2017 Chevrolet Equinox problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
A typical year for this model
The 2017 Chevrolet Equinox sits mid-pack among Equinox years: 367 NHTSA complaints against a model median of roughly 510, with no recalls and no defect investigations. Complainants reported 30 injuries in total across these filings.
The trouble concentrates in one system: engine issues account for 53% of all reports (194 of 367), far ahead of other at 35. In government crash testing it earned 4 of 5 NCAP stars overall.
367
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
0
Investigations
29
Crash-involved
7
Fires reported
30
Injuries
0
Deaths
4
NCAP overall · of 5 stars
How does 2017 compare to other Equinox years?
What are the most common 2017 Chevrolet Equinox problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 194 | 53% | — flat |
| Other | 35 | 10% | — flat |
| Transmission | 32 | 9% | — flat |
| Electrical System | 20 | 5% | ▼ down |
| Fuel System | 20 | 5% | — flat |
| Airbags | 19 | 5% | ▲ up |
| Visibility & Wipers | 11 | 3% | ▼ down |
| Brakes | 9 | 2% | ▲ up |
| Speed Control | 6 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Body & Structure | 5 | 1% | — flat |
| Seat Belts | 5 | 1% | ▲ up |
| Tires & Wheels | 5 | 1% | — flat |
| Lighting | 3 | 1% | ▲ up |
| Suspension | 1 | 0% | ▼ down |
| Steering | 1 | 0% | ▼ down |
| Driver Assistance | 1 | 0% | ▼ down |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“Driving down a 4 lane busy highway. Going 65 when the car made a pop sound. We pulled over. Car caught on fire 5 mins after we were out”
“I was driving at 330am had cruise control to 70 the speed limit and when I hit my breaks the cruise control didn't disengage instead it speed faster making me lose control of me vehicle took out a sign and went over the hill. My vehicle was totaled. ”
“Majority of the oil leaked out of the vehicle, the low oil light never came on. Car was towed to the shop after I was told not to drive it, as the engine will most likely seize up. The shop found that the rear main crankshaft seal was blown out and leaking to access crank case pressure due to a PCV…”
“Driving down a 4 lane busy highway. Going 65 when the car made a pop sound. We pulled over. Car caught on fire 5 mins after we were out”
“I was in a vehicle accident the 4th of August. After the accident I noticed the airbag light on. I check the passenger seat belt and it wouldn't budge, but the air bags never deployed from the accident. About a month ago I had an issue with the car. I was driving down the road and I took a sharp…”
2017 Chevrolet Equinox — common questions
Is the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox reliable?
Its record is better than the model's norm: 367 NHTSA complaints, below the typical Equinox year, with 0 recalls and no open investigations.
What are the most common 2017 Equinox problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are engine (194 complaints), other (35 complaints), transmission (32 complaints).
Does the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox.
Which Chevrolet Equinox years should you avoid?
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the Equinox years to avoid are 2011, 2010, 2013, 2005, 2007, 2006, 2012, 2015. The cleanest record among Equinox years belongs to 2026.
How safe is the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox?
In NHTSA's NCAP crash testing, the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox earned an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
Related
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.