2019 Chevrolet Equinox Reliability ReportKeepScore 78/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2019 Chevrolet Equinox
- Scores 5 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox earns a 83.
- The system most likely to surface first: 1.5l engine oil consumption (major severity).
- Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the power train:automatic transmission.
2019 Chevrolet Equinox: Buy or Avoid?
The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox is a generally capable and comfortable compact SUV, but it comes with a notable caveat: the widespread oil consumption issues on the 1.5L turbocharged engine. While other systems are robust, this engine weakness demands meticulous pre-purchase inspection and ongoing vigilance to prevent costly powertrain repairs. If you find a well-maintained 2.0L model, your confidence level can increase significantly.
While the 2019 Equinox offers a comfortable and practical package, the significant reliability concerns surrounding the 1.5L engine's oil consumption necessitate a cautious approach. If you can secure a 2.0L model with a solid service history, it becomes a much more appealing and confident purchase, otherwise, be pr…
Best Model Years
2020-2024 (later models with updated 1.5L and better transmission integration)
Years to Avoid
2017-2019 (specifically 1.5L models due to widespread oil consumption concerns)
Biggest Strengths
- Comfortable ride quality
- Spacious interior for its class
- Generally robust 2.0L engine option
2019 Chevrolet Equinox — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The 1.5L turbocharged engine is prone to excessive oil consumption due to issues with piston rings and/or the PCV system (TSB 19-NA-202 addresses some concerns). This can lead to low oil levels, premature timing chain wear, carbon buildu…
Owners frequently report the MyLink infotainment system freezing, lagging, or intermittently failing to connect with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. While often resolved with a reset, persistent issues can be frustrating and may require soft…
While less widespread than the engine issue, some owners have reported premature failure of the AC compressor or related components, leading to a loss of cooling. This is often an expensive repair due to parts and labor involved.
2019 Chevrolet Equinox Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, most vehicles are still within their factory warranty period, and significant issues are rare. Focus on verifying proper routine maintenance.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage often marks the end of powertrain warranties and the start of more intensive maintenance. Be diligent about fluid changes and inspections. This is where 1.5L oil consumption might become apparent.
Elevated Risk Zone
Beyond the typical warranty periods, you're more likely to encounter wear-related component failures. Proactive inspection of all major systems is essential.
High Risk Zone
At this point, the likelihood of major component failure significantly increases, especially if maintenance has been neglected. Budget for potential high-cost repairs.
2019 Chevrolet Equinox Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-650
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., AC compressor, major suspension work)
How Long Does the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox Last?
For the 1.5L engine, avoid high-mileage examples unless comprehensive engine repair records (e.g., piston ring replacement) are provided. For the 2.0L, mileage up to 100,000 can be acceptable with proper maintenance documentation.
What 2019 Chevrolet Equinox Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Smooth and comfortable highway ride
- Quiet cabin, especially at speed
- User-friendly infotainment interface (when working)
- Spacious rear seats and decent cargo capacity
Common Frustrations
- Annoying engine oil consumption (1.5L)
- Infotainment system can be glitchy and freeze
- Fuel economy for the 2.0L can be disappointing
- Interior materials feel somewhat cheap in places
Who Should Buy the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox?
Best For
- Buyers prioritizing comfort over absolute sportiness
- Families needing decent rear seat space and cargo room
- Those who find a well-maintained 2.0L model
Not Ideal For
- Anyone who wants bulletproof long-term reliability without proactive monitoring
- Drivers who neglect regular oil level checks (especially with 1.5L)
How the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox Compares to Rivals
The Equinox offers a comfortable, quiet ride and strong optional engine, but its overall reliability, particularly with the 1.5L, lags behind the class leaders from Honda, Toyota, and Mazda, which are known for their consistent long-term durability.
More Reliable Than
- Nissan Rogue (CVT issues)
- Ford Escape (some engine/transmission issues)
Comparable To
- Jeep Cherokee
- Hyundai Tucson
Safety Recalls on the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox
4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Equinox, Impala, Cruze, Volt and Bolt EV vehicles, GMC Terrain vehicles, Buick Lacrosse and Regal vehicles, Cadillac XTS and XTS Professional vehicles and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons may have an insufficient coating causing gas pockets to form, potentially reducing rear brake performance.
What breaks on the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Chevrolet Equinox — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Chevrolet Equinox. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2019s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2019 Chevrolet Equinox
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Frequently Asked Questions
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