The 2019 Equinox is hurt by the 1.5L turbo (LYX) excessive oil consumption and timing chain stretch complaints, plus chronic AC condenser failures and a transmission shudder TSB. The 2.0T and diesel are rarer but more durable.
The LYX 1.5L turbo is known for excessive oil consumption and stretched timing chains. GM TSB PIP5762 acknowledges the issue. Watch oil level closely if buying used.
LYX 1.5L turbo can consume oil at 1+ quart per 1,000 miles. PCV system updates and short blocks have been issued under powertrain warranty.
Oil Use Diagnosis →AC condenser corrodes/leaks early. Common across 2018-2020 Equinox. Out-of-warranty fix often $1,000+ at dealer.
AC Diagnosis →GM 9T50 9-speed in 2019 Equinox can shudder under light throttle and harsh-shift. TCM reflash and Mobil 1 ATF service typically resolves.
Shudder Diagnosis →Stretched timing chain on LYX 1.5T triggers P0008 / P0017. Symptoms include rattle on startup and check engine light.
Run an AI diagnosis →Chevy MyLink occasionally drops Bluetooth, freezes during CarPlay. Software updates available at dealer.
Run an AI diagnosis →Auto stop-start can fail to restart or restart roughly. Often traced to weak AGM battery or BCM software.
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GM acknowledges excessive oil consumption on 1.5L turbo. PCV system replacement and oil consumption test under powertrain warranty.
GM TCM reprogramming and Mobil 1 ATF service for 9-speed shudder/harsh shift on 2018+ Equinox.
Some 2019 Equinox front brake caliper bolts may not have been torqued to spec. Free inspection and repair.
If your Equinox is throwing a check engine light, these are the codes most commonly tied to the problems above. Click any code for full diagnosis steps and typical repair costs.
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Below average. The 1.5T oil consumption and AC condenser issues hurt long-term ownership. The 2.0T and diesel are better but rarer.
A significant percentage do. GM offers an oil consumption test and PCV repair under powertrain warranty.
Condenser corrosion is a known weakness in 2018-2020 Equinox. Replacement runs $900-1,500. Aftermarket condensers from Denso or Spectra cut cost significantly.
Mostly, after the TCM reflash. Some early units needed valve body work. Use Mobil 1 ATF as GM specifies.
If you find one with low miles and the 2.0T or diesel, it can be a decent buy. The 1.5T is riskier unless oil consumption has been confirmed-fixed.
With timely repair work, 150K-200K miles. The 1.5T can fail earlier if oil consumption is ignored.