The oil filter on a 2015 Chevy Equinox is mounted on the underside of the engine, with the exact location depending on the engine. For the 2.4L inline-4, it sits inside a plastic housing on the lower passenger-side of the engine block. For the 3.6L V6, the filter is a traditional canister mounted on the lower front of the engine. In both cases, you’ll typically need to access it from underneath the vehicle, often after removing the front underbody shield or splash guard.
Engine options and oil filter locations
The 2015 Equinox offered two primary engines. Each engine type places the oil filter in a different spot, but both are reachable from beneath the vehicle with the right precautions.
2.4L Ecotec inline-4 oil filter location
On the 2.4L engine, the oil filter is a cartridge located inside a black plastic housing attached to the bottom of the engine block near the passenger side. Access is usually from beneath the vehicle, and you may need to remove the front underbody shield to reach the housing. Replacing the element involves removing the housing cap and ensuring the new seal or O-ring is in place.
3.6L V6 oil filter location
On the 3.6L V6, the oil filter is a traditional canister mounted on the lower front of the engine, also accessible from underneath after removing the undercar shield. Replace the filter by removing the canister, installing the new filter element, and reseating the cap and seal as required.
How to locate and replace the oil filter on a 2015 Equinox
Follow these steps to locate the filter and perform a change. The exact location will differ by engine type, so identify your engine first.
- Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and let the engine cool before working under the car.
- Raise the vehicle and remove the front underbody shield or splash guard if present to expose the engine area.
- Identify whether your Equinox has the 2.4L or the 3.6L engine to know where the filter sits (see above).
- Place a drain pan under the oil pan and remove the drain plug to drain the old oil.
- Locate the oil filter housing or canister. For the 2.4L, loosen and remove the housing cap; for the 3.6L, loosen the canister cap and remove the old filter.
- Install the new filter element, replace any O-rings or seals, and reattach the housing cap or canister.
- Refill with the correct oil type and amount for your engine, check for leaks, and lower the vehicle.
Note: Always use the correct oil specification for your engine and consult the owner's manual or GM service documents for exact torque and procedure guidance. If you are unsure, have a professional perform the service.
Following these steps will help you locate and replace the oil filter on a 2015 Equinox, whether you drive the 2.4L or the 3.6L model.
Summary
The 2015 Chevy Equinox hides its oil filter in one of two places depending on the engine: a cartridge-style filter in a bottom-front passenger-side housing for the 2.4L, or a canister-style filter on the lower front of the engine for the 3.6L. Both are accessible from underneath the vehicle with the proper protective shields removed, and the process mirrors standard GM oil-change procedures. Always confirm engine type and refer to GM guidelines for safe, correct service.