MODEL
Chevrolet Equinox
NHTSA safety across every Chevrolet Equinox model year we cover.
Across the 8 model years of the Chevrolet Equinox we cover (2019 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2026 at 90 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2019 at 82. 22 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Chevrolet Equinox is a compact crossover SUV that has been one of GM's best-selling entries in the fiercely competitive family-hauler segment for years. Aimed squarely at budget-conscious buyers who want a practical, everyday vehicle with genuine utility, the Equinox competes against the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Our coverage spans the 2019 through 2025 model years, and the safety picture across that range is worth a close, honest look.
The Chevrolet Equinox posts some genuinely impressive crash-test numbers across its covered model years. In its best year, the 2023 model earned a MotorCaliber Safety Index of 90 out of 100, landing in our Exceptional band. Frontal and side crash protection both reached the maximum five-star NHTSA rating in that peak year, which is a meaningful result for a family-oriented compact SUV. Rollover protection came in at four out of five stars, a common outcome for taller crossovers and not a red flag, but worth noting for buyers who prioritize that metric. Where the picture gets more complicated is on the recall and complaint side. Across the 2019 to 2025 model years, the Equinox has accumulated 21 recalls, a number that sits on the higher end for this segment and deserves attention from shoppers. Owner-reported complaints total 1,158, with alleged incidents including 74 crashes, 18 fire-related reports, 43 injuries, and 1 death. These are unverified allegations, not confirmed findings, but the volume and the presence of fire-related reports in particular are signals that prospective buyers should research their specific model year carefully and verify that all open recalls have been addressed before purchase. The bottom line: the Equinox earns respect in the crash-test arena, but its recall count and complaint volume mean due diligence is non-negotiable here.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Chevrolet Equinox as a sensible, unpretentious compact SUV that delivers solid everyday practicality and a comfortable ride for its price point. Most consider it a competitive but unremarkable entry in the segment, praising its approachable packaging while noting it rarely leads the class in any single category.
- The 2023 Equinox achieved a MotorCaliber Safety Index of 90 out of 100, our Exceptional band, backed by five-star NHTSA ratings in both frontal and side crash testing, making it the strongest safety performer in the covered range.
- Rollover protection is rated four out of five stars across the best test years, which is typical for compact crossovers but means this is not a five-star sweep, so buyers prioritizing rollover resistance should keep that in mind.
- With 21 recalls across the 2019 to 2025 model years, the Equinox carries a higher-than-average recall count for its class. Before buying any used example, confirm through NHTSA's VIN lookup tool that all open recalls have been completed by a dealer.
- Owner complaints total 1,158 across covered years, with 18 fire-related allegations among them. These are unverified reports, not confirmed defects, but shoppers should research their specific model year on NHTSA's database and pay close attention to any fire or electrical-related recall notices.
Most-recalled year on record: 2022 Chevrolet Equinox with 5 recalls.