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2nd Gen · SUV

2016 Chevrolet Equinox

Common problems & what to know before you buy

Before you message the seller, know the documented failure patterns, repair cost exposure, and risk level for the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox.

Common problems

What to watch for on the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox

critical

2.4L Excessive Oil Consumption

The 2.4L Ecotec (2010-2013) can consume 1 quart every 1,000-2,000 miles. GM issued a technical bulletin. Piston ring and PCV system revisions in 2014+ improved this. Check oil level every fuel fill-up.

Typical repair cost
$3,000-5,000
critical

Timing Chain Failure (2.4L)

The 2.4L can develop timing chain stretch, causing a check engine light, rough idle, and potential engine damage. Engine rattling on startup is a warning sign.

Typical repair cost
$1,500-2,500

2 more known problems on the 2016 Equinox

Your guide shows all of them and which apply to the exact car, and what to ask the seller.

Market pricing

2016 Chevrolet Equinox price ranges

2010-2012 LS/LT (2.4L)$6,000-9,000
2013-2015 LS/LT (refresh)$9,000-13,000
2016-2017 LT/LTZ$12,000-16,000
V6 models (any year)+$2,000-4,000

The 3.6L V6 is the most reliable engine in this generation. Avoid 2.4L models from 2010-2013 unless they have documented oil consumption fixes. The Equinox is a budget-friendly choice but budget for potential repairs.

Safety record

Recalls on the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox

Recall·16V449000

Equipment: labels

The certification labels may have incorrect tire/rim size and cold tire pressure information.

Source: NHTSA

Owner complaints

What 399 owners reported

Engine155
Visibility/wiper105
Power train26
Electrical system20

Source: NHTSA

Specifications

2016 Chevrolet Equinox at a glance

Trims
LSLTPremier
Engine
2.4L 4-Cylinder, 3.6L 6-Cylinder
Transmission
Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain
FWD, AWD
Fuel
Gasoline
Body style
SUV
2nd Gen guide

Chevrolet Equinox (2nd Gen) Buyer's Guide

Engine and Transmission Issues

The 2nd-gen Equinox (2010-2017) was a sales success for Chevrolet, offering three engine options, a spacious interior, and strong value on the used market. But reliability is below average for the compact SUV segment.

Powertrain: The 2.4L Ecotec LAF/LUK four-cylinder (182 hp) with 6-speed automatic is the volume engine. The 3.0L V6 LF1 (264 hp, 2010-2011) and 3.6L V6 LFX (301 hp, 2013-2017) offer more power. The 2013 refresh brought the 3.6L V6 and updated styling. The 2.4L is the most common but has the most issues. The 3.6L V6 is more reliable.

What to look for: The 2.4L has excessive oil consumption and timing chain issues — the biggest concerns. The 6-speed automatic (6T40/6T45) can develop torque converter shudder. The V6 models are more reliable but less fuel-efficient. Check for water leaks into the rear cargo area.

Generation

About the 2nd Gen

The second-generation Chevrolet Equinox launched for the 2010 model year and ran through 2017, marking a significant departure from the boxier first-generation design with a more sculpted, car-like profile and a greatly improved interior. This 2010-2017 Chevrolet Equinox was offered exclusively as a five-passenger SUV, competing in the compact crossover segment. Powertrain choices began with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, later joined by a 3.0-liter V6 for the first two years, which was replaced by a 3.6-liter V6 from 2013 onward. All models used a six-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available across the lineup.

Trim levels evolved over the run, starting with LS, LT, and LTZ, with the Premier trim introduced later as the top-tier option. The cabin was notably quieter and more spacious than the previous generation, with a sliding rear seat that improved cargo flexibility. While the 2.4-liter engine provided adequate fuel economy, it developed a reputation for excessive oil consumption in some model years, a factor current used buyers should research. The 3.6-liter V6 offered stronger performance but lower fuel economy. Overall, the second-generation Equinox serves as a practical, comfortable used choice for families or commuters seeking a well-rounded crossover with a generally good reliability record, though powertrain history should be verified before purchase.

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Other Chevrolet Equinox years

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Should I buy a 2nd-gen Equinox in 2025?

Only if you get a great deal ($6,000-10,000) and understand the risks. The 2.4L oil consumption and timing chain issues are real. The V6 is much more reliable but uses more fuel.

Which Equinox engine is most reliable?

The 3.6L V6 (2013-2017) is significantly more reliable than the 2.4L. If you can find a V6 Equinox at a reasonable price, buy it. The fuel economy penalty (20 vs 26 MPG combined) is the trade-off.

Squeezed is a buyer guide based on public data and industry patterns, not a mechanical inspection. Always get a professional pre-purchase inspection before you buy.