What weaknesses does the Chevrolet Equinox GMT172 have?

The Chevrolet Equinox (Petrol, 182–301 PS) comes with 3 different engines: LAF (2010–2011, Stay Away!) und LEA (2012–2017, Be Careful) und LFX (2013–2017, Good Choice). Pay attention to the model year for the Equinox!

Vehicle Weaknesses

	Weakness	Cost
!	Steering sticking / increased effort NHTSA investigated 781,000 Equinox/Terrain 2010–2012 for sticking steering. GM replaced steering gear via service bulletin, no formal recall. Symptoms: Heavy steering, jerky steering inputs, EPS warning Ad steering gear Equinox 2010-2012	Medium

NHTSA Owner Complaints

Below Average

4,856 complaints · 2010–2017

Engine

2229 ⚠ 16

Wipers & Visibility

1003 ⚠ 3

Powertrain

650 ⚠ 9

Electrical

419 ⚠ 10

Other

384 ⚠ 9

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Engine (2229 complaints)

⚠ Wipers & Visibility (1003 complaints)

⚠ Powertrain (650 complaints)

Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-04

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 10 weaknesses have been documented for the Chevrolet Equinox GMT172 (2010–2017) — 4 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. One problem engine: LAF (2.4L Ecotec I4). Typical issues affect Steering, Gearbox, Electronics, HVAC. Considered reliable: LFX (3.6L V6 LFX).

Equinox (LAF, 2010–2011) — Stay Away!: Excessive oil consumption — defective piston rings (2.4L Ecotec), Timing chain stretch (2.4L Ecotec), Water pump and thermostat housing leaks (2.4L). Power: 182 PS.

What to watch out for with the Chevrolet Equinox? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Chevrolet Equinox GMT172 have? +

The Chevrolet Equinox GMT172 has 4 known engine weaknesses and 6 vehicle weaknesses.

What should I look for when buying a used Chevrolet Equinox GMT172? +

faq.watch_a_avoid faq.watch_a_rec

Which engine is recommended? +

Good choice: LFX (3.6L V6 LFX). The most reliable engine is the LFX (3.6L V6 LFX) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the LFX (3.6L V6 LFX). Problem engine: LAF (2.4L Ecotec I4) — stay away!

Which Chevrolet Equinox GMT172 engine is the most reliable? +

The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Chevrolet Equinox GMT172. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 1 known weaknesses to be aware of.

Which Chevrolet Equinox GMT172 engine is the most fun? +

The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Chevrolet Equinox GMT172 — rated: "Decent". {description} The 3.6L LFX actually moves (301 hp) and lasts far longer than the 2.4L — if you run 5,000-mile synthetic oil changes instead of trusting the oil life monitor. Thirsty, the 6T70 shifts like it's from 2008, and the interior is plastic wasteland. No fun, but at least no drama.

Is the Chevrolet Equinox GMT172 worth buying used? +

The Chevrolet Equinox GMT172 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.

What horsepower variants are available for the Chevrolet Equinox GMT172? +

The Chevrolet Equinox GMT172 is available with engine variants from 185 to 328 hp. Petrol: LAF (2.4L Ecotec I4), LEA (2.4L Ecotec Flex I4), LFX (3.6L V6 LFX).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee