Chevrolet Equinox I (2004-2009) How to Remove the Bumpers

Production Years and Model Code

The first-generation Chevrolet Equinox was produced from 2004 to 2009 for the North American market. The model was based on the GM Theta platform, which it shared with vehicles such as the Pontiac Torrent and Saturn Vue. The internal model designation was GMT191 (for front-wheel-drive versions) and GMT192 (for all-wheel-drive modifications).

Body Types

The Chevrolet Equinox I was offered exclusively as a 5-door SUV (crossover). Unlike many body-on-frame SUVs of the time, the Equinox had a unibody construction, making it more comfortable for urban use.

 

Model Overview

Design and Dimensions

The Equinox I featured a restrained yet modern design for its time. The car had a bold radiator grille with a large Chevrolet logo, rounded body lines, and a high seating position. The model's length was 4,795 mm, making it one of the most spacious compact crossovers in its class.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the Equinox offered a spacious cabin with a configurable rear seat (MultiFlex system). Thanks to the sliding rear seats, the driver could adjust the space between the rows, increasing either passenger comfort or cargo volume.

The base trim included:

  • Air conditioning
  • Power windows and mirrors
  • CD audio system
  • Side airbags

Higher trims offered leather seats, heated front seats, a sunroof, and an upgraded multimedia system.

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood.
  2. Under the hood, unscrew the four bolts (fastened top to bottom) that secure the upper part of the front bumper (radiator grille).
  3. From underneath, remove the seven push pins securing the lower part.
  4. Remove the two push pins in the lower grille of the bumper (inserted bottom to top).
  5. Turn the wheels to the side.
  6. In the wheel arches, detach the front part of the fender liners.
  7. Unscrew one bolt on each side (fastened bottom to top) securing the corners to the fenders.
  8. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners toward yourself).
  9. Release the clips in the headlights.
  10. With an assistant, pull the bumper forward (ensure wiring is not torn).
  11. Disconnect the fog light connectors.

Chevrolet Equinox I (2004-2009) Front Bumper Mounting Locations

Chevrolet Equinox I (2004-2009) Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

⇒Useful tips on how to remove the bumper and not break anything.⇐

  1. Open the trunk lid.
  2. Inside the trunk opening, remove two covers and unscrew the two bolts underneath that secure the upper part of the rear bumper.
  3. From underneath, remove four push pins (inserted bottom to top) securing the lower part.
  4. In the wheel arches, remove three push pins on each side securing the rear part of the fender liners.
  5. Unscrew one bolt on each side (fastened bottom to top) securing the corners to the fenders.
  6. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners downward and toward yourself).
  7. With an assistant, remove the bumper backward (ensure wiring is not torn).
  8. Disconnect any electrical connectors (if equipped).

mounting locations of the rear bumper Chevrolet Equinox I (2004-2009)

Chevrolet Equinox I Rear Bumper Mounting Diagram (2004-2009)

Technical Specifications

The Equinox I was equipped with two gasoline engines:

  • 2.4L 4-cylinder (LE5) – 169 hp, 217 N·m (2005–2009)
  • 3.4L V6 (LGD) – 185 hp, 285 N·m (2005–2007)

In 2008, the V6 was replaced with a more modern 3.6L (LY7) producing 264 hp, offering improved performance.

Transmissions:

  • 5-speed manual (only for 2.4L, rare version)
  • 5-speed automatic (5T45 for 2.4L)
  • 6-speed automatic (6T70 for 3.6L starting in 2008)

Drivetrain – Front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) with electronic control.

Chassis and Handling

The Equinox I featured an independent suspension (MacPherson struts in front, multi-link in the rear), providing a smooth ride. However, due to its soft suspension tuning, the car was not designed for serious off-roading, remaining a typical urban crossover.

 

Interesting Facts

  • The first Equinox debuted as a concept at the 2003 Detroit Auto Show, with the production version launching in 2004.
  • Canadian production – All first-gen Equinox models were assembled at GM's plant in Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada.
  • Long platform lifespan – Despite the generation change in 2009, the Theta platform was used in other GM models until 2017.
  • Rare manual version – The Equinox with the 2.4L engine and 5-speed manual was produced in limited numbers and is now considered a collector's rarity.
  • Safety – In NHTSA crash tests (2005), the Equinox received 4 stars for frontal impact and 5 stars for side impact.

 

Conclusion

The first-generation Chevrolet Equinox was a crucial model for the brand, laying the foundation for the crossover's success. It combined a spacious interior, good features, and an affordable price, making it popular in North America. While its performance and fuel efficiency may seem modest by today's standards, it was a competitive SUV for its time, helping Chevrolet strengthen its position in the compact crossover segment.