2017 Chevrolet Equinox Safety Report
2017 Chevrolet Equinox: Good Crash Ratings, High Incidence of Engine Failure Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox
Reliability Score
The 2017 Chevrolet Equinox receives a reliability score of 35 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates below-average reliability. Significant issues have been reported by owners and should be carefully evaluated before purchase.
Known Issues for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sudden Engine Power Loss/Stalling Numerous reports of the vehicle suddenly entering 'Reduced Engine Power' mode or stalling completely while driving, often at highway speeds, due to various engine malfunctions including PCV system freezing, rear main seal failure, and timing chain issues. |
High | Common | 50000-100000 miles |
| Excessive Oil Consumption Owners frequently report needing to add oil weekly or experiencing rapid oil depletion, which can lead to engine damage and failure if not constantly monitored. |
Medium | Common | 30000-80000 miles |
| Complete Engine Failure Many complaints detail complete engine failure requiring replacement, often linked to issues like blown rear main seals, timing chain malfunctions, and cylinder scoring, sometimes due to cold weather conditions. |
High | Common | 60000-100000 miles |
| Airbag Malfunction At least one complaint describes airbags failing to deploy in a crash, despite an 'Air Bag Needs Service' warning. |
High | Rare | Any miles |
| Exhaust Fumes In Cabin Reports of exhaust leaking into the cabin, causing headaches and breathing problems, with claims that GM has known of the issue. |
Medium | Occasional | Any miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox:
The most prevalent issue, accounting for 123 complaints, involves various engine malfunctions including sudden power loss, stalling, excessive oil consumption, and complete engine failure, often exacerbated by cold weather.
Issues related to the power train, sometimes in conjunction with the engine, contributing to vehicle hesitation or loss of power.
Several complaints regarding airbag system issues, including failure to deploy during a crash.
A smaller number of complaints related to visibility or wiper system issues.
Some reports of electrical system malfunctions.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox
Is the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox received good crash test ratings (4-star overall, 5-star side, 4-star frontal/rollover). However, it has a high volume of owner complaints (267 total), with a significant number (123) related to severe engine issues like sudden power loss and stalling, which can compromise safety during operation. There are also 18 reported crashes and 14 injuries.
What are common problems with the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox?
The most reported issues for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox are overwhelmingly related to the ENGINE, accounting for 46% of all complaints. These include sudden loss of engine power, engine stalling, excessive oil consumption, and complete engine failure, often linked to PCV system issues, rear main seal failure, or timing chain problems. Other less frequent issues include airbag malfunctions and exhaust fumes entering the cabin.
Are there any recalls for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox?
According to the provided data, there are no recalls issued for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox.
How does the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox perform in crash tests?
The 2017 Chevrolet Equinox received strong NHTSA crash test ratings: an Overall 4-star rating, 4 stars for Frontal crash, 5 stars for Side crash, and 4 stars for Rollover.
What should I be aware of regarding the engine in the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox?
Prospective buyers should be highly aware of the widespread and severe engine issues reported for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox. Complaints frequently describe sudden engine power loss, stalling, and excessive oil consumption, often leading to complete engine failure. These problems are particularly noted in cold weather and can occur at various mileages, posing significant safety and reliability concerns.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high volume of severe engine-related complaints and the absence of recalls to address these issues, exercise extreme caution; a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, specifically focusing on engine health and oil consumption, is strongly recommended.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Chevrolet Equinox
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox. The data includes 267 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 18 reported crashes, 4 fire incidents, 14 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.