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2017 Chevrolet Equinox Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller
2017 Chevrolet Equinox Report

Overall Score

6.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2017 Equinox has a 'Below Average' reliability verdict, largely due to chronic engine failures from oil consumption and PCV system defects.
  • Be wary of potential costly repairs related to the engine, including rear main seal failures and timing chain issues.
  • Fuel economy is rated at 18 MPG combined, which is modest for its class, potentially leading to higher running costs.
  • Despite 0 recalls, there are 337 complaints and 533 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), indicating numerous known issues that did not reach recall status.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2017 Chevrolet Equinox, a compact SUV, offered a practical package with a choice of a 4-cylinder or a more powerful V6 engine, and available All-Wheel Drive. With an original MSRP range of $23,100 - $31,790, it aimed for value and versatility. However, its ownership experience is marred by significant reliability concerns, particularly with the engine, leading to a 'Below Average' reliability verdict. While it achieved a respectable 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, the high volume of complaints, especially regarding engine and powertrain issues, suggests potential long-term ownership challenges.

Critical Failure Risk

Many 2017 Equinox owners report significant engine oil consumption, often requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can lead to low oil levels, causing premature wear on internal engine components, and potentially leading to catastrophic engine failure if not monitored. This issue is a major contributor to the 161 engine complaints.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

337
Engine161
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
182–301HP
Torque
172–272 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
18
MPG
City
16
MPG
Highway
23
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.2/ 10

Practicality

6.1/ 10

Watch-outs include high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers seeking an affordable compact SUV who are prepared for significant potential repair costs and proactive maintenance.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a highly reliable, low-maintenance used vehicle.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Chevrolet Equinox Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
182-301 hp
Torque
172-272 lb-ft
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
MSRP Range
$23,100 - $31,790
EPA Combined MPG
18

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 161 reports

2. Powertrain

Usage: 30 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Dexos-approved 5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Dexos-approved Synthetic Oil, ACDelco PF48E Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Multi-Point Inspection (including fluid levels, belts, hoses, brakes, suspension)

Est. shop cost: $80 - $120

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox is 6.2/10. Reliability score is 6.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 337.

How practical is the 2017 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 846 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox is 6.0/10. Overall score is 6.0/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.1/10. Practicality 6.1/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Chevrolet Equinox?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Dexos-approved 5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Dexos-approved Synthetic Oil, ACDelco PF48E Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Multi-Point Inspection (including fluid levels, belts, hoses, brakes, suspension) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (Oil Consumption/PCV/Rear Main Seal) (typical at 40,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $4,000+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox?▾

MSRP range is $23,100 - $31,790.

What engine is in the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox?▾

Engine specs list Inline-4 / V6 • 6 • 3.6. Output is 182-301 hp • 172-272 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox?▾

EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox?▾

8 standard and 3 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox, fuel economy range is 20-28 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2017 Chevrolet Equinox?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 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 2017 Chevrolet Equinox?▾

Top complaint category: engine (161 reports, 47.8% of complaints).

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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