2017 Chevrolet Equinox Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
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.
2017 Chevrolet Equinox
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.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 182–301HP
- Torque
- 172–272 lb–ftLB-FT
Reliability
Practicality
Watch-outs include high fuel consumption.
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.
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 reportedUsage: 161 reports
2. Powertrain
Usage: 30 reports
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
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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).