Hey guys, quick question. I’m looking at picking up a family vehicle, and I’ve come across a 2005 Equinox LT with 210,000 miles. It’s priced just right for us, and it looks to be in great condition based on the pictures. What’s your take on the reliability of this vehicle?
We won’t be putting more than 7,000 miles a year on it since I have a work vehicle for travel.
Also, do you know if it’s possible to get the service record for the vehicle?
Thanks for any insights!
Most cars typically have a lifespan of around 200,000 miles, with some lasting well beyond that mark while others may start needing major repairs around 150,000 miles. The 2005 Equinox LT seems to have a unique engine, which could make maintenance more challenging, especially if you need to replace the motor or custom parts like the oil pan. It essentially uses the Impala motor but with some modifications to fit it in, making finding parts at junkyards difficult and costly if available.
Consider opting for a Blazer or a similar vehicle instead. They’re more commonly seen on the road, especially in the West side of Washington state. While they may also be more expensive to repair, you can often find compatible parts from other SUVs or even light trucks, which can help reduce the cost of repairs, although labor costs may still be high.
Hi, Dolph. They require frequent maintenance, including the use of high-quality synthetic oil, which can help extend Equinox’s life. Some owners have reported positive experiences with proper care.
We bought it in 2021 and are the third owners. Aside from normal wear and tear, she runs great—fully loaded, was amazing in its prime—but we had to replace the engine (before the engine repair it limped along with burst head gaskets and a crack for three months, in the heat) and radiator. Everything functions!
The 2005 Chevy Equinox LT has a mixed reliability history, with common issues including transmission problems and electrical issues reported by owners.
I had a 2005 Equinox LT for four years, and it was the nicest automobile I have ever owned! I had no severe troubles; all I had to do was change the CD player, which was no huge deal. The car was really comfy, with a wide backseat, and it handled snow effectively without becoming trapped. I moved with it, and it held a lot of boxes. Depending on maintenance, I got anything from 19 to 23 miles per gallon. Unfortunately, it was totalled, but it was really reliable!
The 2005 Equinox LT could be a decent option for a family car, especially with lower yearly mileage. However, be cautious with the high mileage and prioritize a mechanic’s inspection and service record check before buying.