Are you in the market for a small crossover? At the moment, there are plenty of options in this segment. That accounts for both new and used crossovers, and probably the Chevy Equinox has become one of your picks. Do you want to learn more about the 2015 Chevy Equinox Problems? Then buckle up, because we have a lot to share with you.
- Chevy Equinox Overview
- Chevy Equinox Specs & Features
- Chevy Equinox Common Problems
- Should You Buy One?
- Final Conclusion
The Chevy Equinox is one of the most popular crossovers on the market right now. The Equinox is basically one of the first choices for many people who want to get themselves a small crossover.
Crossovers are a trend right now, and they are gaining more and more traction in the US and globally. This is because they offer the best of both worlds. Increased ride height gives you a lot of clearance on the road and the comfort of a car. A taller ride height also means more safety for you and your passengers as well. And also, the performance is something that we are going to cover.
In this article, we are going to cover everything you need to know when it comes to Chevy Equinox. We are going to learn more about the model. Most especially, the 2015 model year and all the trims and engines that were available. Then, we are going to learn about the 2015 Chevy Equinox problems, and what you should pay attention to the most when getting one. Lastly, we are going to discuss if you should get the 2015 Chevy Equinox or if you shouldn’t consider it. So, let’s dive into it.
Chevy Equinox
The Equinox is a compact crossover made by Chevrolet and has been in production since 2004. During its long life, the name Equinox was included in three generations of cars. But to simplify it for you, we are going to stick with the second generation of the Equinox, since we are discussing the 2015 Chevy Equinox problems in this article.
The second generation made its debut back in 2010 and it was built until 2017. It was based on the GM Theta platform that was shared among many of GM’s brands including GMC, Cadillac, Saab, Pontiac, Opel, and even Suzuki. So, you can say that most of the mechanicals are shared among these manufacturers and if you are looking for parts for your Chevy, a Cadillac in the junkyard may have the same part as your Equinox. But to be sure, you should look at the part number.
This car was assembled in two different plants. One was in Ontario, Canada, and the other plant was in Spring Hill, Tennessee. You should take note that the Equinox was produced in Tennessee between May 2013 and 2015. So, everything before that and after that is a Canadian Equinox.
This model of the Equinox was ranked as the fifth-best and most affordable crossovers in 2015. This tells a lot about the Equinox and its popularity among car buyers.
Yeah, but what about the 2015 Chevy Equinox problems? Well, we are going to cover the problems after we discuss the specs. That’s because everyone should know the specs of the Equinox if they plan to purchase this vehicle as a second-hand car.
Chevy Equinox Specs
The Equinox, as we mentioned, is a small crossover intended for people who want a reliable grocery-getter. The Equinox was built with this idea in mind to be practical and really affordable.
The wheelbase of the Equinox is 112.4 inches and the overall length is 187.8 inches. Not the smallest, but not a big car overall. It is far more compact than most of the full-sized crossovers or SUVs offered in the US, and it is a good option if you live with tight parking spaces.
Four different engine options were available at the time. There were the 2.4L Ecotec engines. The two engines were basically the same, with the only difference being that one of them was running on pump gas and the other on E85 fuel (once you figure out how to fill up gas). These engines produced 182 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque.
Then, there were two more powerful engines. One was a 3.0L V6 that made 264 hp and 222 lb-ft of torque. The other was a 3.6L V6 and made 301 hp and 272 lb-ft of torque.
The EPA ratings for the base 2.4L engines was around 22 mpg although some automotive journalists managed to squeeze even 28 mpg out of the Equinox.
All the engines were equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Since it’s a 2015 model, it didn’t include much of the safety equipment that is a standard right now. That means no lane departure warning and forward collision warning in the base models. These options were only included in the Power convenience package.
But what about the 2015 Chevy Equinox problems. Well, that’s what we are going to cover in the next chapter.
2015 Chevy Equinox Problems
Although the Equinox was a good-selling car, it also had a fair share of issues. Not every owner was impressed by the Equinox. We understand that problems happen on a daily basis and not everyone is going to be satisfied with their product. That’s why we are going to talk about the most common issues. This means that these issues happen more often than other issues on the Equinox.
There are thousands of reviews online on the Equinox and we picked the most common problems for you to help you and save you time. You don’t want to look all day online and read thousands of comments. That’s why we wrote this 2015 Chevy Equinox problems article to make your life easier. So, let’s dive into the 2015 Chevy Equinox problems.
Engine Problems
The more powerful V6 engines were fairly good in terms of performance and also durability. The 2.4L, on the other hand, was mostly used in the basic trim level cars and had some issues that you should be aware of. These problems are not something serious and it doesn’t mean that your engine is going to have some of these issues.
But you should be aware that they exist and if you are on the market for a 2015 Chevy Equinox, you should take a look at them first before you buy. This problem list refers to both gas and E85 variants.
2015 Chevy Equinox Problems #1: Timing Chain Problems
The 2.4L engine is a timing chain-driven engine. This means that the engine has a timing chain inside compared to other vehicles that have a timing belt which is located on the outside of the vehicle. That’s why the timing chain job is extremely expensive. In most cases, the engine needs to come out for the timing chain to be removed. So, it’s worth noting that you need to look for a car that has this job already done. If not, you are going to pay more than $1,000 to get it fixed.
The problem that usually occurs with this timing chain is not because of the chain. Instead, it’s because of the timing guides. The guides are the ones that hold tension on the chain. And when these guides fail there is no tension. Then, the chain can slip and cause your valves to collide with the pistons, and damage to the valves is unavoidable.
These problematic valve guides are made out of plastic. Plastic, over time, becomes brittle and cracks. That’s why the timing chain job should be done every 100,000 miles if you want to avoid damage to be done to the engine.
The most frequent symptoms of bad chain guides are engine rattles, poor engine work, and misfires. You can also get a warning light on the dash that you need to get your engine checked.
2015 Chevy Equinox Problems #2: Increased Oil Consumption
One of the 2015 Chevy Equinox problems is the increased oil consumption. This problem, along with the timing chain issue, is one of the most prevalent problems around.
The increased oil consumption is caused by bad piston rings. The 2.4L piston rings are very prone to leaking. To solve this problem, the only way is to replace the O-rings with new ones. This will guarantee that the heavy oil consumption is going to stop, and problems will be solved. But the downside of this is that it costs a lot of money to be solved.
This is because the whole engine needs to come out and everything needs to be carefully inspected by mechanics. Also, the bearings have to be changed along with the O-rings, and this is almost like a rebuild. It can cost around $2,000 to get everything sorted.
If you are doing this work on your engine, it is a good idea to get the timing chain replaced as well. This will guarantee the longevity of your engine and you will not have any issues in the next 150,000 miles or so.
2015 Chevy Equinox Problems #3: Carbon Buildup In The Engine
The carbon buildup in the engine is a direct consequence of the oil-burning issue. The oil that seeps past the O-rings is burning inside of the cylinder. This oil, when burned, starts to create black sludge on the top of the piston and exhaust ports of the head.
This can compromise your engine head and valves. Since the carbon buildup is too much, the valve will not seal properly, and there will be a loss of compression and misfires. Other symptoms can include rough idle and engine hesitation.
This carbon buildup will ruin your valves completely if not treated on time. In the worst-case scenario, you will be required to do machining work on your head to return the head to proper functioning order.
This is going to cost more than $1,000 to do, and you will have to take the head to a professional shop that has experience with engine rebuilds.
But if you want to save your head and valves on time, you can visit a carbon cleaning company. They will remove the intake manifold and pour a solution into the exhaust ports and this solution will dissolve the carbon and return them to factory spec. This job usually costs around $400 which is not a lofty price considering the high rebuild prices.
2015 Chevy Equinox Problems #4: Oil Leaks
The 2.4 also knows to develop some oil leaks. These oil leaks come from the oil pan gasket, which is not that durable. It can break at high temperatures and over many miles of driving.
Oil pan gaskets are fairly cheap and you can get one for less than $30. This job is also DIY friendly, and to perform it, you are going to need some jack stands and also you need to secure your vehicle in the air.
Then, drain the oil, and just unbolt the bolts that are holding the oil pan. Next, remove the pan and scrape the remaining gasket material. Scraping the material and thoroughly cleaning the pan will guarantee that you did a good job. Now, all you need to do is to place the gasket in the same fashion and torque the bolts to spec from the inside out. Pour fresh oil, add in a new oil filter, and you are good to go.
I recommend this job as a DIY job because at a shop you will probably be charged more than $300 to get this work done. And considering the relative easiness of the job, everyone can do it.
2015 Chevy Equinox Problems #5: Engine Overheating
One common problem that many 2015 Chevy Equinox owners have faced is engine overheating. Overheating can result from a variety of reasons, but the primary culprits include a malfunctioning thermostat, a leaking water pump, or a compromised radiator.
Overheating can lead to serious engine damage, so it’s essential to catch it early. If you notice your temperature gauge reading higher than usual, or if there’s steam coming from under the hood, pull over immediately. Continued driving can warp engine components, leading to even more expensive repairs.
The solution? Regularly check your coolant levels and make sure there are no visible leaks. If you suspect a thermostat or water pump issue, have them replaced as soon as possible. Remember, preventing overheating is much cheaper than repairing a damaged engine. To find out more, check out our guide on what does a water pump do in a car.
2015 Chevy Equinox Problems #6: Throttle Body Failures
The throttle body is a vital component that controls the amount of air entering the engine. Some owners have reported failures with the throttle body, leading to reduced engine performance, stalling, or the vehicle entering ‘limp mode’.
Often, the first sign of a throttle body issue is erratic acceleration or an unresponsive gas pedal. Keeping your throttle body clean and periodically inspecting it for wear can help prevent these issues. A faulty throttle body can often be replaced for a few hundred dollars, but it’s essential to address the issue promptly to avoid further complications.
2015 Chevy Equinox Problems #7: Faulty Fuel Injectors
Fuel injectors play a critical role in delivering fuel to the engine. A malfunctioning injector can lead to a range of problems, from reduced fuel efficiency to engine misfires. The 2015 Chevy Equinox is no stranger to these issues.
If your vehicle experiences rough idling, decreased power, or reduced gas mileage, faulty fuel injectors could be to blame. Unfortunately, replacing them isn’t cheap, but driving with compromised injectors can lead to more significant problems down the road.
To prevent injector issues, always use the recommended fuel type for your vehicle. Additionally, consider using a fuel system cleaner occasionally to remove deposits and maintain optimal injector performance.
2015 Chevy Equinox Problems #8: Exhaust System Rattles
Several 2015 Chevy Equinox owners have reported rattling noises coming from their exhaust systems. This noise often results from loose heat shields, broken hangers, or misaligned exhaust components.
While a rattling exhaust might seem like a minor annoyance, it can indicate more severe underlying issues. A misaligned exhaust can lead to leaks, which can reduce your vehicle’s performance and release harmful emissions. So, if you hear any unusual noises, it’s best to have your exhaust system inspected and adjusted by a professional.
In conclusion, while the 2015 Chevy Equinox offers numerous benefits to its owners, being informed of its common engine-related issues is essential. By being proactive and addressing problems early, you can extend the life of your vehicle and enjoy a smoother driving experience. Always consider regular maintenance and checks to keep your Equinox in top shape.
Transmission Problems
The 2015 Chevy Equinox problems, in terms of transmissions, are not that big. As we said, the Equinox from the second generation has only one transmission and that is a 6-speed automatic.
There were a number of owners that reported jerking, shuddering, and slipping. But these instances were very rare. The transmissions in this vehicle are mostly bulletproof if properly maintained.
If you want to make sure that your transmission is going to last and will not jerk or shudder or slip gears, you have to maintain it properly.
And by this, I mean replacing the fluid regularly every 50,000 miles or less in some instances. The biggest indicator to see when you need a transmission flush is by inspecting the fluid on your car. Take a look at the color and see if there are any metal particles. If there are, then you need to replace the fluid.
Also, when you buy a vehicle and you test drive it, make sure that it runs well and shifts smoothly. If it doesn’t shift well, this should be a red flag, and you should stay away from it. Because if the vehicle does not shift well, this transmission is probably done for and will need either a rebuild, which is expensive, or a new transmission which is even more pricey and can cost around $3,000.
That’s why you should try to get an Equinox that has a perfectly working and reliable transmission and not pay a fortune to fix it.
Ignition System Problems
Some of the owners have reported issues with the ignition components of the Chevy Equinox. The reports were connected to the coils and the throttle body.
There were some reports on the Chevy Equinox for coil failure-related issues on higher mileage vehicles. Coils can fail and make the car misfire or cause other ignition or running issues. When a coil has failed, you are going to see a check engine light on the dash and you have to take the car to a mechanic, or scan the vehicle for error codes using an OBD2 scanner tool.
You can find this tool for a very cheap price online. You just plug the scanner into an OBD2 port and scan the car for codes. Then, you have to look online for these codes and learn more about them. Or, if you suspect that the coil has failed, you can swap the coils and see if you are getting any new errors. If the error from that cylinder has cleared, then you have to replace that specific coil.
Another problem that appeared on some cars was the throttle body flap didn’t open fully. This is a frequent problem for many vehicles. But, you can solve it by simply removing the throttle body and giving it a good clean. Spray some brake clean inside and wipe it off really well. Make sure that all the gunk that is inside has been removed. After you finish all this work, then you are good to go. Your throttle body should be working as well as new.
Interior Problems
2015 Chevy Equinox problems also include some interior issues. People reported unusual wear and tear on the interior panels. Even though it is understandable to have wear and tear depending on the person who owned the vehicle. That’s because not everyone cares a lot about the interior and the condition of it. In these situations, the wear and tear are much more significant compared to the usual rate of wear.
Also, some owners have reported problems with the radio, as well as the backup camera. While others reported issues with the infotainment system. However, these problems were resolved by Chevy’s technicians at the local dealership.
Bodywork Problems
Paint flaking was reported by some of the owners. This is most frequent on vehicles that are exposed to the elements during their lifetime.
Also, there was some rust bubbling here and there on cars that were driven on the East Coast. Humid and salty environments can destroy almost every vehicle. So, if you are buying a car from the east, check the underbody and see if there are some major rust issues. If there are some rust problems, stay away from that car.
Problem With The Windows
Some of the owners also reported a problem with their windows. The window regulators simply started to give up and stop working. In these situations, your window may stay open and you may end up with a flooded car. That’s why is a good idea to park your car where is safe if your window doesn’t work.
The main culprit that caused these issues is the failed window regulator. The window regulator and motor are one package, and they need to be replaced for the window to be working again. A new regulator can cost you around $150. This is also a DIY-friendly job and you can do it by yourself in your garage without any issues.
Or, if you like you can take your car to a shop. They will charge you more money but you will save some time.
Is The 2015 Chevy Equinox A Good Car
Since we have covered the 2015 Chevy Equinox problems, now it’s time to decide if it’s a good idea to buy the Equinox or not.
In my opinion, you should buy the Equinox. It is a good and reliable everyday, do-it-all vehicle. But when getting one, you should pay attention and learn more about the car and its service history.
This is important because you are after a properly serviced vehicle and not a basket case. Also, make sure that the timing chain job is done if you don’t want to pay money to get this work done. Because it can cost a lot to fix.
Also, it is a good idea to get one of the V6 engines instead of the 2.4. Since they are bigger engines, they are less worked and strained compared to the 2.4 engine, and you are going to see more life in them than in the 2.4. That’s not to forget the better driving experience since these engines have a lot more power than the 2.4.
Chevy Equinox Years To Avoid
The Chevrolet Equinox is a popular compact SUV that has been on the market since 2005. While the Equinox has proven to be a reliable and practical vehicle, there have been a few model years that have experienced more problems than others. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top Chevy Equinox model years to avoid.
2010 Chevy Equinox
The 2010 Chevy Equinox is one of the model years that you may want to avoid. This model year has had a higher number of reported issues with the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. Some of the most common complaints from 2010 Equinox owners include engine failure, transmission failure, and electrical problems such as dashboard lights and power windows not working properly.
2013 Chevy Equinox
Another model year that has had its fair share of problems is the 2013 Chevy Equinox. Some of the most common issues with this model year include problems with the engine, transmission, and suspension. Many 2013 Equinox owners have reported issues with the engine stalling or not starting, transmission failure, and suspension problems such as clunking noises when driving over bumps.
2018 Chevy Equinox
While the 2018 Chevy Equinox is a newer model year, it has also had its share of problems. One of the most common issues with the 2018 Equinox is with the transmission. Many owners have reported transmission failure, which can result in the vehicle being unable to shift into gear or stalling while driving. Additionally, some 2018 Equinox owners have reported problems with the engine, electrical system, and fuel system.
Problems With Chevy Equinox
The 2015 Chevy Equinox is a mid-generation refresh of the popular compact SUV. While this model year is generally considered to be reliable, there are a few common problems that owners may experience. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most common 2015 Chevy Equinox problems and solutions.
1. Engine Misfires
One of the most common problems with the 2015 Chevy Equinox is engine misfires. This can be caused by a variety of issues, such as a faulty ignition coil, spark plug, or fuel injector. Symptoms of engine misfires can include rough idling, reduced power, and a check engine light. To fix this issue, it’s important to identify the root cause of the misfire and replace any faulty parts.
2. Power Steering Issues
Another common problem with the 2015 Chevy Equinox is power steering issues. This can be caused by a leak in the power steering system, a malfunctioning power steering pump, or a problem with the steering gear. Symptoms of power steering issues can include difficulty turning the steering wheel, a squealing noise when turning the wheel, or a shaking or vibrating sensation while driving. To fix this issue, it’s important to identify the root cause of the power steering problem and replace any faulty parts.
3. Transmission Problems
Some 2015 Chevy Equinox owners have also reported problems with the transmission. This can include issues with shifting, slipping gears, or a lack of power. Transmission problems can be caused by a variety of issues, such as a faulty transmission control module, low transmission fluid, or a damaged transmission. To fix this issue, it’s important to identify the root cause of the transmission problem and replace any faulty parts.
In Conclusion…
In this article, we have covered a lot when it comes to the 2015 Chevy Equinox. We learned all the basic information and the specs of the Equinox.
Then, we learned more about the engines, in this case, the 2.4L. This engine is a good buy, but you should find one in decent condition. Then we have covered the issues related to this engine as well as with other systems of the Equinox like the transmission, interior, and exterior wear and tear, and rust buildup.
Remember that when getting a used Equinox, always try to get the one that is the most preserved out of the bunch. This will make your life easier and you will not have to spend a lot on repairs.