Last updated: 2026-04-20

2019 Chevrolet Equinox Reliability Report
The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox scores 71/100 ("Good"). With 4 recalls and 273 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
4
Complaints
273
Complaint Rate
7.9per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$537
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,150–$2,900
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- SERVICE BRAKES (56)
- ENGINE (45)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (34)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is year 2 of the Third generation (2018).
- Redesigned for the 2018 model year.
- A refresh arrives in 2022.
- 3rd generation Equinox (US).
What this means for buyers
Year 2 is typically a safer pick than the first model year — early issues are more likely to be identified, but the platform is still new.
If you're comparing prices, check 2018 (redesign year) vs 2019+ pricing and recalls.
2018: Third generation (2018) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2019: This Model Year
2019 is year 2 of the Third generation (2018).
2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox?
At 71/100, the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2019 is year 2 of the Third generation (2018).
Owners log 273 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to engine (45). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox, which scored 1 points lower. See also the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- −Moderate recall count
- −SERVICE BRAKES: Vacuum pump failures (56 complaints)
- −ENGINE issues reported (45 complaints)
Compare 2019 Chevrolet Equinox With

2019 GMC Terrain
Reliability: 68/100

2019 Volkswagen Tiguan
Reliability: 65/100

2019 Hyundai Tucson
Reliability: 68/100

2019 KIA Sportage
Reliability: 74/100

2019 Ford Escape
Reliability: 69/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 4 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- SERVICE BRAKES (56)
- ENGINE (45)
Recall Overview
4
recalls on record
A moderate 4 recalls are on file for the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
7.9
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 22
Safety Incidents
18
Crashes
7
Fires
5
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 Chevrolet Equinox Recall Details
4 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
POWER TRAIN
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.
Consequence
Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the start-stop transmission accumulator and replace it if any bolts are missing, free of charge. The recall began December 15, 2020. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N202313440.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Chevrolet Equinox all-wheel drive vehicles. The fuel tanks may have been manufactured with an improperly sealed seam, possibly allowing fuel to leak along the seam near the fuel inlet.
Consequence
A fuel leak in the presence of the ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. The recall began October 24, 2019. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-586-596-1733. GM's number for this recall is N192271870.
SEATS
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles. The rear-right seat may have insufficient welds on the head-restraint bracket.
Consequence
In the event of a crash, the insufficient welds may result in an increased risk of injury for an occupant seated in the rear-right position.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear-right seatback frame, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N192209550.
Buying a used 2019 Chevrolet Equinox? Check its history first
Every 2019 Chevrolet Equinox has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2019 Chevrolet Equinox NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 16.4%
Safety Technologies
Chevrolet EquinoxRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$537
vs $521 avg for compact SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.3
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
18%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
24–32 MPG
Running cost: $2,700–$3,450/yr
Fuel + repair
22–28 city / 28–39 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equinox FWD 1.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 26 | 32 | 28 | $2,150 |
| Equinox AWD 1.5L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 25 | 30 | 27 | $2,200 |
| Equinox AWD 1.6L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 28 | 38 | 32 | $2,550 |
| Equinox FWD 1.6L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 28 | 39 | 32 | $2,550 |
| Equinox FWD 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 22 | 29 | 25 | $2,750 |
| Equinox AWD 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 22 | 28 | 24 | $2,900 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox.
Inspect brake vacuum pump for failure signs
Check for Charge Air Cooler (CAC) hose disconnection
Test for fuel odors inside the cabin
Verify fuel gauge accuracy
Check for proper turbocharger function
Ensure ECM and electrical systems are functioning correctly
Look for any visible fuel leaks under the vehicle
Test the vehicle's response to acceleration from a stop
2019 Chevrolet Equinox Common Problems by Component
273 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
SERVICE BRAKES
56 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox frequently report issues with the vehicle's braking system, particularly related to vacuum pump failures. Common symptoms include a hard or unresponsive brake pedal, reduced braking ability, and the "Service Brake Assist" warning light activating. These problems often occur around 50,000 to 75,000 miles, according to multiple reports. Safety implications are significant, with some complaints involving crashes and one mentioning a fire, highlighting potential risks of loss of control. Used car buyers should be aware of these recurring issues and the associated safety risks when considering this model.
ENGINE
45 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox frequently report issues related to engine power reduction, often triggered by the disconnection of the Charge Air Cooler (CAC) hose or turbo-related failures. Common symptoms include the vehicle entering "limp mode," reduced power, and illuminated check engine lights, with some owners noting repeated instances of the P0299 code. These issues typically manifest around 6,000 to 80,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as multiple complaints describe sudden power loss in traffic, posing risks of accidents, and two reports mention fires. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues, especially if considering a vehicle within this mileage range.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
34 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly involving the infotainment system, which may randomly turn off or restart, affecting features like GPS and radio. Complaints also describe problems with the vehicle stalling or shutting off unexpectedly while driving, sometimes without warning, which poses a safety risk. Several reports indicate issues with the electronic control module (ECM), leading to unintended braking and power loss, with some incidents occurring around 50,000 miles. Additionally, there are mentions of electrical component failures such as the tire pressure monitoring system and door lock actuators. Safety implications include potential crashes due to sudden loss of vehicle control, and one report involves a fire. Buyers should be aware of these recurring issues and the potential costs associated with repairs.
POWER TRAIN (33 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
33 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox frequently report power train issues, with common symptoms including engine stalling, failure to respond to the gas pedal, and transmission malfunctions. Complaints often describe incidents where the vehicle hesitates or fails to accelerate, sometimes leading to near rear-end collisions, and instances where the vehicle enters "limp mode" with reduced engine power. Transmission-related problems, such as faulty transmission control modules and defective transmission coolers, are noted, often occurring around 60,000 to 76,000 miles. Safety implications include vehicles becoming inoperative in traffic, posing risks to drivers and others. Additionally, some owners mention a "shift to park" issue, where the vehicle does not recognize being in park, preventing shutdown and causing battery drain, which is reportedly common across several GM models from the same period.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (27 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
27 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several recurring issues with the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox, notably involving transmission and braking systems. Complaints frequently mention transmission slipping, delayed starts, and stalling, with some owners needing costly transmission replacements around 150,000 miles. Brake-related issues include failure to depress the brake pedal and the service brake assist light activating, linked to a failed brake vacuum pump. Additionally, multiple owners describe a strong chemical odor from the HVAC system that affects their ability to drive safely. Safety implications include one reported crash and instances of vehicles unexpectedly losing power or shutting down, often at higher mileages. These patterns suggest potential concerns for used car buyers regarding mechanical reliability and safety.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (18 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
18 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox frequently report issues related to fuel system leaks and fuel pump failures. Complaints commonly describe fuel leaks from the tank, especially noticeable when parked or in cold weather, and a persistent fuel odor inside the cabin. Several owners mention problems with the high-pressure fuel pump, including failure to accelerate and unexpected engine shutdowns, typically occurring under 100,000 miles. Some reports also highlight issues with the fuel gauge not accurately displaying fuel levels, leading to potential risks of running out of fuel unexpectedly. These problems pose safety risks such as potential fire hazards and sudden loss of power while driving.
STEERING (9 complaints)
STEERING
9 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox frequently report issues with the steering system, with symptoms including steering wheel stickiness at highway speeds and unexpected swerving or jerking. These issues are noted at various mileages, with one owner specifically mentioning persistence from 21,600 miles to 73,000 miles. Some complaints describe the steering wheel resisting turns after driving straight for extended periods, while others mention violent swerving that requires corrective effort to maintain lane position. Safety implications are evident, with one reported crash occurring due to unintended acceleration, and multiple near-misses due to steering difficulties. Potential buyers should be aware of these steering issues, which may pose a risk under certain driving conditions.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (9 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
9 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox frequently report issues with vehicle speed control, particularly involving sudden deceleration and loss of acceleration. Common symptoms include the vehicle unexpectedly slowing down to around 40 MPH from highway speeds, often accompanied by a power reduction message and check engine light activation. These issues are reported at varying mileages, with some incidents occurring as early as 4,785 miles. One complaint involves unintended acceleration resulting in a crash while parking. The safety implications are significant, as multiple reports describe near-misses with other vehicles due to sudden speed changes, and one incident resulted in a collision. Potential buyers should be aware of these reported issues when considering this model.
AIR BAGS (8 complaints)
AIR BAGS
8 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox frequently report issues with airbag deployment, particularly during crashes. Complaints often describe scenarios where airbags fail to deploy after significant impacts, including front-end collisions and rollovers, with some reports mentioning injuries as a result. Notably, one complaint involves a fire after side airbag deployment. These incidents typically occur at mileages ranging from 75,000 to 99,500 miles. Safety implications are significant, with multiple reports of crashes, injuries, and one fire incident, making it important for potential buyers to consider these factors when evaluating this vehicle.
FUEL SYSTEM (5 complaints)
FUEL SYSTEM
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox frequently report issues related to the fuel system, with symptoms including stalling while driving, fuel odors, and visible fuel leaks. Some complaints describe a failure to start, often accompanied by an illuminated check engine light. Notably, one owner reports a fire originating from the fuel tank while driving at highway speeds, which was extinguished by emergency services. The reported issues typically occur at mileages ranging from approximately 46,000 to 229,000 miles. These patterns suggest potential safety implications, particularly concerning the risk of fire and vehicle stalling.
When Do 2019 Chevrolet Equinox Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Chevrolet Equinox Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Chevrolet Equinox Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Chevrolet Equinox year is 2024 with a reliability score of 76/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2023 (76/100) and 2021 (74/100).
Chevrolet Equinox Years to Avoid
No Chevrolet Equinox years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Chevrolet Equinox maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Chevrolet Equinox Reliability Score Trend
Chevrolet Equinox reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 72/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 69/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 72/100 | Good |
Chevrolet Equinox Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox?
How many recalls does the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox have?
Is the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Chevrolet Equinox.
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