Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2014 Chevrolet Equinox
The 2014 Chevrolet Equinox has a significant number of complaints, particularly regarding engine issues and windshield wiper failures. There is one recall campaign for windshield wiper motor failure due to corrosion. Other areas of concern include electrical systems and power train. Due to the limited recall data, buyers should be cautious and conduct a thorough inspection.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2014 Chevrolet Equinox has 1 NHTSA recall campaign and 549 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #22V165000 Windshield Wipers May Fail NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 219 complaints
- Visibility/Wiper 167 complaints
- Electrical System 46 complaints
- Unknown or Other 42 complaints
- Power Train 40 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 34 complaints
Of the 549 complaints on file, 23 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 549 complaints, owners report 11 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Engine stalling
How to check: Listen for rough idling or stalling during a test drive.
Faulty electrical system
How to check: Inspect for flickering lights and check all electrical functions.
Windshield wiper failure
How to check: Test wipers for smooth operation and consistent performance.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or hesitation.
Red flag: Knocking or loud ticking noises
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe engine idle for smoothness.
Red flag: Shaky or rough idling
- 03
City driving
What to check: Check for smooth gear changes.
Red flag: Jerky or delayed shifting
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure acceleration is smooth and quick.
Red flag: Lag or stuttering during acceleration
- 05
Braking
What to check: Feel for vibration or noise when braking.
Red flag: Pulsing or grinding noises
- 06
Parking
What to check: Test steering for ease and noise.
Red flag: Stiff or noisy steering
- 07
Turn on accessories
What to check: Check all lights and electronics.
Red flag: Flickering or non-functioning lights
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the windshield wiper recall been addressed?
- Have there been any engine repairs?
- Are there electrical issues to be aware of?
- Has the vehicle ever stalled unexpectedly?
- Are maintenance records complete and available?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Maintenance records
- Recall repair records
- Vehicle history report
- Title status clarification
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2014 Chevrolet Equinox at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2014 Chevrolet Equinox? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.