Chevrolet Equinox Service: Recommended Maintenance Schedule

Quick Reference Maintenance Checklist

Every 7,500 Miles (Or 1 Year)

Change engine oil and filter: Use GM approved dexos1 full synthetic oil. Even if you drive low miles, the oil must be changed at least once a year.
Tire Rotation: Essential for even tread wear and to maintain the integrity of the All-Wheel Drive system if your Equinox is equipped with it.
Multi Point Inspection: Includes checking the battery, brake pads, rotors, and all essential fluid levels.
Severe Duty Note: If you primarily drive in heavy stop and go traffic or extreme temperatures, monitor your Oil Life System closely and shorten this interval to 5,000 miles.

Every 22,500 Miles (Or 2 Years)

Replace the cabin air filter: Ensures the climate control system provides clean, fresh air to all passengers and filters out environmental dust.
Inspect brake system: A detailed inspection of the brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels to preserve safe stopping power.

Every 45,000 Miles (Or 3 Years)

Replace the engine air cleaner filter: Vital for protecting your turbocharged Chevy engine from debris and maintaining optimal fuel economy.
Transmission Fluid Change: Chevrolet recommends replacing the transmission fluid and filter to ensure smooth shifting and long term reliability.
Inspect evaporative control system: Ensures the fuel system manages vapors correctly and efficiently.

Every 60,000 Miles (Or 5 Years)

Replace spark plugs: Critical for maintaining engine efficiency and preventing misfires. Technicians will also inspect the spark plug wires and boots.
Brake Fluid Replacement: Chevrolet recommends replacing brake fluid every five years to prevent moisture buildup and ensure ABS reliability.

Every 150,000 Miles (Or 10 to 15 Years)

Inspect accessory drive belts: Check for signs of fraying or cracking on the belts to prevent a roadside breakdown.
Flush and replace engine coolant: Drain and fill the engine cooling system to protect the engine from overheating in the summer and freezing in the winter.

Chevrolet Equinox Service: 7,500 Miles or One Year

The first major service by certified Chevrolet mechanics for your Equinox will focus on the basics that keep it running strong. Your initial service appointment may include:

Service timing by how you drive

Normal driving (7,500 miles): Typical family use and highway driving. Follow the oil life reminder system. Do not go past 7,500 miles or 12 months.
Severe driving (5,000 miles): City stop and go traffic, short trips under 10 miles, or very hot or very cold weather.
Extreme use (3,000 to 5,000 miles): Frequent towing, heavy cargo, or long periods of idling such as rideshare use.

What gets done

Oil and filter change using full synthetic dexos1 oil.
Tire rotation to help tires wear evenly.
Battery check and terminal cleaning.
Full brake inspection including pads and rotors.
Cooling system check to prevent overheating.
Exhaust system inspection to check for leaks or damage.

Chevrolet Equinox Service: 22,500 Miles or Two Years

At the 22,500 mile mark, the focus expands to the cabin environment and brake components. This visit includes all previous 7,500 mile services plus:

Replace the cabin air filter: This ensures the interior climate control system remains efficient and the air quality stays fresh for passengers.
Inspect brake system: A more detailed look at the brake linings, pads, rotors, and the function of the parking brake.
Inspect suspension components: Technicians check the steering gear, linkage, and suspension parts for signs of wear.

Chevrolet Equinox Service: 45,000 Miles or Three Years

The 45,000 mile interval is a key milestone for maintaining engine airflow and transmission health. Services include:

Replace the engine air cleaner filter: Critical for maintaining fuel economy and preventing debris from entering the engine.
Transmission fluid change: Draining and replacing the automatic transmission fluid to ensure the unit operates correctly without slipping.
Evaporative control system inspection: Ensuring the fuel system is secure and operating efficiently.

Chevrolet Equinox Service: 60,000 Miles or Seven Years

This major service interval is designed to ensure long term reliability as the vehicle ages. Key services include:

Spark plug replacement: Recommended at this stage to maintain proper combustion and prevent sluggish performance or hard starts.
Replace engine and cabin air filters: Refreshing both the engine intake and the passenger air supply.
Brake fluid replacement: Recommended by Chevrolet dealerships at this mileage or five year mark to remove moisture and contaminants from the braking system.
Suspension and steering linkage check: A thorough review to ensure the smooth, comfortable ride quality of the Equinox is maintained.

Adhering to this manufacturer recommended schedule helps protect your factory warranty and ensures your Chevrolet Equinox remains safe and reliable for the road ahead.

If you are ready for Chevrolet certified service in your local area, our team is equipped with GM Genuine Parts to keep your SUV in peak condition.

Chevrolet Equinox: Specialized Care and Performance Maintenance

The Chevrolet Equinox is a versatile compact SUV featuring modern technology and an efficient turbocharged engine. To keep it running smoothly for your daily commutes and family trips, it needs the right care and maintenance based on official Chevrolet guidelines.

Chevrolet Equinox Oil Specifications (Recent Models)

Oil Type: SAE 0W 20 Full Synthetic.
Oil Specification: Must meet dexos1 Gen 3 standards (this is critical for protecting the turbocharger and preventing engine pre-ignition).
Oil Capacity: Approximately 4.2 Quarts (4.0 Liters) including the filter for the standard 1.5L Turbo engine.
Oil Filter: ACDelco PF64 or PF68 (or equivalent Chevrolet approved high quality synthetic media filter).

Transmission Care: Keep Shifting Smoothly

The transmission moves power from the engine to the wheels. Taking care of it helps your Equinox last longer and prevents slipping.

When to check it:

Stop and go city traffic
Driving in hills or mountains
Towing light trailers or heavy cargo
Driving in very hot or cold weather

Maintenance tip: Change the transmission fluid every 45,000 miles under these hard use conditions. Clean fluid stops overheating and keeps gears shifting smoothly.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Care

If your Equinox has AWD, the system needs extra attention to ensure proper power delivery.

Transfer Case and Rear Differential: Check the fluid regularly. If you drive a lot in snow or rough conditions, have a Chevrolet technician change it when you service the transmission.
Tires: AWD works best when all four tires are the same brand and size. Chevrolet recommends rotating tires every 7,500 miles to prevent strain on the AWD system.

Engine Cooling: Prevent Overheating

Your turbocharged Equinox engine runs hot to work efficiently. Coolant and water pumps prevent permanent damage.

Coolant: Check the levels every 15,000 miles. Change the fluid every 150,000 miles or five years to maintain anti-freeze and anti-corrosion properties.
Water Pump: During dealership inspections, make sure there are no leaks. Catching small leaks early stops major engine problems.

Timing Chain: Keep the Engine Running Right

The modern Equinox 1.5L engine uses a timing chain. It lasts a very long time if you keep the oil clean and full.

Oil is key:

Never skip oil changes.
Dirty oil can stretch the chain and break tensioners.
Check oil levels monthly.
Low oil can damage the chain even if the dashboard Oil Life System says you have 50 percent life remaining.

Suspension and Brakes: Smooth and Safe Ride

The Equinox is a highly capable crossover, and the suspension works hard to keep your ride comfortable.

Alignment: Check whenever you get new tires or feel the car pulling to one side. Proper alignment protects tires and suspension parts from premature wear.
Brake Fluid: Change every 45,000 miles. Moisture can build up over time and cause corrosion inside the braking system.

Heavy Use & Seasonal Maintenance

Driving in heavy traffic, snow, or dusty roads puts extra strain on your Equinox.

Air Filters: Clean filters help your engine run efficiently and keep the cabin air clean. Replace the engine air filter every 45,000 miles, or sooner in dusty environments.
Undercarriage: Winter salt and dirt can cause rust. Inspect and clean the underside of your SUV to protect the frame, brake lines, and protective shields.
Towing and Heavy Loads: If you tow, have the transmission, cooling system, and hitch checked regularly by a certified service provider.

Interior and Exterior Care

Keeping the inside and outside in shape maintains the resale value of your Equinox and helps it last longer.

Seals and Weatherstripping: Treat rubber seals around doors and the sunroof to prevent cracks, wind noise, and water leaks.
Power Liftgate and Hinges: Lubricate hinges and liftgates to keep motors from overworking.
Windshield and Safety Systems: Check wipers and washer fluid for clear visibility. Keeping the windshield clean ensures that cameras and sensors for the Chevy Safety Assist system work properly.

Electronics & Technical Checks

Modern Equinox SUVs have advanced electronics that require special care.

Tires: Keep correct tire pressure and rotate them regularly for optimal AWD performance and maximum fuel efficiency.
Battery and Charging: Cold weather affects the battery, especially with the Auto Stop Start technology. Test the battery and charging system at your dealership to avoid surprises.

Why Get Your Chevrolet Serviced at House Chevrolet in Owatonna?

When you bring your vehicle to House Chevrolet, you get a skilled team of mechanics trained to handle the Chevy lineup, including both old and new models. From oil changes and engine diagnostics to genuine parts, our Chevrolet service center offers:

Factory Trained Care:

Chevrolet Equinox trained technicians: Our technicians are specially trained to service the unique components of your SUV, including:
- The efficient 1.5L Turbo engine.
- The 6-speed and 9-speed automatic transmissions.
- The advanced Ultium battery platform (if you drive an Equinox EV).
Advanced diagnostic tools:
- Uses the latest General Motors factory software and equipment.
- Helps find problems faster and avoid unnecessary repairs.

The GM Genuine Parts Advantage:

GM Genuine and ACDelco Parts:
- Factory approved OEM parts only.
- Designed to fit your Equinox perfectly and last longer than aftermarket alternatives.
Safety system calibration:
- Proper setup of advanced driver assist features after service or repairs.
- Helps ensure Chevy Safety Assist systems, like automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist, work correctly and keep your family secure.
Multi Point Vehicle Inspection:
- Every visit includes comprehensive checks on:
  - Brakes
  - Battery
  - Tires
- Helps catch wear and issues early before they turn into major, costly repairs.

This certified service approach helps keep your Equinox safe, reliable, and performing exactly the way Chevrolet intended.

Chevrolet Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

When you buy a new Chevrolet, it comes with warranty protection backed by General Motors. This coverage helps guard against defects in materials or factory workmanship. While exact coverage varies by model year, here’s what’s standard:

Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty

Length: 3 years or 36,000 miles
Covers: Most components including electronics and factory parts

Powertrain Limited Warranty

Length: 5 years or 60,000 miles
Covers: Engine, transmission, and drivetrain

Corrosion Protection

Length: 6 years or 100,000 miles (rust-through only)

Roadside Assistance & Courtesy Transportation

Length: 5 years or 60,000 miles
Includes: Towing, lockout help, flat tire service, jump-starts, and fuel delivery

View: The Chevrolet Warranty

FAQS

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Is scheduled maintenance covered by warranty? No. Warranty covers factory defects only.

What warranty coverage comes with the Equinox?

Bumper to bumper: 3 years or 36,000 miles
Powertrain: 5 years or 60,000 miles

Is any maintenance included? Yes. Chevrolet covers the first required maintenance visit within the first year for 2024 models and newer.

Can I prepay for maintenance? Yes. Prepaid plans are available through Chevrolet Protection.

Ownership and Repair Costs

How expensive is Equinox service? Average annual repair costs range from $450 to $550.

What does five year maintenance cost? Estimated total is $2,000 to $2,800. Front wheel drive models usually cost less than AWD versions.

Oil and Fluids

How often should oil be changed? Follow the dashboard Oil Life System, usually every 7,500 miles. Change oil at least once every 12 months.

When should the transmission be serviced?

Normal driving: 97,500 miles
Severe driving: 45,000 miles

When should coolant be flushed? Every 150,000 miles or 5 years using Dex-Cool coolant.

Brakes, Tires, and Suspension

How often should brakes be inspected? At every oil change during the multi point inspection.

When should tires be rotated or replaced?

Rotation: every 7,500 miles
Replacement: typically 40,000 to 60,000 miles

AWD models require regular rotation to protect drivetrain components.

Engine Components

How often should the engine be checked? A multi-point inspection is done at every service visit. Drive belts should be closely inspected at 100,000 miles.

When should spark plugs be replaced? Every 60,000 miles for the 1.5L Turbo engine.

Does the Equinox use a timing belt or chain? It uses a timing chain designed to last the life of the engine.

Filters and Battery

When should air filters be replaced?

Cabin air filter: every 22,500 miles
Engine air filter: every 45,000 miles

How long does the battery last? Typically 3 to 5 years. Test annually after year three.

Common Mechanical Watch Outs

Why does the engine shut off at stoplights? This is the Stop Start system saving fuel. If restarts feel rough, have the battery tested.

Does the Equinox require special transmission fluid? Yes. Only Dexron-VI fluid should be used.

Dealership Service Questions

Why service an Equinox at a Chevrolet dealership?

Factory trained technicians
Genuine GM and ACDelco parts
Access to software updates and recalls
Complimentary multi point inspections

Schedule Chevy Service at House Chevrolet in Owatonna, Minnesota

House Chevrolet

3700 Frontage Road West, Owatonna, MN 55060

Phone: 507-200-4947

Hours: Monday–Friday 7am–6pm

Closed Saturday & Sunday

Time to service your Chevrolet Equinox? Keep it running like new with skilled care from House Chevrolet. We’re your trusted Chevy service center serving drivers throughout southern Minnesota, including Owatonna, Medford, Waseca, Faribault, Blooming Prairie, Ellendale, Claremont, Winona, and Rochester.

Don’t put off the care your Equinox deserves. Schedule your service appointment today at House Chevrolet and enjoy stress-free, professional service that keeps you confidently on the road

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Disclaimer: House Chevrolet Owatonna believes the information and specifications on this website to be correct at the time of publishing.

Service intervals, track recommendations, fluids, costs, and warranty details are for general information only and may vary by model year, driving style, track use, and manufacturer updates. Track use increases service needs and wear. Warranties cover defects only and do not include routine or performance maintenance unless stated. This content is not a binding offer. Always follow the Owner’s Manual, Track Preparation Guide, and dealership guidance.

Images of vehicles are for illustrative purposes only. Please see the dealer for details and availability.

Chevrolet Equinox Recommended Maintenance Schedule