Used 2006 Chevrolet Equinox Consumer Reviews
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'06 Equinox (certified/used)
Bought this car for my new job as a sales rep. I travel a lot and have to load the car to capacity with heavy/bulky job supplies. This car has been great for me, handles fine in all weather conditions, looks good, and has just enough pep. I had a Honda Prelude before this and I thought gas mileage and pep would be a concern but it's been satisfactory considering that I load a lot of cargo in it. I think it's a great buy and would prefer it over the Vue. I disagree with many of the other negative posts on this SUV, maybe they expected more but I expected less. I do find it uncomfortable after long trips, but I drive a lot and any car would be the same, IMO.
I'm happy
I researched, compared, and test drove the Honda CRV, Toyota Rav 4, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Hyundia Santa Fe, Ford Escape, and the Nissan XTerra. I found that although nothing in life is perfect, the Equinox was the best choice. It has the best safety rating, the most passenger and cargo room, the best "feel" on the road, the best exterior design, and the most for the money. Sure it turns wide, but it's only 3 inches shoter than some full- sizr SUV's and that is to be expected. Fuel consumtion could be better, but is actually better than most of the vehicles mentioned above. Cheap looking interior? Maybe, but come on....it's a Chevy, not a Mercedes. My family and I are so far very pleased.
- LT 4dr SUVMSRP: $4,995150 mi away
- LT 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,999161 mi away
- LS 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,999208 mi away
Equinox
I have a great experience with the Equinox. I have driven everything else on the road and this has given me the best interior room and gas mileage is great too.
Not too happy with it
I have had my Equinox for about a year and a half. When I first got it. I loved it! Now I can't wait to get rid of it. It just now has 25000 miles on it and it acts like it has over 100000 miles on it. I am taking it in to the dealership for service tomorrow. I have several issues that Chevy need to address. The fuel pump is making a loud "clunking" noise right after it is started. The drivers side window is not sealing porperly. The transmission is making terrible screeching noises and it doesnt like shifting into 3rd gear. Last year,chevy gave me a new set of tires because at 13,000 the tires were shot, but evenly worn. premature wearing. I have had the tires roated 2 times during that time.
Chevy Equinox a good buy
I am very pleased with my 2006 Equinox LT AWD. The AWD is very good in snow and wet weather. The Equinox gave confidence in December snow on remote two tracks in the back woods. My comparison is to my previously owned AWD cars: Audi A6, Explorer & Chrysler T&C. My only concern is the steering, with a large turning radius and light road feel. For the price range is is well equipped compared to other models. I rent cars while traveling on business and have experienced many car-based SUV's. Aceleration is good. I get 20 mpg on highway (75 mph) , 23 mpg if I drive 65. Ride is quiet, site lines are good. Radio is outstanding.
Chevy equinox
When I got the suv I was so excited could not wait to take it home. The only problem it was having was when it started it was making some kind of noise after 2 years then battery did go out on me and I did have to replace it the front tires have to be replace. I am not going to complain. But over all I love it.
Great Car for the Money
I searched the market for an affordable SUV and feel as though I have found the best one out there. I have owned several Jeep products and have been a foreign sports sedan snob as well. My Equinox is just the right car for me now. The family and I have taken two trips to Vermont from Connecticut, one in very heavy snow and the Equinox has perfomed admirably. I stop at the gas pumps more often than I am used to...the combination of a smaller tank and lower gas mileage than I am accustomed to but I love it.
Heat Does Not Work!!!
I like the SUV but unfortunately the door that blends the heat with the air flow inside breaks inside the dash and the only way to fix it is to take apart the whole dash board costing $1,200 on up!There should be a recall because there has been 1,000s of complaints registered online and GM is thumbing there nose at the consumes.
Fun but already falling apart
I haven't had my Equinox very long and I do love it but am already dealing with some issues. The leather seats are already tearing apart on sides. The paint around the radio buttons and window buttons are chipping off. Every time I open my sun roof gresse gets on the fabric. When you roll window doiwn just a tad the noise of wind is awful. You can't even hear someone next to you. And the back seat ride is so hard and awful to ride in.
Nice vehicle
We have had it only two weeks now, but my wife, who is the principle driver, really likes it. We also own an '05 Saturn L300, which I now use for work as I travel a lot. Both vehicles are very different, but are serving us well. We are curious how well the AWD will perform this winter here in Massachusetts.
Hate this car
I bought my Equinox in Oct 2008 with less than 300 miles on it. 6 weeks later, it had already been in the shop 3 times. It was pulling and it turns out I had defective tires. Now, 3 years later I have had to buy new tires again, had to get my rotors replaced three times in 6 months, and there are noises galore. Clunking, clicking, shaking, you name it. This car is a total lemon and I would get rid of it in a second if I didn't have so much negative equity in it!
Love It!
This is the best vehicle I have ever owned. I have only had my Nox for about 4 months and I was recently rear- ended. I was so scared to get out and see the damage. I was shocked to find a few scratches - the rubber part of the bumper holds up GREAT. Wonderful in the snow and I have the basic model. Great room & sound. I'm getting ready to trade up to the LT Model. I get lots of compliments on this vehicle.
Love Hate Relationship
Like everyone else I have had issues. Just under 2 years the tires needed to be replaced. Wheel bearings were replaced under warranty and now that warranty is done need to be replaced again. There is a knock in the gas tank because something is loose. While driving on highway front console shuts off. No speedometer, tach etc. Problems with transmission. Seems to shift into neutral while driving. Cheap windshield wipers, all replaced after 2 years. Windshield chips and cracks very easily... poor design.. Headlight needed to be replaced after 3 years. Blind spots are very big and you need to be careful... Use your mirrors Key constantly sticks in ignition.
dont buy it
Check engine light comes on and we fix the problem. Couple weeks later its back on and this cycle has continued the entire we have owned it. The jack storage compartment door falls off constantly. The rear seat cover comes off ever now and then have to clip it back together. Seat cushions are impossible to keep clean. The vehicle has good pick up and rides well. It is roomy inside and especially the back seat. But I'd never buy another one.
Happy Equinox owner
For price , quality and for its class, I feel the Chevy Equinox is the best vehicle on the market money can buy. I am very happy with my purchase and would recommend the Equinox to anyone looking to buy a mid-sized SUV. The only issue with the vehicle is that with the price of gas today, mpg could be better but it is plenty of car for a car pool or average sized family.
Bermuda green in WI
The Equinox has great leg room for back seat passengers- my 3 kids fit just fine and will for some time. Also like that 2 of them fit along side a booster seat. Don't like that they got rid of the cargo shelf, would have liked to have one. Think that since the roof rails are standard the cross bars shoudl be as well- not a $150 add on. Overall though, I really like the car and how it drives.
'06 Equinox
Having owned for about three months now, my family of three thoroughly enjoy our new SUV. The styling strays from the minivan crowd and moves toward the truck-SUV group, but without the poor mileage. Ride and road noise are very agreeable and we are fans of the 17" wheel and tire combo for looks and ride characteristics. The tried and true 3400 is not a power-house in this application, but seems very peppy and is plenty for the majority of our in- town drives. The long list of standard features is a welcome treat and excellent crash safety scores justify the purchase with my family on-board. A long-time Chevy fan, I am very pleased with this new model so far.
Needs new ideas
I bought my Equinox new, and haven't had much trouble. I've had the clunking noise upon starting the car, and it's actually a recalled part that was just found out about in 7-08. I also have issues with the cupholders, e-brake and center console not being driver friendly. The leather cracks easy, and dont' get anything stuck in the sunroom seams, it will leak.
Fun to drive!
The 3.4 litre engine is peppy and responsive, gets up to speed quickly and handles well in traffic, builds RPM's fast, good bottom and mid range. Very roomy, especially in the backseat and storage areas. Center console is not layed out all that well, radio controls are confusing, overall has a fairly cheap and plain look to interior. Seats are very firm, but supportive, the huge windshield gives good visibility. Exterior is very attractive looking and is on par with other more expensive small SUVs, the sunroof is a nice option for the modest price.
Fun at First
We rented this car some years back and I fell in love with it then. I bought it used with on 33k miles on it. The car was great at first. I took it for its 1st oil change then the check engine light came on. Then the abs brakes started grinding (and brakes were new) then static was coming through the speakers while a cd was playing, which I read was an early sign of electrical problems. I loved the styling and ride of this truck but way too many problems that chevy needed to work out! Especially for the car being only 3 years old and not even hitting 40k miles yet. Needless to say I traded it in and not for a Chevy, which used to be my favorite car.
1st Chevy
I change vehichles every 2-3 years. This is my first Chevy(except for a '79 4x4 Cheyenne long gone). Overall I enjoy it except for an annoying "clunking" noise in the front end. Especially annoying is the high speed stability, or lack of it. At freeway speeds it tends to be quick to get away from you. I must always stay glued to the steering wheel or I tend to find myself in the next lane. I had the dealership check it out but they heard no noises nor found anything wrong. I like the vehichle in all other ways but am very disapointed at its handling on the freeways. The one other thing that I miss is a 'hook' to hang my dry-cleaning. I can't find one.
Love My Equinox!
I have had no problems with the vehicle! Love to drive it - rides very smooth. Instruments are user friendly and easy to access. Performance and handing are great. I would definitely choose the Equinox again!
100,000 miles and going strong.
I purchased my Nox brand new in 2006. I have had a few issues with the wheel bearings. All have been replaced within 100,000 miles. Other than that it has all been basic maintenance. The tires on my vehicle were great (lasted 95,000 miles). I had my 100k maintenance completed a few days ago, oil, trans fluid, and filters changed. Everything is still running like brand new. Would definitely purchase another Nox when the time comes.
I'm Alive
I bought my Equinox 2 yrs ago. It has 60,000 on it now. Well, did. I had to replace the rotors and was due again. Also, the main belt in the motor had to be replaced. There was a knocking sound coming from the back passenger side we could never figure out. Also, my gas gauge was never accurate after filling up. Two days ago I totaled it. I hydroplaned and flipped numerous times before playing ping pong with pine trees. It threw me out of the seat belt ans I landed halfway outside the vehicle. Also, NONE of my air bags deployed. I came out with only scratches & bruises so I'm blessed but don't really know how I'm feeling about it at this time. Cons out weigh pros but I am alive.
Nice SUV/Wagon
Sharp looking interiror. Shifter and stereo at great location. Good power. Great styling
Will Buy Again!
My husband and I leased an Equinox to take our son back to college in another state. The trip was 10 hours one way and none of us got tired! There was plenty of room to pack everything and room for us to sit comfortably. We decided then that would be the next vehicle for us We bought the Equinox pre-owned and since I am the primary driver I couldn't be more pleased. The radius turning is good and surprisingly tight. The back seat has more room than the Toyota Highlander. I love my Equinox!!
My Equinox
This is a great car with good mileage. The cargo area is spacious and the children love the reclining seats.
Great little SUV
I love my new SUV. I test drove about 7 of the new SUV's that fell in the same size catagory. The selling point for me was the room in the back seat (made available because of the ability to move the seat back.) and I love the space in the center front that is low and almost hidden to put my purse when driving. There is loads of room inside with the backseat up and lots of additional room with both of the seats laid forward. The SUV has a very smooth ride and all of the dials on the dash are within easy reach. I would recomend the purchase of the vehicle to anyone who likes the thought of being raised up off the ground but still have the small size that makes parking a breeze.
On a trip w/ '06 Nox
Have had vehicle for 7 weeks. Took trip from Colo. to Cal., went about 2400 miles r/t. Avg 21.6 mpg. Most driving was at or over 75mph on I-70 & I-15. Drove into head winds at times. Great vehicle. Comfortable. Easy, very easy, to drive. Good handling on snow packed mountain passes (in CO.) and off-road desert trails (in Ca.) didn't push it to the limit tho. Didn't need to as Nox AWD seems to have good traction control on all sorts of road conditions if it's driven reasonably. In the back of my mind the biggest concern is the long term quality of the Chinese factory built engine. Engine purrs right now, will know more in 5/6 years or so. Hopefully not my last Chevy.
Been OK
I've had this for 6 months heard about wind noise, but except for engine noise mine has no wind noise. Overall this seems so far to be a good SUV. It goes very well in snow and ice. Stops well too.
Brakes
I purchased the vehicle new and have had it in the shop 6 times for braking problems. My wife drives like a grandma so I know its not due to harsh braking. I have also had the alternator replaced, luckily that was still under warranty. Unfortunately when dealing with Chevy, the warranty does not include "normal wear and tear" on rotors or pads. I have noticed that the more frequent we replace them the faster they need replacing. This will be the 3rd time in 2009. I'm over it! This can't be legal. Someone help!
2005 Equinox
I love the vehicle. It has tons of room in the front, and back seats. It is a very nice looking vehicle on the outside, but needs a little work on the inside. The interior of the doors are less than luxurious, and the sound system needs imporvement as well. Overall, for the price, it's a very good vehicle.
Nice to drive, hard on gas
Wheel bearing went in the first month. Gas mileage is pretty bad even when driven gently (approx 22 MPG HWY) Nice to drive, very comfortable, poor visibility when backing up, needs adjustable delay wipers, -window controls are not lit (hard to find at night) -handbrake is awkward to reach -gearshift is clumsy to use -great stereo (with upgrade) -excellent in snow
Ok but not great.
I bought it brand new and did my homework. The car looks nice, but it does have some issues. The gas mileage is awful and you have to fill up at least once a week. Now they have the new hybrid out with better mileage which is what I wish my car was getting. The car does not retain it's value at all. I am trying to trade it in and can not seem to get a decent price for it. I have had to replace the brakes two times in 4 years which seems a little ridiculous. The car does have a lot of room, but I found that I never really used it. I got it for the snow as I live in New England, but the light body style of the exterior makes me slide everywhere. Wouldn't probably purchase again.
My Dad wants my car!
I love my car! I hadn't intended to purchase another GM product, but really was impressed by this vehicle. It has an amazing amount of backseat space, even my 6'1" friend had head and leg room to spare! It handles better than my last car, very responsive and easy to drive. It's soooo quiet! It has a lot of storage room in the back. The 6 CD changer XM satellite stereo with 7 Pioneer speakers is awesome! I look forward to driving every day! I haven't been this excited about a car since my first new car!
Equinox
First I am an 84 year old man--The car is fun to drive. My 16 yr old grandson gets credit for the selection but his choice was excellent. It is used mostly around town and only short trips. For older people wanting to scale down it would be hard to beat.
Our family's Equinox!
Being a mother of 3 and doing the house chores, I have experienced the new Equinox. From doing everything around the city from going to the cottage. Equinox is a great dependable SUV. Its big, roomy, and it's...well..great!
Great all around vehicle
The was a great vehicle very roomy and comfortable. Had a few factory problems but they were fixed at the dealership.
My awsome chevy NOX
The 2006 Chevy Equinox is a great SUV to have. It has the most appealing exterior and interior design than any of its other competitor. It is a real Chevy truck. With on demand AWD, its perfect. As a mom, I've seen the difference we had since we traded our 2002 Toyota Rav4. The kids don't complain about the rear seat legroom. There is enough cargo space. The LT model is great. The Equinox is a strong, confident, SUV. It is the best SUV in its class. Looks almost like the Acura MDX but is a lot cheaper. Equinox looks expensive. Its a great buy!
Equinox Rox!!
I love this car!!! It handles well, gives you a great view of the road ahead. It looks polite and aggresive at the same time.
CD player has problems
This is my first SUV. My Equinox is fun to drive, but it reminds me of driving an old tractor - I need one of those handles on the steering wheel to get it to turn around. Drives like a truck, but still small enough to park like a car. Not bad overall. I can live with the steering issue, but the CD has serious problems. I have had it replaced twice in less than 2 months. The dealership warranty is still good on it, but that isn't very comforting.
Looks are decieving.
Great looking car outside fit very good. Inside seats cannot compare with Euro/Japan cars. Breaks- evry few months. A thumping noise from day one dealer said its normal. Love the sliding rear seat. New development @ 42,000 miles blows out the driver side tailight every two weeks. Electrical components work when they want to and come back online when they want. Now the car doesnt start That famous click and dead....
Awesome new car
This was my first SUV and I could not be any happier. It handles very well in the snow and the gas mileage is pretty decent. I get a lot of compliments on my car from many different people. It is overall a great new car to buy.
Will buy again
Love the car, love the comfort, quiet ride, good power, love the sliding back seat, carries 5 very comfortably. best small SUV on the market. My mom liked it so much she traded he Honda CRV for a 2008 Equinox.
More good than bad
I have had pretty good luck with my equinox, as long as you get the oil checked every 3000 miles and contiue to change the cabin filter and air filter the gas mileage is about 26 mpg. For the last 6 months though we have a musty smell in the car, up until a couple of days ago when I received my first flat tire, we went to get the spare out, and my wheel well was filled with water. I was reading one of these reviews and somebody else had the same problem, fortunatley still under warranty, it was the pressure cabin release valve cover missing, so with two days no car, it is now fixed, so maybe this will help someone else if they find the same problem. Other than that myself and grandkids love the car.
unhappy but hopeful
I bought my used/certified 2006 eq on 2/13/09 since then I have had it back to the dealership 4 times for a starter problem and 2 times for the radio. They finally fixed my radio and after the 4th time they finally fixed my Starter problem (they replaced the whole computer system) Gas Mileage is ok but turning radius is horrible! Cup Holders and Parking Break should not be that close together
Surprised
Chevy thought of so many little incidental items in this vehicle. I was pleasantly surprised with the small touches that add up. As a new owner I can't find a thing I'm sorry about. They even went so far as turning a minus into somewhat of a plus. With the advent of a tailgate compartment it takes the rather compact cargo area issue off the board! Handles well, look's good, and is fun to drive. What else do you want in a crossover?
Love this car
I went from a '95 Silverado to this SUV. I love this car. The fit and finish is excellent along with the quality. It has plenty of power and the mileage is very good. I get a lot of comments about it. People like the style nad the inside layout. Some people thought it was a Lexus. Has great rear leg room. 5 star crash rating for front and side with side air bags was another reason to buy.
Love our Equinox
We had never heard of the Equinox before we went shopping for a car. I had a Lincoln Navigator to trade in and I wanted something smaller. We saw the Equinox and loved it immediately. It's sleek yet cute, fun to drive yet performance oriented, stylish yet comfortable, priced right and a great drive. After driving a Navigator, the Equinox is zippy, easy to park, and gets down the road in a smooth and easy manner. It's a great little SUV.
2006 Equinox
Love the car. Totally roomy, lots of storage, my dog LOVES the backseat! I am also impressed with the gas mileage...I'm getting around 21 MPG with highway/city/TRAFFIC mix.