How many recalls does the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox have?

The 2016 Chevrolet Equinox currently has 2 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. **Engine Oil Consumption**: Be highly vigilant for signs of excessive oil consumption, a widespread and potentially catastrophic issue leading to engine failure or stalling. **Wiper System Failures**: Frequent reports of sudden windshield wiper failures, posing a significant safety hazard, especially in adverse weather. **Below Average Reliability**: The overall reliability is rated "Below Average," making this a high-risk used purchase without diligent inspection. **Fuel Economy**: The 3.6L V6 AWD model has a combined 18 MPG, which is relatively low for its class, leading to higher fuel costs. **Safety Rating**: Achieved a respectable 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox.

2016 Chevrolet Equinox Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Engine Oil Consumption: Be highly vigilant for signs of excessive oil consumption, a widespread and potentially catastrophic issue leading to engine failure or stalling.
Wiper System Failures: Frequent reports of sudden windshield wiper failures, posing a significant safety hazard, especially in adverse weather.
Below Average Reliability: The overall reliability is rated "Below Average," making this a high-risk used purchase without diligent inspection.
Fuel Economy: The 3.6L V6 AWD model has a combined 18 MPG, which is relatively low for its class, leading to higher fuel costs.

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Overview

2016 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2016 Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV offered with a 3.6L V6 engine and All-Wheel Drive, delivering 18 MPG combined. While it boasts a 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, its ownership experience is marred by significant mechanical concerns. The vehicle has 2 recalls, but more critically, 470 complaints, with a substantial portion related to engine issues and wiper failures. This model year faces a "Below Average" reliability verdict due to these persistent problems.

Critical Failure Risk

Engine Oil Consumption: Be highly vigilant for signs of excessive oil consumption, a widespread and potentially catastrophic issue leading to engine failure or stalling.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Analysis pending

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

470

Engine190

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

Watch-outs include high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers on a very tight budget willing to accept significant mechanical risk.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Anyone seeking a reliable, low-maintenance used SUV.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Chevrolet Equinox Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 18

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 190 reports

2. Visibility

Usage: 108 reports

First Service Interval

Unlock the full maintenance guide for the first service interval, the schedule after it, and repair-cost context.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

2 recall campaign details & remedy notes

470 owner complaints by system

Final buyer verdict: should you buy?

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FAQ

Is the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox is 7.8/10. Reliability score is 7.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 470.

How practical is the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox for daily use?

Practicality score is 6.1/10. Watch-outs include high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 892 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox is 6.4/10. Overall score is 6.4/10 (Mixed). Confidence 71%. Practicality 6.1/10.

What engine is in the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox?

EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

How many people fit in a 2016 Chevrolet Equinox?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox?

Top complaint category: engine (190 reports, 40.4% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox?

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Honda CR-V and 2016 Toyota RAV4.