Chevrolet Equinox III (2018–2023): How to Remove the Bumpers

Production Years and Model Code

The third generation of the Chevrolet Equinox (model code GNAC) was produced from 2017 to 2023 (production ended in 2023 in the U.S., but the model remains on sale in some countries, such as China). This generation replaced the Equinox II (GM Theta), marking a transition to the more modern GM D2XX platform, which is also used by the Buick Envision and Cadillac XT4.

 

Body Types

The Equinox III was offered only in a 5-door SUV body style (compact crossover). Unlike some competitors, such as the Ford Escape or Toyota RAV4, Chevrolet did not release hybrid or plug-in versions of this generation (except for the Chinese market, where a mild hybrid has been available since 2019).

 

Model Overview

Design and Dimensions

The third generation featured a more aggressive and angular design compared to its predecessor. The grille became narrower, the headlights sharper, and the overall proportions more dynamic. The dimensions were slightly reduced: the length measured 4652 mm (compared to 4771 mm for the Equinox II), making the model more maneuverable in urban environments.

Interior and Technology

The cabin became more spacious thanks to smart packaging. A 7-inch infotainment system (MyLink) came standard, while an 8-inch system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support was available in higher trims. From 2020, wireless charging and a digital instrument cluster became optional.

Safety was improved with the following systems:

  • Forward Collision Alert
  • Lane Keep Assist
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open the hood.
  2. Under the hood, unscrew the six screws (fastened top to bottom) securing the upper part of the front bumper.
  3. From underneath, unscrew the eight screws (fastened bottom to top) securing the lower part.
  4. Turn the wheels to the side.
  5. In the wheel arches, unscrew four screws on each side securing the fender liners (front part).
  6. Move the fender liners aside and unscrew one screw on each side (fastened top to bottom) securing the corners to the fenders.
  7. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners toward yourself).
  8. (For models after 2022) Release the clips in the headlights (carefully pry with a flat tool).
  9. Release the fasteners under the hood.
  10. With an assistant, pull the bumper forward (ensure wires are not torn).
  11. Disconnect the electrical connectors.

Chevrolet Equinox III Front Bumper Mounting Locations (2018-2023)

Chevrolet Equinox III Front Bumper Mounting Diagram (2018-2023)

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, unscrew the trunk lid supports.
  3. From underneath, unscrew the four screws (fastened bottom to top) securing the lower part of the rear bumper.
  4. In the wheel arches, remove four screws on each side securing the rear part of the fender liners.
  5. Move the fender liners aside and unscrew one screw on each side (fastened bottom to top) securing the corners to the fenders.
  6. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners toward yourself).
  7. Release the clips near the taillights.
  8. Release the clips in the trunk opening.
  9. With an assistant, remove the bumper backward (ensure wires are not torn).
  10. Disconnect the electrical connectors.

Chevrolet Equinox III rear bumper mounting locations (2018-2023)

Chevrolet Equinox III Rear Bumper Mounting Diagram (2018-2023)

Engines and Transmissions

In the U.S. and Canada, the Equinox III was offered with three engines:

  • 1.5L Turbo I4 (170 hp, 203 Nm) – base engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic.
  • 2.0L Turbo I4 (252 hp, 353 Nm) – most powerful, paired with a 9-speed automatic (available with AWD).
  • 1.6L Turbodiesel I4 (136 hp, 325 Nm) – a rare option for diesel enthusiasts (2018–2019).

In Europe, the model was hardly sold, and official deliveries to Russia ended in 2022.

Chassis

The suspension featured a McPherson strut setup at the front and a multilink rear, providing a good balance between comfort and handling. The optional all-wheel-drive system operated on an on-demand (automatically engaging) basis.

 

Interesting Facts

  • Strategy Shift – In 2017, GM decided to make the Equinox smaller to avoid competition with the larger Blazer (2019).
  • Diesel Flop – The 1.6L TD engine failed to gain popularity due to high costs and emissions scandals.
  • Chinese Version – In China, the Equinox III is sold as the Chevrolet Blazer (not to be confused with the U.S. Blazer!).
  • 2021 Facelift – The updated model received a new grille, LED lighting, and improved sound insulation.

 

Conclusion

The Chevrolet Equinox III is a practical crossover with good features but no standout characteristics. It lagged behind the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5 in performance but won in affordability and reliability. In 2024, it was replaced by the fourth generation (GNAD), built on a new platform.