Chevrolet Equinox III (2017 – 2024)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

The third-generation Chevrolet Equinox (based on General Motors' D2XX platform) marks a major break from its predecessors. More compact, nearly 180 kg lighter, and equipped with an entirely turbocharged engine lineup, it has established itself as one of the best-selling compact SUVs in North America. It received a facelift presented in 2020 but marketed for the 2022 model year due to the pandemic, bringing cosmetic tweaks (front fascia, LED headlights) and a new RS trim. Overall, this generation shines for its reliability, praised by J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, with a very extensive service network in North America.

✅ Strengths

⚠️ Weaknesses

🎯 Verdict

The third-generation Chevrolet Equinox is an extremely rational and safe choice on the used market. Although it is not the most luxurious or dynamic in its category, it compensates with remarkable mechanical reliability, particularly with the proven 1.5L Turbo engine. Data from J.D. Power and ADAC confirm its robustness over time. The number of recalls may seem high, but they are highly targeted and handled by a dense GM network. Buying advice: Favor a post-2019 1.5L Turbo model (to avoid the early teething problems of the 2018 models) with a clear maintenance history and confirmation that recalls (especially brakes and fuel pump) have been performed. The 2.0L Turbo is an excellent find for those who need to tow, while the 1.6L Diesel should be avoided due to its rarity and potential maintenance costs related to emissions control.

Common issues

Consommation excessive d'huile moteur (moteur 1.5L Turbo) High
🔧 60 000 – 150 000 km
💶 3 000 – 6 000 €
Vérifier l'historique d'entretien, le niveau d'huile régulièrement et l'absence de fumée bleue.
Dysfonctionnement de la transmission automatique (hésitations, passages de rapports brusques) Medium
🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km
💶 2 000 – 4 000 €
Tester la transmission à chaud, prêter attention aux bruits ou à des à-coups.
Défaillance du système de climatisation (compresseur, fuites) Medium
🔧 80 000 – 120 000 km
💶 600 – 1 200 €
S'assurer que l'AC souffle froid et sans bruit suspect lors de l'essai.
Problèmes de hayon électrique (blocage, non-ouverture/fermeture) Low
🔧 Variable
💶 400 – 800 €
Tester plusieurs fois l'ouverture et fermeture automatique du hayon.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change £70 – 130
Timing chain £1 100 – 2 200
Complete brakes £350 – 650
Estimated annual budget £650 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.