Best Tools for Chevy Equinox (2019-2024): Top Brands Compared

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Best Tools for Chevy Equinox (2019-2024): Which Brand Wins?

Whether you’re tackling a brake job, changing your own oil, or diagnosing that pesky check engine light, having the right tools for your Chevy Equinox (2019-2024) makes all the difference. The third-generation Equinox, available with the 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder or the optional 2.0L turbo engine, has its own quirks and torque specs that demand quality tools — not the flimsy stuff you grabbed from a dollar bin. In this comparison guide, we’re stacking up three of the most popular tool brands — INNOVA, Craftsman, and DEWALT — to help you build the ultimate Equinox toolkit without wasting money on gear that won’t hold up.

Why Your 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox Needs the Right Tools

The 2019-2024 Equinox uses a mix of metric fasteners, plastic-heavy interior panels, and an increasingly electronic drivetrain. GM’s turbocharged engines demand precise torque application during jobs like spark plug replacement (typically around 15 ft-lbs on the 1.5L), oil filter housing removal, and timing cover work. A cheap socket that slips or a scanner that can’t read GM-specific codes will cost you more in frustration — and potentially in stripped bolts — than investing upfront in quality gear.

Here’s a breakdown of the three brands we’re comparing and what they do best for Equinox owners:

• INNOVA 3100RS — Best OBD2 diagnostic scanner for DIY Equinox owners
• Craftsman 230-Piece Mechanics Tool Set — Best all-around hand tool kit for general Equinox repairs
• DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Ratchet — Best power tool for speed and accessibility in tight Equinox engine bays

Head-to-Head Comparison Table

Detailed Breakdown: INNOVA 3100RS OBD2 Scanner

If you own a 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox, you already know that GM’s turbocharged engines and complex electronics can throw a code at the drop of a hat. The INNOVA 3100RS is one of the best entry-to-mid-level scanners for decoding what your Equinox is trying to tell you. It reads and clears both generic OBD2 codes and a wide range of GM-enhanced codes, including ABS and SRS (airbag) faults — areas where cheap $20 scanners completely fall flat.

The live data stream is especially useful for diagnosing turbocharger boost issues or monitoring coolant temps on the 1.5L engine, which has a known sensitivity to cooling system health. The color-coded display makes it easy to know at a glance whether a reading is in the normal range.

Pros: Reads GM-specific codes, ABS/SRS capable, live data streaming, easy plug-and-play use
Cons: Won’t perform advanced bi-directional tests; limited to scan-and-read functions

Best for: Equinox owners who want to diagnose their own check engine lights and avoid $150 shop diagnostic fees.

Check the INNOVA 3100RS on Amazon [CTA_BUTTON:innova-3100rs-obd2-scanner:Amazon]

Detailed Breakdown: Craftsman 230-Piece Mechanics Tool Set

For the Equinox owner who wants to handle brake pad replacements, suspension work, or a full tune-up, a comprehensive socket and wrench set is non-negotiable. The Craftsman 230-Piece Mechanics Tool Set is a crowd favorite for good reason: it covers SAE and metric sizes, includes 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ drive sockets, and is backed by Craftsman’s legendary lifetime warranty.

On the 2019-2024 Equinox, you’ll lean heavily on the 10mm, 13mm, and 15mm sockets for just about everything — from removing the battery hold-down to unbolting brake calipers. The included ratchets have a fine-tooth mechanism that works well in the Equinox’s moderately tight engine bay, and the blow-molded carrying case keeps everything organized in your garage.

Pros: Massive coverage of metric and SAE, lifetime warranty, well-organized case, excellent value
Cons: Ratchets are not as smooth as professional-grade options like Snap-on or Mac Tools

Best for: DIYers doing full-service repairs on their Equinox — from oil changes and brake jobs to suspension and engine work.

Shop the Craftsman 230-Piece Set [CTA_BUTTON:craftsman-230pc-mechanics-tool-set:Amazon]

Detailed Breakdown: DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Ratchet

If you’ve ever struggled to break loose a stuck 15mm bolt under your Equinox’s chassis in an awkward position, you already understand why a cordless ratchet is a game-changer. The DEWALT 20V MAX 3/8″ Cordless Ratchet brings serious torque (35 ft-lbs max) and variable speed control to jobs that used to eat up your knuckles and your afternoon.

On the Equinox’s 1.5L LYX engine, the cordless ratchet shines during spark plug access (the coil pack bolts are a pain), serpentine belt tensioner work, and heat shield removal. The compact head fits into tighter spaces than a full impact wrench, and since it runs off DEWALT’s widely compatible 20V MAX battery platform, you may already own compatible batteries.

Pros: 35 ft-lbs of torque, variable speed, compact head, works with existing DEWALT 20V batteries
Cons: Higher upfront cost; battery sold separately in most kits

Best for: Experienced DIYers and shadetree mechanics who work on their Equinox regularly and want to speed up repetitive fastener removal.

Get the DEWALT 20V MAX Ratchet [CTA_BUTTON:dewalt-20v-max-cordless-ratchet:Amazon]

Which Tool Should You Buy for Your Chevy Equinox?

Here’s the honest answer: you probably need all three — but not all at once. Here’s how to prioritize based on your situation:

• If your check engine light just came on: Start with the INNOVA 3100RS. Knowing what code you’re dealing with before spending a dime on parts will save you significant money.
• If you’re building your first toolkit: The Craftsman 230-Piece Set is your foundation. It covers 90% of what you’ll ever need on an Equinox and the lifetime warranty means you’re covered for life.
• If you’re a regular DIYer tired of slow hand-ratcheting: Upgrade to the DEWALT 20V MAX Ratchet and you won’t look back.

Bottom line: The Craftsman set wins on overall value and versatility for most Equinox owners. The INNOVA scanner is a must-have for anyone who wants to diagnose their own issues. And the DEWALT ratchet is a premium upgrade that pays for itself in saved time and frustration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size sockets do I need most for a 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox?

The most commonly used socket sizes on the 2019-2024 Equinox are 10mm, 13mm, 15mm, and 18mm for general service work. For lug nuts, you’ll need a 19mm socket. Spark plugs on the 1.5L engine require a 5/8″ (16mm) spark plug socket.

Can I use a regular OBD2 scanner on my 2019 Chevy Equinox?

Yes, all 2019-2024 Equinox models are OBD2-compliant. However, for reading GM-specific codes — including ABS, transmission, and TPMS faults — you’ll want a scanner that supports enhanced GM protocols, like the INNOVA 3100RS or similar mid-range options.

Is the 2019-2024 Equinox good for DIY repairs?

Generally, yes. Common jobs like oil changes, brake replacements, air filter swaps, and battery replacement are very DIY-friendly on the Equinox. The turbocharged engines add some complexity to spark plug and timing-related work, but it’s still manageable with the right tools.

Do I need metric or SAE tools for a Chevy Equinox?

Primarily metric. The Equinox, like most modern GM vehicles, uses metric fasteners throughout the engine, suspension, and body. SAE sizes are rarely needed, though a complete set that includes both is always a smart investment.

What torque wrench setting do I need for Equinox lug nuts?

The 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox lug nut torque specification is 140 ft-lbs (190 Nm). Always use a calibrated torque wrench when reinstalling wheels — never rely solely on an impact gun for final torque.