Is the Chevy Equinox Reliable? Engine Problems by Year
By Caropsy · June 30, 2026 · 5 min read
The Chevy Equinox is one of the most affordable compact SUVs on the used market, which drives a lot of reliability searches from budget-conscious buyers. The honest picture: solid in some years, with a documented oil consumption issue in the 1.5L turbo that's worth knowing about.
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Budget-friendly with a real engine caveatThe 1.5L turbo engine has documented oil consumption issues on certain model years.
Best years to buy used
2021–2023 (later 3rd gen)GM addressed the worst of the early 1.5L turbo oil consumption complaints by this point through revised piston rings and software updates. The safer window if you want the turbo engine.
2010–2015 (2nd gen, 2.4L)The naturally aspirated 2.4L from this generation, while not turbocharged or as powerful, has a simpler and more proven track record. A solid budget pick if power isn't the priority.
Years to think twice about
2018–2020 (1.5L turbo, early)Documented oil consumption complaints on the 1.5L turbo from these years — some owners report needing to add oil between scheduled changes. Check oil level before buying and ask about consumption history.
💡 Ask any Equinox seller directly about oil consumption — it's a known enough issue that an honest seller should have an answer.
Common problems to know
Oil consumption (1.5L turbo, 2018–2020): The headline issue. Check oil level and ask about top-off frequency.
Timing chain (2.4L, 2010–2015): Some reports of premature timing chain stretch — listen for rattle on cold start.
The Equinox is a reasonable budget SUV buy if you target 2021+ for the turbo engine or stick with the older 2.4L naturally aspirated version. Check oil consumption history on any 2018–2020 turbo model before buying.
Looking at a specific Equinox? Grade it before you buy.