The most frequently reported issues for the 2016 Equinox center on the automatic transmission, electrical and infotainment systems, and engine performance, with occasional steering and braking concerns. While not universal, these problems show up in owner surveys and reliability databases and are worth checking when buying used or seeking service.
The 2016 Equinox sits in GM’s second-generation lineup and has been a popular family SUV thanks to its cargo space and available all-wheel drive. However, like many mid‑cycle updates, it has generated a mix of complaints from owners who logged miles on the clock. This article surveys the problems most commonly cited by owners, explains how they present, and suggests typical remedies and precautionary steps, including how to verify recalls for a used vehicle.
Transmission and drivetrain concerns
Below is a summary of transmission and driveline symptoms reported by owners, including how they tend to manifest and what repairs are commonly attempted.
- Rough or abrupt shifting, especially when moving between gears or under light acceleration
- Transmission hesitation or delayed engagement when shifting from Park/Reverse to Drive
- Slipping or loss of drive, occasional failure to move without warning
- Shuddering or torque converter concerns, particularly at steady highway speeds
- Warning lights related to the transmission or driveline, sometimes prompting a software update or valve body/solenoid service
In many cases, transmission-related symptoms are addressed with software updates, replacement of shift solenoids, or, in more severe instances, transmission repair or replacement. Regular maintenance and a careful diagnostic from a qualified shop are important to avoid misdiagnosis.
Engine and performance issues
The engine category covers problems that affect power delivery, efficiency, and emissions readiness, as reported by owners and service notes.
- Oil consumption with higher than expected top-offs between oil changes, particularly in some 2.4L engines
- Engine misfires or rough idle due to ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors
- Reduced engine performance or hesitation under load, sometimes accompanied by a check engine light
- Occasional stalling or intermittent power loss, especially at low speeds or when starting from a stop
- Catalytic converter or oxygen sensor-related codes triggering emissions-related repairs
Engine concerns often respond to targeted repairs such as coil pack or spark plug replacement, fuel injector cleaning or replacement, and addressing oil consumption through service campaigns or component upgrades. Persistent warning lights should be diagnosed with code reading to isolate the exact fault.
Electrical and infotainment problems
Electrical systems and the MyLink infotainment interface are common trouble spots for some 2016 Equinox owners, affecting convenience and safety features.
- Infotainment screen freezing, rebooting, or failing to respond to touch inputs
- Bluetooth connectivity dropouts or pairing issues with phones
- Rearview camera or park assist glitches, including delayed display or intermittent loss of image
- Amp/lighting issues, battery drain, or abnormal electrical behavior when accessory loads are applied
- Warning lights or fault messages related to sensors, airbags, or the instrument cluster
Electrical problems can range from software updates to replacement of modules, wiring harnesses, or sensors. A diagnosis with a CAN bus scanner and confirmation of any open campaigns is recommended when electrical symptoms arise.
Steering, braking, and safety-related concerns
A subset of owners reports issues that touch the vehicle’s steering feel, braking response, or warning systems, which can impact daily usability and safety.
- Unusual steering feel at low speeds or occasional power steering assist failures
- ABS or traction control warnings accompanied by dings or dash lights
- Brake pulsation or noise, especially when braking from higher speeds
These concerns often necessitate inspection of steering columns, power steering components, wheel bearings, or brake hardware. Addressing them promptly is important for safe vehicle operation.
Recalls, reliability considerations, and buying tips
There have been recall campaigns affecting some 2016 Equinox models. To determine whether a specific unit is affected, buyers should check the VIN against official recall databases and Chevrolet’s recall portal. Reliability ratings for the model can vary by trim, maintenance history, and mileage, so prospective buyers or used-car shoppers should perform a thorough inspection and review service history.
- Check the vehicle’s VIN against NHTSA and Chevrolet recall databases to identify open campaigns
- Review maintenance records for transmission service, ignition components, and electrical system work
- Have a trusted technician test drive the vehicle, focusing on transmission shifts, engine response, and electrical system behavior
- Consider a professional pre-purchase inspection if buying used to confirm no looming concerns
Recalls can be resolved at authorized service centers, but a vehicle with unaddressed recalls or ongoing mechanical issues can pose ongoing risk. Verifying recalls and maintenance history helps buyers decide whether to pursue a given used Equinox model.
Summary
The 2016 Chevy Equinox has a mix of common trouble spots reported by owners, notably transmission behavior, engine performance including oil use and misfires, and electrical/infotainment reliability. While many vehicles operate without incident, understanding these potential issues and performing due diligence—recall checks, maintenance history reviews, and a detailed pre-purchase inspection—can help buyers and owners manage cost and avoid unexpected breakdowns. As with any used car, miles and care patterns largely shape the experience, so informed ownership remains the best defense against surprises.
Is the 2016 Chevy Equinox any good?
Among the 729 owners who provided feedback on the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is mostly positive, with 68% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's comfort and styling to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest.
Do 2016 Chevy Equinox have problems?
The 2016 Equinox has about average reliability compared to other cars from the same model year.
What is the life expectancy of a 2016 Equinox?
A Chevy Equinox can last 200,000 miles or more with proper care. Some owners even report reaching 250,000 miles. If you drive around 15,000 miles per year, this means your Equinox could last 13 to 17 years before needing major repairs. The Equinox has a similar lifespan to other compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V.
What year to stay away from Equinox?
High gas consumption, lack of modern features, and faulty safety features put models made from 2010-2017 at the top of the list for Equinox model years to avoid. Specifically, ones with a 2.4L engine have disappointing fuel efficiency compared to competitors and a high engine replacement cost.