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Finding the Best Engine for Your Chevy Equinox (2019-2024)
If your Chevy Equinox is burning oil, knocking, or has simply given up the ghost, you’re likely searching for the best engine for Chevy Equinox to get back on the road without breaking the bank. The 2019–2024 Equinox is a capable, popular crossover — but like any vehicle, high mileage or neglected maintenance can lead to costly engine failures. The good news? Replacement engines are widely available, and with the right information, you can make a smart, confident purchase. This guide breaks down your top options, what to look for, and how to choose the engine that fits your budget and driving needs.
Quick Comparison Table: Chevy Equinox Engine Options (2019-2024)
| Engine Option | Displacement | Output | Best For | Avg. Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OEM Remanufactured 1.5L Turbo | 1.5L Turbocharged I4 | 170 hp / 203 lb-ft | Budget-conscious owners wanting reliability | $1,800 – $3,200 |
| Used/Pull-Out 1.5L Turbo | 1.5L Turbocharged I4 | 170 hp / 203 lb-ft | Low-mileage swap on a tight budget | $800 – $1,500 |
| OEM Remanufactured 2.0L Turbo | 2.0L Turbocharged I4 | 252 hp / 260 lb-ft | Performance-focused drivers & towing | $2,500 – $4,000 |
| Used/Pull-Out 2.0L Turbo | 2.0L Turbocharged I4 | 252 hp / 260 lb-ft | Affordable upgrade path | $1,200 – $2,200 |
| 1.6L Turbo Diesel (select trims) | 1.6L Turbocharged Diesel I4 | 136 hp / 236 lb-ft | Fuel economy priority (rare/discontinued) | $2,000 – $3,500 |
Top Engine Picks for the 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox
1. Remanufactured 1.5L Turbocharged I4 — Best Overall Choice
The 1.5L LYX turbocharged four-cylinder is the standard engine in the vast majority of 2019–2024 Equinox models. If you’re replacing a failed unit, a professionally remanufactured version of this engine is almost always your best bet. Remanufactured engines are rebuilt to OEM tolerances with new pistons, rings, bearings, and gaskets — giving you near-new reliability at a fraction of the cost of a brand-new crate engine.
Shop Remanufactured 1.5L Turbo Engines for Chevy Equinox
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Pros:
- ✅ Direct OEM fitment for most 2019-2024 Equinox trims (L, LS, LT, Premier)
- ✅ Typically comes with a 1–3 year warranty from reputable suppliers
- ✅ Rebuilt to address known issues (oil consumption, piston ring wear)
- ✅ Widely available through multiple suppliers
- ✅ Better long-term reliability than a used pull-out engine
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive upfront than a used engine
- ❌ Quality varies between rebuilders — always verify warranty terms
2. Low-Mileage Used 1.5L Turbo Engine — Best Budget Pick
If your wallet is feeling the squeeze, a used, low-mileage 1.5L turbo engine pulled from a salvage vehicle can be a solid solution — provided you shop smart. Look for units with under 60,000 miles and always ask for documented mileage verification. Reputable salvage yards and online engine dealers typically test-run the engine before sale.
Browse Low-Mileage Used 1.5L Equinox Engines
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Pros:
- ✅ Lowest upfront cost option
- ✅ Plug-and-play fitment with your existing accessories
- ✅ Can be a great value if mileage is genuinely low
Cons:
- ❌ Unknown internal wear — oil consumption issues may persist
- ❌ Shorter or no warranty compared to remanufactured engines
- ❌ Risk of inheriting the same problem you’re replacing
3. Remanufactured 2.0L Turbocharged I4 — Best for Performance & Towing
The 2.0L LTG turbo engine was available on higher Equinox trims and offers a significant power bump — 252 horsepower versus 170 hp from the 1.5L. If you own a Premier or RS trim, or if you’ve always wished your Equinox had a little more punch for highway merging and light towing (up to 3,500 lbs), the remanufactured 2.0L is an outstanding replacement choice.
Find Remanufactured 2.0L Turbo Engines for Equinox
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Pros:
- ✅ Substantial power and torque advantage over the 1.5L
- ✅ Supports Equinox’s maximum tow rating of 3,500 lbs
- ✅ Remanufactured units offer excellent reliability
- ✅ Ideal for AWD Premier and RS trim owners
Cons:
- ❌ Higher price point
- ❌ Slightly lower fuel economy than the 1.5L
- ❌ Only fits specific trim levels — confirm compatibility before ordering
4. Used 2.0L Turbo Pull-Out Engine — Affordable Performance Upgrade
For 2.0L Equinox owners on a budget, a used pull-out 2.0L turbo from a low-mileage donor vehicle is worth considering. The same caveats apply as the used 1.5L — verify mileage, ask for a compression test report, and buy from a supplier with at least a 90-day warranty.
Shop Used 2.0L Equinox Engines
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Pros:
- ✅ More affordable than a reman 2.0L
- ✅ Retains full performance potential if mileage is low
Cons:
- ❌ Uncertain internal condition
- ❌ Limited warranty coverage typical
Chevy Equinox Engine Buyer’s Guide: What to Look For
Confirm Exact Fitment Before You Order
The 2019–2024 Equinox uses different engines depending on trim level and model year. Always verify your VIN and confirm with the seller which engine code you need. The 1.5L LYX and 2.0L LTG are not interchangeable without significant modification. Check your door jamb sticker and original window sticker if you’re unsure.
Remanufactured vs. Used: Which Is Right for You?
Here’s the quick breakdown:
- Choose remanufactured if you plan to keep the vehicle long-term, want a warranty, and want peace of mind that known issues (like the 1.5L’s oil consumption problem) have been addressed.
- Choose used if you need to minimize upfront cost and can find a verified low-mileage unit from a reputable source.
Warranty Is Non-Negotiable
Never purchase a replacement engine without a warranty. Reputable suppliers offer 12 to 36 months on remanufactured engines. For used engines, insist on at least 90 days. A warranty protects your investment and signals that the seller stands behind their product.
Watch Out for the 1.5L Oil Consumption Issue
The 2019–2021 Equinox 1.5L turbo has a well-documented excessive oil consumption problem linked to piston ring design. General Motors issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) addressing this. When buying a remanufactured engine, ask the supplier whether the piston rings have been updated to the revised design. A quality rebuilder will have already addressed this.
Consider the Total Cost of Ownership
Factor in labor costs (typically 8–12 hours at $80–$150/hr depending on your region), new gaskets, coolant, oil, and any ancillary parts like a new timing chain kit or water pump. A complete engine swap on an Equinox typically runs $1,500–$2,500 in labor at an independent shop.
Brief Installation Overview
Note: Engine replacement on a 2019–2024 Chevy Equinox is an advanced procedure best handled by a professional mechanic or experienced DIYer with proper equipment. Here’s a high-level overview of what’s involved:
- Disconnect the battery and safely drain all fluids (coolant, oil).
- Remove the hood for better access (recommended but not always required).
- Disconnect all electrical connectors, vacuum lines, fuel lines, and coolant hoses attached to the engine.
- Remove the exhaust manifold connection and any transmission-related components.
- Support the engine with a quality engine hoist and remove the motor mounts.
- Carefully lift the engine out of the engine bay.
- Transfer all accessories (alternator, power steering pump, AC compressor, brackets) to the replacement engine.
- Lower the new engine in, reconnect all components in reverse order.
- Refill fluids, reconnect battery, and perform a thorough leak check before starting.
- Clear any fault codes with an OBD-II scanner and perform a break-in drive cycle.
Pro Tip: While the engine is out, replace the water pump, thermostat, and serpentine belt if they haven’t been recently serviced. The labor is largely paid for already.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What engine does the 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox come with?
The 2019–2024 Chevy Equinox is available with either a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder (LYX, 170 hp) as the standard engine or a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder (LTG, 252 hp) on higher trim levels. A 1.6L turbo diesel was also briefly offered but discontinued after 2020.
Is the Chevy Equinox 1.5L engine known for problems?
Yes. The 2019–2021 Equinox 1.5L turbo engine has a known excessive oil consumption issue related to piston ring design. GM addressed this via a technical service bulletin (TSB). When buying a replacement engine, look for a remanufactured unit that incorporates the updated piston ring specifications to avoid repeating the issue.
How much does it cost to replace a Chevy Equinox engine?
Total engine replacement cost for a 2019–2024 Chevy Equinox typically ranges from $3,500 to $7,500 depending on whether you choose a used or remanufactured engine and your local labor rates. A remanufactured 1.5L engine runs $1,800–$3,200 for parts, plus $1,500–$2,500 in labor at an independent shop.
Can I upgrade from a 1.5L to a 2.0L engine in my Equinox?
While technically possible, swapping from a 1.5L to a 2.0L Equinox engine is not a straightforward bolt-in replacement. It requires modifications to the engine mounts, wiring harness, ECU, and potentially the transmission. The cost and complexity typically make it impractical for most owners. It’s generally advisable to replace with the same displacement engine your vehicle came with.
What warranty should I expect on a replacement Equinox engine?
Reputable suppliers offer 12 to 36 months on remanufactured engines and at least 90 days on used pull-out engines. Always confirm warranty terms in writing before purchasing, including what is covered (parts only vs. parts and labor) and whether the warranty is transferable.
How long does a Chevy Equinox engine replacement take?
A professional mechanic typically needs 8 to 12 hours to complete an engine swap on a 2019–2024 Chevy Equinox. This can vary depending on the shop’s experience with GM vehicles, whether additional components are being replaced simultaneously, and parts availability.
Final Verdict: Which Chevy Equinox Engine Should You Buy?
For most 2019–2024 Chevy Equinox owners, the remanufactured 1.5L turbo engine is the clear winner. It offers the best balance of reliability, warranty coverage, and value — and quality rebuilders will have addressed the known oil consumption issues that plagued early production engines. If you’re on a strict budget, a low-mileage used 1.5L from a verified source can work well, but proceed with caution and demand documentation.
If you own a Premier or RS trim with the factory 2.0L engine, stick with the remanufactured 2.0L turbo to maintain your vehicle’s performance and towing capability. The added upfront cost is worth it for the warranty and peace of mind.
Whatever you choose, buy from a reputable supplier with a solid warranty policy, confirm your exact fitment using your VIN, and have a trusted mechanic perform the installation. Your Equinox has plenty of miles left to give — the right engine will get you back on the road with confidence.
Browse All Replacement Engines for 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox
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