The Chevrolet Equinox, a popular compact SUV introduced in 2005, has become a go-to choice for American families thanks to its spacious interior, decent fuel economy, and comfortable ride. It has been Chevrolet’s answer to the growing demand for small SUVs, offering plenty of features for its price. But not all Equinox models deliver the same level of satisfaction. If you’re shopping for a used Equinox, here’s a guide to the seven model years you should avoid due to reliability issues and costly repairs.

2005 (and through 2007): Early-Model Growing Pains

Chevrolet launched the Equinox in 2005, but these early models came with a range of problems. Major issues included head gasket failure and coolant leaks, leading to engine overheating and expensive repairs. The 3.4-liter V6 engine used in this first generation also had reliability issues, impacting its longevity. Repair costs for these engine problems could easily exceed $1,000, making these models risky choices for buyers on a budget​.​

2010: Persistent Engine Issues

The 2010 Equinox saw changes in the engine lineup, including the addition of a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, but this update brought new challenges. CarComplaints.com confirms owners reported excessive oil consumption, leading to engine damage if oil levels weren’t carefully monitored. The constant need to top up oil turned off many buyers, and if the problem went unchecked, it could result in significant repair costs​.​

2011: Transmission and Engine Problems

The 2011 Equinox continued to suffer from high oil consumption and engine stalling issues. Drivers also noted frequent transmission issues, like rough shifting and transmission failures, which could cost thousands to fix. Additionally, some owners reported clunking noises and a generally uncomfortable driving experience. The combination of engine and transmission problems makes this year particularly risky​.​

2012: Reliability Decline Continues

For the 2012 model, Chevrolet didn’t fully resolve the ongoing oil consumption and transmission issues. Drivers still faced high maintenance costs due to engine damage and stalling problems. With ongoing reports of transmission trouble and poor fuel efficiency, the 2012 Equinox remains a model year that many experts and owners recommend avoiding​.​

2013: High Oil Consumption Persists

In 2013, Chevrolet continued to refine the Equinox, but the excessive oil consumption problem remained. Owners also noted visibility issues, especially from the rear, which impacted safety. Furthermore, the 2013 model still lagged behind competitors in terms of cargo space, which disappointed buyers who needed an SUV for family and gear hauling​.

2015: Electrical and Battery Issues

The 2015 Equinox struggled with a new set of problems, particularly with its battery and electrical system. Some owners reported rapid battery drain and issues with dashboard displays and infotainment systems, with features like the radio intermittently malfunctioning. While it was an improvement in some areas, the 2015 model’s electrical issues made it an unreliable option​.​

2018: New Design, Persistent Problems

Chevrolet introduced a redesigned Equinox for 2018, hoping to improve on previous models. However, this model year saw increased complaints about engine problems, including reports of stalling and rough idling. Although the new design looked promising, the 2018 Equinox continued to suffer from reliability concerns. Buyers hoping for a fresh start with this redesign might want to consider other years​.​

If you’re on the hunt for a good used Equinox, don’t forget to check out MotorBiscuit’s seamless car buying tool to compare models and find the best deal in your area.

Chevrolet Equinox has had a mixed history, with certain model years delivering better reliability than others. While newer models show improvement, these seven years stand out for their high maintenance costs and frequent issues. For a dependable used Equinox, consider models like the 2016-2017 or 2019-2021, which have better reliability ratings and fewer owner complaints.