The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV has redefined expectations among affordable electric SUVs, but a closer look reveals several persistent owner frustrations—especially with infotainment, reliability, and everyday usability.
Infotainment & Connectivity Drawbacks
- No Apple CarPlay/Android Auto:
GM’s deliberate removal of these widely used features has left owners frustrated. Many drivers relied on them for seamless integration and voice commands, and their absence is frequently cited online as a deal-breaker that sends loyal GM customers to rival brands. - Subscription Overload:
Important in-car functions—such as live traffic for Google Maps and in-car apps—are hidden behind monthly or annual fees, after an initial trial. While Google Maps is available for eight years, other digital services can cost up to $15/month after three years, which is significantly more than Tesla or BMW charge. Users resent the “nickel-and-diming” of core tech features. - Workarounds Required:
Owners report using their phone’s Wi-Fi hotspot to regain some functionality, but it’s an extra step and not what buyers expect at this price point.
Electrical and Charging Reliability
- Inconsistent Charging Experience:
Some Equinox EVs have refused to charge at home due to compatibility hiccups or equipment glitches, a critical flaw for any electric vehicle. - Public Charging Problems:
Fast-charging speeds don’t always match rated expectations, and certain cars have thrown a “cannot charge” error, requiring dealership intervention or a recall. - Hardware Recalls:
Early AWD models faced recalls for cruise control software that could result in insufficient braking, and for defects in the front electric drive module that risk total failure—necessitating complex hardware replacements.
Build Quality and Water Intrusion
- Water Leaks:
A number of owners have experienced water entering at the sunroof or A-pillar area, sometimes immediately after delivery. - Interior Assembly Issues:
Reports cite loose panels, persistent moisture, and power liftgate failures, raising concerns about GM’s manufacturing standards. - Storage Oddities:
Minimal door pocket space and impractical cupholders have caused day-to-day annoyance for some users.
Everyday Design Flaws
- Headlight & Weather Vulnerability:
Deep-cupped LED headlights can become caked in snow or slush, potentially making night or winter driving hazardous. - Dashboard Glare:
Owners in sunny climates note significant afternoon sun glare off the dash, requiring polarized sunglasses for comfort and safety. - Infotainment Annoyances:
Ongoing software hiccups (such as Spotify interruptions unless using Bluetooth) and quirks in the system’s behavior have been cited as ongoing irritations.
Owner-Validated Positives
To balance these drawbacks, drivers often highlight:
- Exceptionally smooth and low-maintenance powertrain
- Excellent one-pedal driving feel and energy recuperation
- Smart, grippy retractable door handles and a surround camera system that is genuinely helpful
The Bottom Line
While the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV offers major advances in comfort, efficiency, and feature set, buyers should seriously consider the common problems with 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV: infotainment frustrations, costly subscriptions, charging and build-quality issues, and design quirks. For some, these are minor inconveniences in an otherwise compelling EV; for others, especially tech-focused buyers, they tilt the balance toward competing models that bundle connectivity and reliability as standard.