Chevrolet Equinox Years to AvoidThe weakest years — and the one you should buy instead

Excessive oil consumption due to faulty piston rings leads to eventual engine damage or failure. This also starves the timing chain for lubrication, leading to premature wear and failure, often resulting in bent valves and total engine destruction. GM issued a Special Coverage Adjustment (12313A) for some of these issues.

The 6-speed automatic transmission is prone to harsh shifting, slipping, and occasional complete failure, often related to faulty solenoids or torque converter issues. Some owners report premature wear requiring rebuilds or replacement.

Various electrical components can fail, including HVAC blower motor resistors, door lock actuators, power window switches, and issues with the infotainment system. While often not immobilizing, these can be frequent and frustrating.

The 4-speed automatic transmission is prone to 3rd/4th gear clutch pack failure, TCC (Torque Converter Clutch) issues, and solenoid malfunctions, leading to harsh shifts, slipping, or complete failure. This is often due to internal wear and heat.

Common issues include premature wear of lower control arm bushings, sway bar end links, and strut mounts, resulting in clunks, rattles, and poor handling. Power steering pump leaks and intermediate steering shaft clunk are also prevalent.

Owners report issues with the Body Control Module (BCM) causing various electrical gremlins, power window motor failures, faulty HVAC blend door actuators, and occasional intermittent sensor errors.

The 2.4L direct-injection engine is prone to excessive oil consumption due to faulty piston rings, leading to premature timing chain wear and potential catastrophic engine failure if oil levels are not constantly monitored and topped off. This can also foul spark plugs and catalytic converters.

Directly linked to the oil consumption issue in the 2.4L engine, low oil levels and breakdown contribute to timing chain stretch. This can cause check engine lights, rough running, and eventually a broken chain leading to bent valves and total engine destruction.

Failures of the blower motor, blower motor resistor, and blend door actuators are common, leading to inconsistent or non-functioning climate control. Power window switches and door lock actuators also exhibit higher-than-average failure rates.

Excessive oil consumption due to faulty piston rings and PCV valve issues often leads to premature timing chain stretch or failure. This can quickly escalate to catastrophic engine damage.

Some owners report harsh shifting, delayed engagement, or complete transmission failure due to worn internal components or solenoid issues. This is less widespread than engine problems but still significant.

A common failure point, the blower motor resistor can cause the HVAC fan to work only on certain speeds or not at all. While not critical for driving, it's a frequent frustration.

The 2.4L Ecotec engine is notorious for excessive oil consumption due to piston ring issues, leading to oil starvation, stretched timing chains, and premature engine wear. This can result in costly repairs or engine replacement.

The 6-speed automatic transmission can suffer from hard shifts, delayed engagement, and solenoid failures. Torque converter shudder is also reported, contributing to a less refined driving experience and potential repair needs.

Common issues include failing HVAC blend door actuators causing inconsistent temperature control, power window motor/regulator failures, and occasional glitches with the infotainment system.