NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Chevrolet Equinox
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
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 2021 Chevrolet Equinox earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 88 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. It has 4 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers 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.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15338
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
CHILD SEAT:VEHICLE LATCH ANCHOR23V339000
Risk: The inability to install a child seat with the LATCH anchorage bars could result in an unsecured child seat, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy: Owners are advised to install child seats using the vehicle's rear seat belts until the remedy is complete. Dealers will inspect the latch anchorage bars, and remove and replace the finish, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 2, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this
Reported 2023-05-11
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP:CONTROL/DRIVE MODULE23V013000
Risk: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 5, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N222372310.
Reported 2023-01-19
TIRES21V612000
Risk: Tread separation can result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the tire DOT numbers, and replace any affected tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 31, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782; and Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N212343560.
Reported 2021-08-05
SEAT BELTS20V811000
Risk: If a seat belt assembly is not properly attached to the vehicle, the seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the suspect bolts, free of charge. The recall began January 29, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8785, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202322230.
Reported 2020-12-23
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
85 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.