What's Wrong with the 1st Generation (2005–2009) Equinox?

Equinox owners have made 1,019 complaints about the 2005–2009 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 74th out of 80 Chevrolet generations in overall reliability, with real hvac and engine concerns.

Compare With Other Equinox Generations

Common 2005-2009 Chevrolet Equinox Problems

Some of the worst issues 1st generation Equinox owners have to deal with.

  1. Delayed Acceleration Problems

    Many Chevrolet generations suffer from delayed acceleration due to a slow response in the drive-by-wire electronic throttle system. The throttle lag can be frustrating at best, but can also leave drivers in dangerous situations. Unfortunate…

    Continue reading article "Delayed Acceleration Problems" A snail on the road

  3. Takata Recalls

    A large number of Chevy vehicles have been recalled because they contain dangerous airbag inflators made by Takata. The shrapnel-hurling inflators have been recalled in over 37 million vehicles (and counting).

    Continue reading article "Takata Recalls" A crash test dummy about to hit an airbag with the Takata logo superimposed on top.

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

1st Generation (2005–2009) Equinox Key Numbers

  1. 5 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 1,019 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 74th in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 80 eligible generations.

Recent 1st Generation (2005–2009) Equinox News

There's a lot of news out there, but not all of it matters. We try to boil down it to the most important bits about things that actually help you with your car problem. Interested in getting these stories in an email? Signup for free email alerts over at CarComplaints.com.

  1. Equinox owners, put down those quarts of oil. General Motors' Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 15285C) could be the answer you've been looking for regarding excessive oil consumption.

    Chevy and GMC dealers were told in previous technical service bulletins to install updated engine control module calibration and perform an oil consumption test. This time dealers are told to diagnose the problem and replace the pistons.

    GM says repairs will be made for free (based on warranty coverage) and that the warranty will be extended to 7.5 years or 120,000 miles, whichever comes first.

    keep reading article "Oil Consumption TSB Might Help Equinox Owners"