The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is a versatile, practical, and competitively-priced midsize SUV. While the Equinox has updated safety features and nice interiors, buyers should be aware of the engine issues and other common complaints before purchasing.

The 2012 Equinox is the smaller, low-key version of its luxury

Cadillac SRX

cousin, with both cars built on the same platform. Although the Equinox has a smaller engine and is more compact in size, it still delivers a comfortable ride on uneven roads. Despite the positives, the Equinox also comes with its fair share of problems.

Before buying an Equinox, it’s important to familiarize yourself with its common problems and owner complaints.

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The most common 2012 Chevrolet Equinox problems

The 2012 Equinox has logged over 600 complaints from its owners on the NHTSA website. These complaints range from serious engine issues to non-life-threatening inconveniences.

A majority of the complaints pertain to engine issues. This includes engine jerking and stalling after being put in gear and while running, excessive engine oil usage and oil leakage, and abnormal sounds.

Another common complaint is compressor failure. Buyers have reported that the air conditioner does not produce cold air. Although this can be corrected by getting a replacement, it is a costly inconvenience.

Other complaints regarding the 2012 Equinox include:

Transmission issues such as a broken 35R clutch wave plate and loss of reverse gear

Check engine light turns on due to gas cap issue

Rattling front lower control arm of the front suspension

Wiper parts fail and stop working completely

Electrical system issues including power locks not working

The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox also has three recalls listed on the NHTSA website:

The car key may be removed even when the car isn’t parked, which can cause the vehicle to roll away

The seat height adjuster bolt can potentially fall out, causing the driver seat to drop suddenly

Faulty tire pressure monitoring system

MORE:

Chevrolet tune-up cost

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Is the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox reliable?

Overall, the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox has average reliability for a compact SUV and ranks 23rd out of 26 vehicles on RepairPal.

If you want an affordable and compact SUV, the Equinox is a contender if you’re prepared to handle common problems. RepairPal gives the Equinox an average 3.5/5.0 rating for reliability and has a quality and reliability score of 84/100 from J.D. Power.

The average annual repair cost for the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is just over $560—lower than the average compact SUV ownership costs. Although the repairs tend to be expensive, the issues don’t occur often, which keeps the repair costs down.

MORE:

Chevrolet common problems

How to simplify car insurance shopping (and still optimize coverage!)

The Chevrolet Equinox is well-equipped with safety features and offers exceptional versatility—the only downside is the potentially severe repairs. If you’re set on the Equinox, be sure to diligently follow your

car maintenance schedule

, which can help you find any emerging issues before they become costly to repair. You can also save money by sourcing an affordable car insurance rate via the

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