Chevrolet Equinox research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide

The Equinox is one of Chevrolet's best-selling SUVs: practical, comfortable and widely available used. The 2011-2017 models are larger, with a 2.4L four or a strong V6. The 2018-2024 models are smaller and more efficient with turbo engines, and from 2020 come with automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist. The redesigned 2025 adds bolder styling, bigger screens and Google built-in.

Model years covered: 2011–2026. The gasoline Equinox is in production (fourth generation from 2025). Verify 2026 specs against current Chevrolet data; Chevrolet plans to replace the FWD CVT with the 8-speed automatic for 2027. The Equinox EV is not covered here.

Last updated 2026-10-15.

Strengths

Roomy rear seat
Comfortable ride
Available AWD
Strong V6 option 2013 2017
Standard safety suite 2020 and later
Good highway mpg with diesel 2018 2019
Widely available parts and service

Things to know before you buy

2010 2013 2.4 liter oil consumption history
Engine choice varies by generation
2.0 liter turbo only 2018 2020
FWD 2025 2026 uses a CVT
Do not confuse with equinox EV
Recall status should be checked by VIN

Generations

Generation 2 (2010–2017)

The second-generation Equinox (2010-2017) is a larger compact SUV with a 182-hp, 172 lb-ft 2.4L four, a 264-hp 3.0L V6 (through 2012) or a 301-hp, 272 lb-ft 3.6L V6 (2013-2017), all with a 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD. A 2016 refresh updated the styling and made a rearview camera and touchscreen standard.

Buyer takeaway: Good value and space. For the four-cylinder, favor 2014-2017 and check oil consumption and timing-chain health; the 2013-2017 V6 is strong but thirstier.

Generation 3 (2018–2024)

The third-generation Equinox (2018-2024) is smaller and lighter, with a 1.5L turbo (170 hp, 175 hp from 2023) and 6-speed automatic, a 252-hp 2.0L turbo with a 9-speed for 2018-2020, and a 1.6L turbodiesel for 2018-2019. 2020 made automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist standard; 2022 brought a refresh, the RS trim and wireless smartphone integration.

Buyer takeaway: Choose 2020 or later for the standard safety suite, 2018-2020 for the more powerful 2.0L turbo, and 2022-2024 for the refreshed design. Confirm recalls by VIN.

Generation 4 (2025–present)

The fourth-generation Equinox (2025-present) uses a 1.5L turbo (about 175 hp, 203 lb-ft) with a CVT on FWD models and an 8-speed automatic on AWD models, an 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google built-in, and LT, RS and ACTIV trims.

Buyer takeaway: Best for buyers who want the newest design, tech and warranty coverage. AWD models with the 8-speed automatic suit buyers who prefer a conventional automatic.

Chevrolet Equinox by model year

2026 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2026 Equinox continues the fourth generation with the 1.5L turbo, a CVT on FWD models (about 26/29 mpg) and an 8-speed automatic with AWD (about 25/29 mpg). Drive-mode selection is now on every trim. Chevrolet has announced the CVT will be dropped for 2027; verify 2026 equipment against current Chevrolet data.

Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 175 hp 203 lb ft
Transmissions: CVT FWD; 8 speed automatic AWD
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Drive mode selector on all trims
Verify 2026 specs against current chevrolet data

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; CVT or 8 speed automatic behavior; Infotainment and google built in software; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; 1.5 liter turbo coolant level and leaks; AWD engagement and matched tires if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2025 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2025 Equinox is all-new, with bolder styling, an 11-inch digital cluster and an 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google built-in. It keeps a 1.5L turbo (about 175 hp, 203 lb-ft) but FWD models use a CVT (about 26/28 mpg) and AWD models an 8-speed automatic (about 24/29 mpg). Trims are LT, RS and the rugged-look ACTIV.

Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 175 hp 203 lb ft
Transmissions: CVT FWD; 8 speed automatic AWD
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV

What changed:

All new fourth generation
CVT on FWD and 8 speed automatic on AWD
New lt rs and activ trims
11 3 inch touchscreen with google built in
Boxier traverse inspired styling

2024 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2024 Equinox is the last third-generation model, with the 175-hp 1.5L turbo, 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD (about 26/31 mpg FWD). The battery-electric Equinox EV also arrived for 2024 but is a completely different vehicle. Buyers wanting a conventional 6-speed automatic rather than the 2025 FWD model's CVT may prefer 2018-2024.

Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 175 hp 203 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Final year of third generation
Equinox EV launched as a separate model

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; 1.5 liter turbo coolant level and leaks; Engine stop start operation; Transmission shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD engagement and matched tires if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2023 Chevrolet Equinox

For 2023 the 1.5L turbo was updated with a higher-pressure fuel system and rated 175 hp (203 lb-ft), still with a 6-speed automatic and about 26/31 mpg FWD. The refreshed styling, RS trim and standard safety features carry over. A 2023-2024 is the most developed third-generation Equinox.

Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 175 hp 203 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Updated 1.5 liter turbo rated 175 hp
Electro hydraulic brakes
Midnight and sport editions return on ls

2022 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2022 Equinox was refreshed with new front and rear styling, a sporty RS trim, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a stop-start off switch. It uses the 170-hp 1.5L turbo and 6-speed automatic (about 26/31 mpg FWD). Some 2021-2022 models are in a fuel pump module recall; check the VIN.

Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 170 hp 203 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Refreshed front and rear styling
New sporty rs trim
Wireless apple carplay and android auto
Base l trim dropped
Stop start deactivation switch

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Fuel pump recall completion; 1.5 liter turbo coolant level and leaks; Engine stop start operation; Transmission shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD engagement and matched tires if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2021 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2021 Equinox offers only the 170-hp 1.5L turbo with a 6-speed automatic (about 26/31 mpg FWD) after the 2.0L turbo was dropped. It keeps the standard safety suite added for 2020. Some 2021-2022 models were recalled for a fuel pump module that may not supply enough fuel, so confirm recall status by VIN.

Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 170 hp 203 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV

What changed:

2.0 liter turbo dropped
Only the 1.5 liter turbo offered
Leather available on lt

2020 Chevrolet Equinox

For 2020 the diesel was dropped and every Equinox gained standard forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist and automatic high beams. Engines are the 170-hp 1.5L turbo (about 26/31 mpg FWD) and, for its final year, the 252-hp 2.0L turbo with a 9-speed. A 2020 is a sweet spot for safety equipment and power choice.

Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 170 hp 203 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 252 hp 260 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 1.5T; 9 speed automatic 2.0T
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Diesel dropped
Standard automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist
Standard forward collision alert and intellibeam
Last year of the 2.0 liter turbo

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Fuel tank and accumulator recall completion; 1.5 liter turbo coolant level and leaks; Engine stop start operation; Transmission shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD engagement and matched tires if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2019 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2019 Equinox gets infotainment and USB updates and newly available adaptive cruise control and front pedestrian braking. Engines remain the 170-hp 1.5L turbo, 252-hp 2.0L turbo and, for the last time, the 1.6L diesel. Some 2019-2020 AWD models were recalled for a fuel-tank seam, and others for the transmission accumulator, so check the VIN.

Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 170 hp 203 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 252 hp 260 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbodiesel I4 137 hp 240 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 1 5t and diesel; 9 speed automatic 2.0T
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Infotainment and USB updates
Adaptive cruise and pedestrian braking available
Last year of the diesel

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Fuel tank and accumulator recall completion; Diesel emissions equipment if diesel; 1.5 liter turbo coolant level and leaks; Engine stop start operation; Transmission shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD engagement and matched tires if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2018 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2018 Equinox was fully redesigned, smaller and lighter, with turbocharged engines only: a 170-hp 1.5L turbo (6-speed automatic, about 26/32 mpg FWD), a 252-hp 2.0L turbo with a 9-speed automatic, or a 137-hp 1.6L turbodiesel (about 28/39 mpg FWD). Smartphone integration and stop-start are standard. Some 2018s were recalled for a front driveshaft, so check the VIN.

Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 170 hp 203 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 252 hp 260 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbodiesel I4 137 hp 240 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 1 5t and diesel; 9 speed automatic 2.0T
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV

What changed:

All new smaller third generation
Turbocharged engines only
New 1.6 liter turbodiesel option
Apple carplay android auto and stop start standard
AWD with driver selectable disconnect

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Driveshaft and accumulator recall completion; 1.5 liter turbo coolant level and leaks; Engine stop start operation; Transmission shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD engagement and matched tires if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2017 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2017 Equinox is the last of the second generation. The LTZ became Premier, and Midnight and Sport appearance packages were added. It keeps the 182-hp 2.4L four (about 21/31 mpg FWD) and the AWD-only 301-hp V6. Shoppers should compare it with the smaller, more efficient and more modern 2018 redesign.

Engines: 2.4 liter I4 182 hp 172 lb ft; 3.6 liter V6 301 hp 272 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Final year of second generation
Ltz renamed premier
Midnight and sport appearance packages

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Oil consumption and oil level on 2.4 liter; Timing chain noise or codes; 6 speed automatic shift quality; Check engine light and stored codes; AWD engagement and matched tires if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2016 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2016 Equinox got its only mid-cycle refresh: a new grille, headlights, front fascia and taillights, plus a standard rearview camera and 7-inch MyLink touchscreen on every trim. The 182-hp 2.4L four (about 22/31 mpg FWD) continues, and the 301-hp 3.6L V6 became AWD-only. A 2016-2017 is the most up-to-date second-generation Equinox.

Engines: 2.4 liter I4 182 hp 172 lb ft; 3.6 liter V6 301 hp 272 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Refreshed grille headlights and front fascia
Rearview camera and 7 inch mylink standard
Lt trims merged into one
V6 now AWD only

2015 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2015 Equinox adds OnStar 4G LTE with a Wi-Fi hotspot on LT and LTZ and a new base L trim. Engines carry over: 182-hp 2.4L four (about 22/31 mpg FWD) and 301-hp 3.6L V6, each with a 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD. It is a practical, roomy used SUV; maintenance history matters more than the exact year.

Engines: 2.4 liter I4 182 hp 172 lb ft; 3.6 liter V6 301 hp 272 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Onstar 4g lte wifi hotspot on lt and ltz
New base l trim
V6 flex fuel option dropped

2014 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2014 Equinox carries over the 182-hp 2.4L four (about 22/31 mpg FWD) and 301-hp 3.6L V6 (about 17/24 mpg FWD) with a 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD. It offers a spacious rear seat for the class. Oil-consumption complaints are less associated with later 2.4L engines than 2010-2013 ones, but checking oil level and records is still wise.

Engines: 2.4 liter I4 182 hp 172 lb ft; 3.6 liter V6 301 hp 272 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Largely carryover from 2013

2013 Chevrolet Equinox

For 2013 a direct-injected 3.6L V6 (301 hp, 272 lb-ft) replaced the 3.0L, adding much more power with similar EPA ratings (about 17/24 mpg FWD). The 182-hp 2.4L four remains the volume engine (about 22/31 mpg FWD). A safety package with lane departure and forward collision alerts became available. Check 2.4L engines for oil consumption.

Engines: 2.4 liter I4 182 hp 172 lb ft; 3.6 liter V6 301 hp 272 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV

What changed:

New 3.6 liter V6 with 301 hp replaces the 3.0 liter
Available lane departure and forward collision alert
USB port standard

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Oil consumption special coverage status; Oil consumption and oil level on 2.4 liter; Timing chain noise or codes; 6 speed automatic shift quality; Check engine light and stored codes; AWD engagement and matched tires if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2012 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2012 Equinox adds standard Bluetooth, a rearview camera and 7-inch touchscreen on more trims, and Chevrolet's MyLink system from spring 2012. Engines remain the 182-hp 2.4L four (about 22/31 mpg FWD) and the 264-hp 3.0L V6, with a 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD. Check 2.4L engines for oil consumption and timing-chain health.

Engines: 2.4 liter I4 182 hp 172 lb ft; 3.0 liter V6 264 hp 222 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV

What changed:

2.4 liter gains flex fuel capability
Mylink touchscreen introduced
Bluetooth standard
Forward collision and lane departure alerts on V6 ltz

2011 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2011 Equinox is a second-generation compact SUV with a roomy back seat and a sliding rear bench. The base 2.4L four-cylinder (182 hp, 172 lb-ft) is rated about 22/31 mpg with FWD; LT and LTZ can have a 264-hp 3.0L V6. Both use a 6-speed automatic with FWD or AWD. 2.4L engines from these years are known for oil consumption, so check oil level and records.

Engines: 2.4 liter I4 182 hp 172 lb ft; 3.0 liter V6 264 hp 222 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV

What changed:

3.0 liter V6 gains flex fuel capability
Bluetooth and USB standard on lt

Known issues and what to check

2.4L Oil Consumption and Timing Chain Wear (2011-2017) (2011–2017)
Second-generation Equinoxes with the 2.4L four, especially 2010-2013 models, are known for excessive oil consumption linked to piston rings, which GM addressed with special warranty coverage for certain vehicles. Low oil can also accelerate timing-chain wear. Coverage terms and eligibility depend on the VIN and may have expired.
What to do: Check the oil level and records, and ask a Chevrolet dealer whether the piston-ring repair or coverage applies.
Third-Generation Driveshaft, Fuel Tank and Fuel Pump Recalls (2018–2022)
Several recalls apply to specific third-generation builds: a 2018 right front intermediate driveshaft that may fracture (17V-516), a 2019-2020 AWD fuel-tank seam that may leak (19V-667), and a 2021-2022 fuel pump module that may not supply enough fuel (23V-013).
What to do: Run the VIN and have any open recall completed before purchase.
Transmission Stop/Start Accumulator Recall (2018-2020) (2018–2020)
Recall 20V-668 covers certain 2018-2020 Equinoxes: the transmission's stop/start accumulator end cap may be missing bolts, which can leak transmission fluid. Dealers inspect and replace it if needed, at no charge.
What to do: Confirm this recall is complete on an affected Equinox.
1.6L Diesel Emissions Equipment (2018-2019) (2018–2019)
The 2018-2019 Equinox diesel uses a diesel particulate filter and diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). It is a low-volume engine, so emissions-system repairs and parts can be costly or slow, and short-trip driving can cause filter problems.
What to do: Scan for emissions codes and review service records before buying an Equinox diesel.
AWD System and Tire Matching (2011–2026)
AWD Equinoxes should be checked for smooth engagement and properly matched tires. Third-generation models let the driver switch AWD off; mismatched tire sizes or wear can stress AWD components.
What to do: Make sure all four tires match and test AWD operation on the drive.
Equinox vs. Equinox EV and GMC Terrain (2011–2026)
The Equinox EV (2024 and later) is a separate battery-electric vehicle that shares only the name. The GMC Terrain is a related sibling with different styling and equipment. Equinox engines also changed sharply by generation: 2.4L/V6 (2011-2017), 1.5T/2.0T/diesel (2018-2024) and 1.5T with CVT or 8-speed (2025-2026).
What to do: Confirm generation, engine and whether the vehicle is an Equinox EV by VIN before comparing.

Recalls

Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, drivetrain and VIN. Check the VIN for current open recalls and completed remedies.

Similar vehicles to consider

GMC Terrain
Honda CR-V
Toyota RAV4
Ford Escape
Nissan Rogue
Hyundai Tucson
Kia Sportage
Mazda CX-5
Subaru Forester
Volkswagen Tiguan

Questions this guide answers

What generation is this Chevrolet Equinox?
What engine does this Equinox have?
Does the 2.4L Equinox burn oil?
Which Equinox years have the 2.0L turbo or diesel?
Which Equinox years have standard automatic emergency braking?
Does the 2025 Equinox have a CVT?
Is this an Equinox or an Equinox EV?
What recalls should I check by VIN?
What should I inspect on a used Equinox?
What similar vehicles should I consider?