Blog

DTP Parts is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

Affiliate Disclosure: dtpparts.com is a participant in affiliate advertising programs. We may earn a commission when you purchase through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. Our recommendations are based on research and expertise — not paid placements.

Best Tools for Chevy Equinox (2019-2024): Everything You Need in the Garage

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned DIY mechanic, having the best tools for your Chevy Equinox can save you hundreds of dollars in shop labor and keep your crossover running like new. The 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox — available with the 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder or the optional 2.0L turbo — is a capable and popular compact SUV, but it has its quirks when it comes to maintenance and repairs. From oil changes and brake jobs to diagnosing that stubborn check engine light, this guide covers every essential tool you need to tackle Equinox maintenance with confidence.

We’ve broken down the top tool picks by category, explained exactly what to look for when buying, and included a quick comparison table so you can find the right option for your budget fast. Let’s get into it.

---

Quick Comparison Table: Best Tools for the 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox

Tool	Best For	Skill Level	Price Range
OBD2 Diagnostic Scanner	Reading & clearing fault codes	Beginner	$30–$200
Torque Wrench (3/8″ Drive)	Lug nuts, drain plug, suspension	Beginner–Intermediate	$30–$120
Floor Jack & Jack Stand Set	Safe vehicle lifting	Beginner	$60–$200
Brake Caliper Wind-Back Tool	Rear brake pad replacement	Intermediate	$20–$60
Oil Filter Wrench	Oil changes (1.5L & 2.0L turbo)	Beginner	$10–$30
Mechanic’s Socket Set (SAE/Metric)	General repairs & maintenance	All levels	$50–$250
Battery Tester / Maintainer	Diagnosing electrical issues	Beginner	$25–$80

---

Top Tool Picks for the 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox

1. OBD2 Diagnostic Scanner — The Must-Have First Tool

If you own a 2019-2024 Chevy Equinox, an OBD2 scanner is the single most valuable tool you can own. These model years use GM’s advanced ECU system, and the 1.5L turbo engine is notorious for triggering codes related to the intake, PCV system, and fuel trims. A quality scanner lets you read live sensor data, clear codes, and even reset your oil life monitor without a dealer visit.

Top Pick: LAUNCH CRP129E or Autel MaxiCOM MK808 — Both offer GM-specific coverage including ABS, SRS, and transmission diagnostics far beyond basic code reading.

Shop OBD2 Scanners for Chevy Equinox

[CTA_BUTTON:obd2-scanner-chevy-equinox:Amazon]

✅ Pros:

• Saves money on diagnostic fees ($100+ per dealer visit)
• Works on all 2019-2024 Equinox trims (L, LS, LT, Premier, RS)
• Live data streaming for real-time sensor monitoring
• Resets oil life, TPMS, and service reminders

❌ Cons:

• Budget scanners miss transmission and ABS codes
• Advanced units can be expensive ($150+)

---

2. 3/8″ Drive Click Torque Wrench — Precision for Every Fastener

The Equinox’s lug nut torque spec is 140 lb-ft, and the oil drain plug requires 18 lb-ft. Getting these wrong means stripped threads or dangerous wheel separation on the highway. A quality click-style torque wrench in the 3/8″ drive size handles both jobs and everything in between.

Top Pick: Tekton 24335 or CDI Torque 2503MFRPH — Both deliver ±4% accuracy and a satisfying click at torque specification.

Shop Torque Wrenches

[CTA_BUTTON:torque-wrench-3-8-drive:Amazon]

✅ Pros:

• Prevents over-torquing and fastener damage
• Essential for brake calipers, suspension bolts, and wheel lugs
• Dual-range models (10–150 ft-lb) cover nearly every Equinox spec

❌ Cons:

• Requires occasional calibration for long-term accuracy
• Cheap models lose accuracy quickly

---

3. Low-Profile Floor Jack & Jack Stand Set — Safe Lifting Is Non-Negotiable

The 2019-2024 Equinox has a relatively low ground clearance, so a low-profile floor jack (minimum entry height of 3.5″ or less) is essential. Never use the factory scissor jack for anything beyond roadside tire changes. A proper 2-ton or 3-ton hydraulic floor jack paired with rated jack stands is the foundation of safe DIY work.

Top Pick: Arcan XL2000 2-Ton Low Profile Jack or a Torin Big Red 3-Ton combo kit for those who need the stands included.

Shop Floor Jack & Jack Stand Sets

[CTA_BUTTON:floor-jack-jack-stands-equinox:Amazon]

✅ Pros:

• Low entry height clears Equinox’s front splitter and rocker panels
• Dual pump pistons for fast lifting
• Jack stands rated at 3 tons offer a wide safety margin

❌ Cons:

• Full kits take up significant garage space
• Quality units weigh 40–60 lbs

---

4. Brake Caliper Wind-Back Tool Kit — Required for Rear Brake Jobs

The Equinox uses electric parking brake (EPB) calipers on the rear axle for 2019-2024 models. Unlike front calipers you simply compress, the rear pistons must be rotated clockwise while pressing inward to retract. Without the proper wind-back tool kit, you will damage the caliper trying to force it. This is one tool Equinox owners absolutely cannot skip.

Shop Brake Caliper Wind-Back Tool Kits

[CTA_BUTTON:brake-caliper-wind-back-tool:Amazon]

✅ Pros:

• Prevents costly caliper damage ($150+ per caliper)
• Universal kits include adapters for dozens of vehicles
• Relatively inexpensive ($20–$50 for quality sets)

❌ Cons:

• EPB calipers also require a scan tool to retract electronically on some trims
• Cheap sets strip or break under pressure

---

5. Oil Filter Cap Wrench — Specific Fit for the 1.5L & 2.0L Turbo

Both Equinox turbo engines use a cartridge-style oil filter housed in a plastic cap (typically 32mm or 36mm). Standard filter pliers won’t work cleanly here. A proper cap-style oil filter wrench with the correct hex size makes oil changes clean, quick, and damage-free.

Shop Oil Filter Wrenches for Chevy Turbo Engines

[CTA_BUTTON:oil-filter-cap-wrench-chevy:Amazon]

✅ Pros:

• Exact fit prevents rounding off the plastic filter housing
• Inexpensive — usually under $15
• Works with standard 3/8″ drive ratchet

❌ Cons:

• Verify the millimeter size before ordering (1.5L vs 2.0L may differ)

---

6. Comprehensive Metric/SAE Socket Set — Your Everyday Workhorse

The Equinox uses metric fasteners almost exclusively, but a combined SAE/metric set ensures you’re covered for accessories and aftermarket parts. Look for a set that includes 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ drive sockets, deep well sockets, and a variety of extension bars. Brands like Craftsman, GearWrench, and Milwaukee offer excellent value in the $80–$180 range.

Shop Mechanic’s Socket Sets

[CTA_BUTTON:socket-set-metric-sae-mechanic:Amazon]

✅ Pros:

• Handles 90% of all Equinox maintenance tasks
• Deep well sockets reach recessed fasteners on suspension and exhaust
• Lifetime warranties available on major brands

❌ Cons:

• Budget sets use softer steel that rounds fasteners
• Large sets can be overwhelming for new DIYers

---

Buying Guide: What to Look for When Choosing Tools for Your Equinox

Match the Tool to Your Most Common Repairs

Think about what you actually plan to do. If you’re sticking to oil changes and air filters, you need a basic socket set, oil filter wrench, and a torque wrench. Stepping into brakes or suspension work? Add the caliper wind-back kit, a floor jack/stand set, and an OBD2 scanner to your list before you start.

Invest in Quality Where It Counts

Don’t cut corners on safety tools. A cheap floor jack or poorly rated jack stands are dangerous. Spend appropriately on lifting equipment. For hand tools like sockets and wrenches, mid-tier brands (Tekton, GearWrench, Craftsman) offer excellent value without the premium cost of Snap-on or Mac Tools.

Check Compatibility With Your Specific Engine

The 2019-2024 Equinox was sold with two engine options: the standard 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder (LYX) and the optional 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder (LSY). Oil filter cap wrench sizes and some specialty tools may differ between the two. Always confirm your engine code before purchasing.

Look for Lifetime Warranties

Top tool brands stand behind their products with lifetime warranties. Craftsman, Tekton, and GearWrench all offer this on hand tools. It’s a sign of quality and gives you peace of mind for years of use.

---

Brief Install Overview: First-Time Oil Change on the 2019-2024 Equinox

Here’s a quick snapshot of a standard oil change to show how these tools work together:

1. Lift the vehicle with your floor jack at the front subframe jack point and secure on jack stands.
2. Remove the drain plug with a 15mm socket and your torque wrench (retorque to 18 lb-ft on reinstall).
3. Remove the oil filter cap using your 32mm or 36mm cap wrench — the filter cartridge comes out with it.
4. Install the new filter cartridge, lube the new O-ring, and reinstall the cap to spec (typically 25 Nm / 18 lb-ft).
5. Reinstall the drain plug with a new crush washer.
6. Fill with the correct oil — the 1.5L takes 5 quarts of 5W-30 dexos1 Gen 2; the 2.0L takes 5.5 quarts.
7. Reset the oil life monitor via the DIC or with your OBD2 scanner.

Total time for an experienced DIYer: 25–35 minutes.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

---

Final Verdict: Building Your Chevy Equinox Tool Kit

The best tools for your Chevy Equinox (2019-2024) don’t have to cost a fortune — but they do need to be the right tools for the job. Start with the essentials: an OBD2 scanner, a quality socket set, and a torque wrench. Add a floor jack and jack stand set the moment you want to go deeper than under-hood work. If brakes are on your radar, the caliper wind-back kit is non-negotiable for this platform.

Invest once in decent quality, and these tools will serve you across multiple oil changes, brake jobs, and suspension repairs for years to come. The Equinox is a reliable crossover with straightforward maintenance needs — the right tools just make those needs even easier to meet.

Start building your Equinox tool kit today and keep your maintenance dollars in your pocket where they belong.