2019 Chevrolet Equinox: True Cost of Ownership (5-Year Breakdown)
The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox is a compact crossover SUV that hits a sweet spot between affordability, practicality, and everyday comfort — making it a top pick for commuters, small families, and budget-conscious buyers who still want a modern feature set. With a starting purchase price around $19,000 on the used market, it undercuts many rivals while offering turbocharged engine options, decent cargo space, and solid tech. If you want a versatile daily driver without luxury-car running costs, the Equinox deserves a close look.
Monthly cost breakdown
The 2019 Equinox depreciates at a moderate-to-above-average rate for the segment — expect it to retain roughly 38–42% of its original MSRP after five years from new, meaning from a $19,000 used purchase the residual loss is softer but still meaningful at around $4,500–$5,500 over your ownership window. Resale values are stable but trail class leaders like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.
Pros
- Low used purchase price around $19,000 gives you a modern SUV with minimal upfront depreciation risk
- Insurance costs are below the compact SUV segment average thanks to solid safety scores and common replacement parts
- The 1.5T engine returns a respectable 26–32 MPG combined, keeping annual fuel costs manageable at typical 12,000-mile usage
- Routine maintenance costs are reasonable — oil changes, brakes, and tires are affordable and widely available at any GM-servicing shop
Cons
- The 1.5L turbocharged engine has a known oil consumption issue that can quietly escalate repair costs if ignored
- Resale value trails Toyota and Honda rivals, meaning you recover less money when it's time to sell or trade
- The base 1.5T produces only 170 hp, which can feel underpowered when merging or carrying a full load, potentially pushing some buyers to the thirstier 2.0T trim
- Infotainment and tech reliability lags behind class leaders, and out-of-warranty software or touchscreen repairs add unexpected costs
Common problems to watch for
- Turbocharged 1.5L engine oil consumption — some owners report burning up to 1 quart per 2,000 miles, so check oil regularly and keep records
- Timing chain and water pump issues on the 1.5L turbo engine have been reported, particularly before software updates; verify any TSB work was completed at purchase
- Infotainment system (MyLink) can freeze or reboot unexpectedly — a known software quirk that often requires a dealer reset or update
- Transmission shudder or hesitation on the 6-speed automatic, especially under light throttle at low speeds; a fluid flush often helps but watch for recurrence
- Rear hatch and door seal water intrusion has been reported in some units, potentially leading to interior moisture and mold if unaddressed
The verdict
At a $19,000 entry point, the 2019 Equinox delivers a genuinely capable compact SUV with manageable all-in monthly costs around $612 — competitive for the segment. The oil consumption and timing chain concerns on the 1.5T engine are real, so a pre-purchase inspection and full service history review are non-negotiable before signing. If those boxes check out, it's a smart, practical buy that won't break the bank to run day-to-day.
Best for: The 2019 Equinox is best for a budget-minded suburban commuter or small family who needs a reliable daily hauler with low insurance premiums and wants to avoid the steep depreciation of a brand-new crossover.
Other model years
How it compares
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox reliable?
It's considered average for reliability in the compact SUV class, with J.D. Power giving the 2019 model a slightly below-average predicted reliability score. The biggest risk is the 1.5T engine's oil consumption issue, which is manageable with attentive maintenance but should be verified before purchase.
How much does it cost to insure a 2019 Chevy Equinox?
Expect to pay roughly $1,300–$1,800 per year (around $108–$150/month) for full coverage, depending on your location, driving history, and deductible. The Equinox benefits from low repair costs and strong safety ratings that keep insurance premiums below the class average.
What is the fuel economy of the 2019 Equinox?
The standard 1.5L turbo is EPA-rated at 26 MPG city / 31 MPG highway / 28 MPG combined for FWD, making it one of the more fuel-efficient non-hybrid compact SUVs. The optional 2.0T drops to around 22/29 MPG combined, so stick with the 1.5T if fuel costs are a priority.
How much will a 2019 Equinox depreciate over 5 years?
Purchased at $19,000 today, you can realistically expect a private-party resale value of roughly $10,500–$13,500 after five more years and 60,000 additional miles, depending on condition and local market. That represents a depreciation loss of approximately $5,500–$8,500 over your ownership period.
What maintenance does a 2019 Equinox need in the first 5 years?
Expect oil changes every 7,500 miles (using full-synthetic 0W-20), a cabin air filter and engine air filter around 30,000 miles, tire rotations every 7,500 miles, and a transmission fluid service around 45,000 miles. Budget roughly $900–$1,100 per year for routine maintenance at a shop.
Is the 2019 Equinox a good used car to buy in 2024?
Yes, at $19,000 it represents solid value given the feature content, fuel economy, and low insurance costs — but only if you can confirm no unresolved engine oil consumption or timing chain issues via a pre-purchase inspection. It makes more financial sense than a new entry-level SUV for buyers who prioritize low monthly costs over cutting-edge tech.
Get the exact cost for your budget
Adjust the price, down payment, mileage and ZIP to see what a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox really costs you.
Estimates are AI-generated guidance based on typical costs for this year, make and model.