The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV with a price range of $9,327 to $13,829. Engine and transmission problems are common, making the Equinox a car buyers should not purchase.
2012 Chevrolet Equinox: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2012 model year include advanced safety technology, and an updated infotainment system.
- Reliability ratings are good, according to J.D. Power, with fewer complaints than the 2011 model.
- Two engine choices are available, including a V6, which is rare for a compact SUV.
- Fuel economy is good, coming in 4th place out of 23 compact SUVs with a combined rating of up to 26 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are better than average with 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests, and a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- The 2012 Chevy Equinox ranks 14th out of 23 compact SUVs based on owner reviews. Common mechanical problems and expensive ownership costs make the Equinox rank low, and it’s an SUV buyers should avoid.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox Have?
The 2012 Chevy Equinox has more complaints from owners than other compact SUVs on the market, and many of them are severe. There are also more problems than the 2013 model.
Engine problems are very common and some issues include excessive oil consumption, stalling, and complete engine failures. Some owners have had to replace the motors, costing over $2,500. In other cases pistons and rings have to be replaced, and cost about $1,500.
Transmission problems, including irregular shifting, are additional issues. There’s no definitive source, and there can be software or physical problems. If your SUV shifts roughly between gears letting a technician diagnose the problem is the best course of action.
Windshield wiper motor failures are another frequent problem. The motor wears out and has to be replaced costing about $240, depending on local labor rates.
There are 3 recalls, which is better than other SUVs from the same year. The recalls include the tire pressure monitoring system, seat height adjuster bolts, and the key can be removed while the vehicle is not in park. Most serious is being able to remove the key since the problem leads to rollaway situations.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2012 Chevy Equinox falls near the middle of the class regarding price with a range of $9,327 to $13,829, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $23,530 to $30,970. Depreciation is average, losing about 40% of the original value over the first 5 years of ownership.
- LS is the entry-level model with 17-inch alloy wheels, cloth seating, a 2-way power driver’s seat, cruise control, and a 6-speaker stereo system with OnStar, Bluetooth, and AM/FM/CD playback with an AUX port.
- LT is in the middle of the lineup, adding 18-inch alloy wheels, a roof rack, heated mirrors, a rearview camera, upgraded cloth seating, heated front seats, and a 7-inch infotainment system with USB connectivity.
- LTZ is the flagship choice with 19-inch wheels, leather seating, automatic headlights, parking sensors, a power liftgate, and premium 8-speaker Pioneer stereo system.
How Long Will the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox Last?
A properly maintained 2012 Chevrolet Equinox will last about 150,000 miles, which is shorter than some competitors. Expensive engine problems mechanically total out some vehicles. The regular maintenance costs are higher than some other compact SUVs. Repair Pal estimates them to be $563 per year.
It is very reliable as long as you keep up with your scheduled maintenance recommendations. Have noticed lately that the tranny skips once in a while.
The vehicle is a reliable one. I have only had two problems and they were easily fixed. If you maintain your vehicle and do what you need then it will remain in good shape.
The Chevrolet equinox is very dependable. It starts easily and the drive is very smooth. No problems since purchased.
It was reliable at first. Excessive oil consumption is a problem. You must put oil in every 1000 miles. And the oil gums up and ruins motor.
I have a had a few issues due to me being on a dirt road so it does take a beating but they have been issues recently and I have been driving this car for 5 years so it has held up well.
I do not find this vehicle to be reliable. I had to replace the engine at 50,000 miles. I take care of my vehicle and do regular oil changes and it has not helped.
It is reliable in all seasons and all kind of weather. I had a couple of engine issues, but nothing too severe.
The 2012 Chevy Equinox is reliable. And no problems it has not caused me. It is a very dependable vehicle.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is decent for the time in the 2012 Chevy Equinox, and there are good updates for the model year.
- Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with satellite radio, Bluetooth, and AUX connectivity, as well as 6 speakers.
- Upgrades include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, USB connectivity, and an upgraded Pioneer 8 speaker stereo system.
- Standard safety features include airbags, antilock brakes, stability control, and OnStar communications. Optional upgrades add parking sensors, lane keeping assistance, and a rearview camera.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance in the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is weaker than some other compact SUVs, even with the optional V6. The upgraded engine takes the SUV from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 8.3 seconds.
- The base engine is a 2.4L 4-cylinder with 182 horsepower.
- An upgraded 3.0L V6 is available and has 264 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Equinox?
The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV, but is larger than some of the competitors. Passenger space is good in the backseats with plenty of legroom, but taller adults may have limited headroom. Cargo space is okay for the class with 31.4 cubic feet of room behind the seats and 63.7 when the seats are folded flat.
How Does the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox Compare to Other SUVs?
Ranking 14th out of 23 compact SUVs, based on owner reviews, the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is in the lower half of the group.
One of the best compact SUVs is the more expensive Honda CR-V. The CR-V stands out with better reliability ratings, a lower cost of ownership, and a more roomy cabin. Where the Equinox wins, the competition is with higher quality materials, and more safety technology available. Overall, the CR-V is a better choice and will spend less time in the shop.
Another close competitor is the Ford Escape, which is in the same price range. Where Ford wins is with better exterior styling, and a lower number of complaints. The Chevy, on the other hand, has better safety scores, and more up-to-date technology. Both are not great choices for shoppers with high ownership costs, and we recommend going with another option.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox a Good SUV?
No, the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is not a good SUV based on information from 810 verified owner reviews, and 14 government and automotive websites. Positives include a good interior for the price range, and updated technology. Downsides include some serious engine problems, as well as an uncomfortable ride. Overall, the Equinox is an SUV buyers should avoid.