Dealer visit checklist

2022 Chevrolet Equinox checklist

Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.

Inspect the car

  • Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
  • Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
  • Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
  • Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
  • Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
  • Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
  • Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
  • Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)

Known 2022 Chevrolet Equinox problems to check

  • Infotainment system (Chevy Infotainment 3) freezes or reboots unexpectedly — a known software glitch that may require dealer reflash
  • 1.5L turbocharged engine has a documented history of oil dilution with gasoline, particularly in cold climates — check oil level and condition regularly
  • Transmission hesitation or rough shifts reported in early ownership, often addressed via software update at the dealership
  • Excessive wind noise from door seals at highway speeds, especially on the driver side — a common complaint in owner forums
  • Rear suspension clunks over rough pavement linked to stabilizer bar end links wearing prematurely around 30,000-50,000 miles

Ask: have these recalls been fixed?

  • TIRES: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles equipped with certain Hankook tires.
  • SEATS: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, 2022 Chevrolet Equinox, Blazer and Cadillac XT4 vehicles.
  • SEATS: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Chevrolet Equinox and 2022 GMC Terrain vehicles.
  • FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP:CONTROL/DRIVE MODULE: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Chevrolet Equinox and 2022 GMC Terrain vehicles.
  • CHILD SEAT:VEHICLE LATCH ANCHOR: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles.

Negotiate the price

  • Know the typical price: about $28,000 for this model year
  • Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
  • Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
  • Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
  • Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
  • Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
  • Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away