Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2018 Chevrolet Equinox
The 2018 Chevrolet Equinox shows moderate reliability concerns, with several recalls and a spectrum of owner complaints involving brakes, engine, and power train. While issues are not overwhelming, buyers should remain cautious, verifying possible problems during inspection and test drives. Document any unresolved recalls with the seller.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2018 Chevrolet Equinox has 5 NHTSA recall campaigns and 410 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars, averaged across 4 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #20V668000 Missing Bolts on Start/Stop Accumulator NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V576000 Insufficient Coating on Rear Brake Caliper Pistons NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V358000 Fuel Pump Flange Weld may Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V252000 Glass Not Fully Tempered/FMVSS 205 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V516000 Driveshaft Fracture and Separation NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Service Brakes 118 complaints
- Engine 86 complaints
- Power Train 66 complaints
- Electrical System 61 complaints
- Unknown or Other 56 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 33 complaints
Of the 410 complaints on file, 23 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 410 complaints, owners report 30 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Rear brake caliper gas pockets
How to check: Inspect rear calipers for unusual wear or performance issues
High pressure fuel pump detachment
How to check: Check for fuel leaks or strong odors around the engine
Driveshaft fracture potential
How to check: Listen for unusual sounds during acceleration
Electrical system failures
How to check: Test all electronics and warning lights
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises
Red flag: Knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
Idle
What to check: Observe dashboard lights and alerts
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
Initial acceleration
What to check: Notice transmission smoothness
Red flag: Harsh or delayed shifting
- 04
Low-speed braking
What to check: Feel brake responsiveness and noise
Red flag: Grinding or unresponsive brakes
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for vibrations or noises
Red flag: Vibrations suggesting drivetrain issues
- 06
Sharp turns
What to check: Assess steering responsiveness
Red flag: Stiff or unresponsive steering
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have all recalls been resolved?
- Any persistent brake issues?
- History of fuel system problems?
- Unusual engine noises reported?
- Issues with the driveshaft?
- Any electrical malfunctions experienced?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle history report
- Recall repair records
- Maintenance records
- Title and registration
- Warranty documents
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2018 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.