This page covers 2 recalls, 746 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2013 Chevrolet Equinox.
19–26 mpg combined
9–12.4 L/100km
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 8 tested variants for this model year.
4/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
The 2013 Chevrolet Equinox generates complaints dominated by engine and visibility issues. Engine problems are by far the most reported concern, with owners describing excessive oil consumption as a recurring theme, many report needing to add oil well between scheduled changes, sometimes finding the dipstick dry with no warning light triggered. Related complaints include the oil life monitoring system failing to flag critically low levels. Owners also report stalling, loss of power, and the engine entering limp mode accompanied by shaking and loud knocking sounds. A smaller number of complaints point to PCV valve failures leading to seal damage. Visibility and wiper complaints make up the second-largest group, with owners reporting problems with wiper performance and forward sightlines. Powertrain complaints trail at a lower volume. The oil consumption pattern is the thread running through the largest share of engine reports, with many owners noting the problem appears without any dashboard warning.
746
Total Complaints
18
Crash-Related
5
Fire-Related
13
With Injuries
By System
The 2013 Chevrolet Equinox has 2 recalls, the more serious being a windshield wiper system where corroded ball joints in the wiper module can cause one or both wipers to stop working, reducing visibility in rain or snow. The second recall involves the ignition and transmission interlock: the park lock lever may allow the key to be removed before the transmission is fully in Park, which can allow the vehicle to roll away while someone is getting out.
At a glance
What can fail
Ball joints in the windshield wiper module can corrode and wear, causing one or both wipers to stop working.
What the fix does
Dealers will repair the AIP-hole, inspect the front wiper module, and replace it if needed at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
At a glance
What can fail
The electronic park lock lever may allow you to remove the ignition key even when the transmission is not in PARK, which can lead to unintended vehicle movement.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace the key cylinder lock housing if necessary, at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
