Generation:
First Generation (GMT365)
Production Years Covered:
2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009
Platform:
GMT365 (shared with Pontiac Torrent, Suzuki XL-7)
Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatile and practical transportation, often as an alternative to minivans or larger SUVs.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage.
Design:
Introduced as Chevrolet's first compact SUV, based on a car platform (GM's Theta platform), offering a more car-like driving experience than traditional truck-based SUVs.
Practicality:
Offers decent passenger space and cargo capacity for its class, with available all-wheel drive (AWD).
Manual Value:
Provides dealership-level repair and maintenance data, empowering owners and independent mechanics.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (3.4L V6, 3.6L V6, 2.4L I4), Emission Control, Fuel Systems, Cooling Systems, Lubrication, Ignition, Starter, Charging System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (4T65-E), Transfer Case (if applicable to AWD models)
Chassis:
Suspension & Axle (front and rear), Brake System (hydraulic, ABS), Steering System
Electrical And Body:
Electrical Wiring Manual, Body Electrical, Restraint System (Airbags, Seatbelts), Body (exterior and interior components), Air Conditioning (HVAC)
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance schedules, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics, component testing.
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension and steering component replacement, body panel repair, electrical component repair/replacement.
Technical Information:
Service Specifications (tolerances, torque values), wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic flowcharts, special tools.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork procedures. Suitable for professional technicians and skilled DIYers.
Engine Options:
2.4L Inline-4 (LE5), 3.4L V6 (LA1), 3.6L V6 (HFV6/LY7)
2.4L Ecotec I4:
171 hp @ 6600 rpm, 170 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (approximate figures)
3.4L La1 V6:
185 hp @ 5200 rpm, 210 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate figures)
3.6L Hfv6 V6 (Introduced For 2007):
263 hp @ 6500 rpm, 250 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approximate figures)
0-60 Mph:
Varies by engine and drivetrain; typically 7.5 - 9.5 seconds.
Fuel Economy Est Mpg:
17-20 City / 24-28 Highway (varies by engine and drivetrain)
Injection:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Code 3.6L:
HFV6 (GM LLT in later models, but this manual covers the earlier variant)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (4T65-E VVT)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed Manual (M86) - typically for 2.4L engine, less common.
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is the specified fluid for the 4T65-E, though older manuals may list Dexron III/VI compatible. Consult the manual for precise specification.
4T65-E Approx Ratios:
1st: 2.92:1, 2nd: 1.57:1, 3rd: 1.00:1, 4th: 0.70:1, Reverse: 2.48:1 (Varies slightly with VVT)
Length:
Approx. 180.5 inches
Width:
Approx. 72.1 inches
Height:
Approx. 65.6 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 107.9 inches
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 97.3 cu ft
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 29.7 cu ft
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 69.9 cu ft
Curb Weight Est:
3500 - 3900 lbs (varies by engine and drivetrain)
Towing Capacity Est:
Up to 3,500 lbs (with V6 engine and proper trailering package)
NHTSA Front Crash Test Driver:
5-Star (2005-2007 models)
NHTSA Front Crash Test Passenger:
5-Star (2005-2007 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
5-Star (2005-2007 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
5-Star (2005-2007 models)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (2005-2007 models)
IIHS Side Impact Crash Test:
Good (2005-2007 models)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Available StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - standard on AWD models from 2008 onwards.
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, available side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio systems, auxiliary input (on later models/trims).
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Rear Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking assist sensors.
Onstar:
Available OnStar safety and communication system.
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth hands-free calling (typically on later models/higher trims).
Oil Change Interval Est:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (using synthetic or synthetic blend oil, consult manual for specific recommendation based on driving conditions).
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles.
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 30,000 - 45,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plugs:
Iridium spark plugs typically have a lifespan of 100,000 miles. Consult manual for exact replacement interval and type.
Coolant Flush:
First flush typically at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter. Use GM-specific orange coolant.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic or Synthetic Blend recommended for optimal performance and protection).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5 quarts (with filter) for V6 engines; approx. 4.5 quarts for 2.4L I4. Always verify with dipstick and manual.
Coolant Type:
GM Original Equipment (OE) Orange Long-Life Coolant (or equivalent silicate-free, extended-life coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify specific requirement in manual).
Engine Vibrations:
Some owners reported engine vibrations, potentially related to motor mounts or balancing of the V6 engines.
Transmission Performance:
Occasional reports of rough shifting or transmission hesitation, especially in earlier models. Software updates or fluid service may address some issues.
Climate Control Actuators:
Blend door actuators for the HVAC system can fail, leading to incorrect temperature or airflow distribution.
Fuel Level Sensor:
Fuel gauge inaccuracies or intermittent operation reported by some owners.
Manufacturer:
Chevrolet, a division of General Motors (GM), established in 1911.
Platform Sharing:
First-generation Equinox (2005-2009) shared its GMT365 platform with the Pontiac Torrent and second-generation Suzuki XL-7, featuring a transverse engine and front-wheel-drive bias.
Facelift:
Received a significant facelift for the 2007 model year, including updated styling, interior enhancements, and the introduction of the more powerful 3.6L V6 engine.
Manufacturing Plant:
CAMI Automotive Inc. ( Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada)
Safety Awards Early Models:
Achieved 5-star crash test ratings from NHTSA in front and side impacts for early model years (2005-2007).
Performance Awards:
While not a performance-focused vehicle, the 3.6L V6 option provided competitive power for the class.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings have varied over the years; it's advisable to consult specific model year reviews for detailed insights.
