Which Chevy Equinox Years to Avoid and Why

Equinox has been around for over a decade and has undergone several changes since its introduction in 2005. While some of these changes have improved the performance and reliability of the vehicle, others have led to issues that have affected specific model years. In this article, we will examine which Chevy Equinox years to avoid and why. We will discuss common problems owners have reported with specific model years and any recalls or technical service bulletins associated with those vehicles.

Which Chevy Equinox Years to Avoid

The Chevy Equinox is a popular compact SUV known for its spacious cabin and fuel-efficient engine. However, not all model years are created equal. Some Equinoxes have been plagued with issues that make them less reliable and more expensive to maintain than others. If you’re in the market for a used Chevy Equinox, here are the years you’ll want to avoid.

• Chevy Equinox 2005-2007 [First Generation Models]
• Chevy Equinox 2010-2017 [Second Generation Models]

You should avoid these years if you want a pleasant driving experience with the Chevy Equinox.

2005 Chevy Equinox Problems

The 2005 Chevy Equinox is a compact SUV introduced in the market as an excellent choice for those looking for something comfortable and spacious. Over time, it has become clear that this vehicle has some significant issues.

Here are some significant problems with the 2005 Chevy Equinox:

Air Conditioning Malfunction

The cause of the air conditioning malfunction in the 2005 Chevy Equinox can vary from a leak in the AC system to a faulty compressor. This issue has occurred multiple times for some owners and required costly repairs. While this problem may seem minor, during hot summer months or in areas with high temperatures year-round, having correctly functioning AC is essential for driver and passenger comfort. 

Transmission Problems

Many owners reported that their vehicles had trouble shifting gears or slipping out of equipment entirely, leading to other problems down the line. Some even experienced complete transmission failure, which required expensive repairs or replacement.

Most 2005 Chevy Equinox have the following trouble codes:

• P0716
• P0777
• P0776
• P2715
• P0717
• P2714
• P0711

2006 Chevy Equinox Problems

The 2006 Chevy Equinox was introduced as a mid-size crossover SUV and was designed to be reliable, stylish, and functional. Over the years, several problems have been identified with this vehicle. Some issues are minor, while others can be significant and costly.

2007 Chevy Equinox Problems

The 2007 Chevy Equinox has been a popular crossover SUV for over a decade. While this vehicle boasts impressive features and capabilities, it is not immune to problems with age and wear. 

The problems are:

Heater Failure Issues

The 2007 Chevy Equinox has been known to have some issues, particularly with the heater. Many owners have reported problems with the heating system failing to work correctly. This can be a significant issue during cold winters, leaving drivers and passengers without proper heat.

Poor Safety Ratings

The 2007 Chevy Equinox has also received poor safety ratings from various organizations. In particular, it did not perform well in frontal crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Airbag Malfunction

The issue originated from a faulty wiring harness that connected the seat belt pre-tensioner to the car’s mainframe. This led to a failure in communication between multiple systems within the vehicle, causing various problems, such as disabling key components like airbags and seatbelts. As a result, it jeopardized driver and passenger safety, making it risky for anyone on board.

2010 Chevy Equinox Problems

One of the most frequently reported issues with the 2010 Chevy Equinox is related to its engine and transmission. Some owners have complained about engine stalling or misfiring, while others have experienced transmission problems such as rough shifting or slipping gears.

This model gets a 71/100 reliability rating.

2011 Chevy Equinox Problems

The 2011 Chevy Equinox was one of the most popular SUVs released that year. It came with two significant issues that affected its overall performance and safety. 

The issues are:

Poor Fuel Economy

Despite being marketed as having excellent gas mileage, many drivers have found that their Equinox is guzzling gas at an alarming rate. Some have reported getting only 15-16 miles per gallon in city driving conditions, which is significantly lower than the estimated 22-32 mpg advertised by Chevy. This can be frustrating and expensive for drivers hoping to save money on gas with their new vehicle.

Steering Failure Problem

The steering system in some 2011 Chevy Equinox models can fail unexpectedly while driving. This can result in loss of control and potentially dangerous situations. In many cases, drivers reported feeling a sudden loss of power steering assistance or noticing abnormal noises before the steering failed.

2012 Chevy Equinox Problems

The 2012 Chevy Equinox is a popular crossover SUV with mixed consumer reviews. While it offers an impressive amount of space and solid fuel economy, there have been some significant problems reported with this vehicle.

The 2012 Chevy Equinox has the same engine, transmission, and fuel consumption issues as the 2011 Chevy Equinox.

2013 Chevy Equinox Problems

The 2013 Chevy Equinox has been known to have a few common problems that owners should be aware of. One issue is excessive oil consumption, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly. 

The 2013 Chevy Equinox has the following problems:

1. Air conditioning control issues
2. Infotainment system malfunction
3. Electrical system malfunction
4. Issues with emergency alerts.

2014 Chevy Equinox Problems

The 2014 Chevy Equinox is a compact SUV with versatility, style, and affordability. It comes in four trim levels: LS, LT, LTZ, and the high-performance Sport model. All models have a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine that delivers 182 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque.

The 2014 Chevy Equinox also has problems, including

1. Faulty compressor
2. Transmission issues
3. Exhaust leaks
4. Braking issues.

2015 Chevy Equinox Problems

The 2015 Chevy Equinox has been popular with drivers who want an affordable and reliable SUV. Some owners have reported experiencing various problems with their vehicles. One of the most common complaints is related to the transmission. Several drivers have reported that their Equinoxes experience hesitation or jerking when shifting gears, which can be a safety concern.

2016 Chevy Equinox Problems

Some common issues emerged as time passed, and owners started logging miles on their vehicles. Many drivers’ experience with their Equinox was related to its powertrain. Some owners reported that their cars would suddenly lose power or stall out while driving, which could be dangerous and potentially lead to an accident.

2017 Chevy Equinox Problems

The 2017 Chevy Equinox has been a popular choice for families looking for a reliable and comfortable SUV. There have been some reported problems with this model that potential buyers should be aware of. 

The 2017 Chevy Equinox has the following problems:

1. Heater issues
2. Engine seal issues
3. Infotainment issues
4. Vehicle acceleration issues.

The Solution to Chevy Equinox Problems

Except for these models, other model years are available at the same price, which is reliable and well-performing. It would be best if you avoided the mentioned Equinox model years.

For significant problems, go to your dealership if the warranty is available, or you can take your SUV to a mechanical shop for proper treatment.

Chevy Equinox Best Years to Select

The Chevy Equinox has been a popular choice for compact SUV enthusiasts since its introduction in 2005. Over the years, this car has undergone several changes and upgrades to make it more luxurious, comfortable, and reliable. If you plan to buy a used Equinox, you must know which model years are the best.

Listed below are the best years for the Chevy Equinox:

• 2008 Chevy Equinox
• 2009 Chevy Equinox
• 2018 Chevy Equinox
• 2019 Chevy Equinox
• 2021 Chevy Equinox
• 2022 Chevy Equinox
• 2023 Chevy Equinox

Also read Chevy Avalanche Best Years to Buy.

Conclusion

Knowing which Chevy Equinox years to avoid is vital before making a purchase. Based on our research, we recommend avoiding the 2010 and 2011 models due to their significant engine problems. The 2013 model has been known for its high oil consumption and transmission issues. The good news is that the newer Equinox models have improved significantly, so if you are looking for a reliable SUV, consider purchasing a more recent version. 

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