various consumer preferences, including turbocharged 1.5L and 2.0L engines, along with turbodiesel 1.6L engines.
In addition to offering a wide range of trims, Chevrolet offered a more luxurious “Premier” trim level.
Lane-keeping assist, forward-collision alert, and automatic braking became standard.
With its innovative technology features and exceptional driving experience, the 2023 Chevy Equinox has already received high praise.
A Consumer Reports study found that fuel efficiency averaged 17 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
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The Worst Years: 2018, 2022
The introductory year of 2018 and the facelifted year of 2022 received relatively low ratings from owners. Our Chevy Equinox years to avoid category is based on the number of NHTSA recalls combined with the number of Chevrolet Equinox recalls.
In 2018, the 2018 Chevy Equinox suffered significant setbacks due to vacuum pump failures, leading to service brake issues. As a result of insufficient coating on the pistons of the rear brake calipers, GM issued a recall.
It was alarming that this brake issue did not affect just the 2018 model but also the 2019 and 2020 models.
Engine stalling in the Chevy Equinox 2022 was caused by a faulty fuel pump module. A recall was issued by GM to rectify this problem in 2023.
Common Chevrolet Equinox Problems Across All Models
Some Chevy Equinox models are more reliable than others, according to reliability ratings. All Equinox models have the following issues:
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Frequently Asked Questions: Chevy Equinox Years to Avoid
What are the main issues with the first-generation (2005-2007) Chevy Equinox?
In 2005-2007 Chevy Equinox models, the passenger airbag failed to deploy, the IIHS crash test rating was poor, and the interior heater failed to work. Due to these issues, the first-generation Equinox is less attractive to families.
What are the main concerns with the 2010-2017 Chevy Equinox models?
From 2010-2017, Equinox models suffered several issues, including poor fuel efficiency (especially those with 2.4L engines), several safety recalls, and a poorly designed LATCH system for child safety seats. This generation of engines also suffered from excessive oil consumption, which could lead to costly repairs such as engine replacements.
Which Chevy Equinox models have the best reputation for reliability?
Its reliability and lack of significant maintenance issues have been praised for the third generation Chevy Equinox. It is generally considered to be best to look for a used Chevy Equinox model from 2018 and newer.
Were any Chevy Equinox models affected by the Takata airbag recall?
First and second generations of Chevy Equinox were affected by the Takata airbag recall, the largest ever in U.S. history.
Are Chevy Equinoxes typically reliable?
It can be very hit or miss when it comes to reliability with the Chevrolet Equinox. Depending on the model year, some family haulers will likely be reliable, while others will probably cause owners headaches. When buying a used Equinox, you need to make sure it is the right model for you.
How much does a used Chevy Equinox typically cost?
Older Chevy Equinox models with about 150,000 miles might cost between $4,000 and $5,000. For something much newer, prices will rise considerably. According to CoPilot Price Pulse, the average asking price for a 2021 Chevrolet Equinox is $24,851. Because of the shortage of used cars, this amount reflects a 26% increase over normal pricing.
Is the Chevy Equinox a good car to purchase?
Depending on the situation. It is important for used car buyers to choose the Chevy Equinox model year carefully. In some Equinox years, reliability can be an issue and ownership is expensive. You can, however, find out what is best for you by doing thorough research.
Conclusion
Our exploration of the Chevrolet Equinox wraps up with the conclusion that the model years 2019-2023 are the best Chevy Equinox years for their commendable features and reliability.
What Chevrolet Equinox model year aligns best with your needs, according to our analysis?