These instructions apply to the Chevrolet Trax Mk1 2013-2016.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
The Chevrolet Trax (2013–2016) came two ways: base LS/LT grades use a flip key with a cut blade and a turn ignition barrel, while higher trims add Keyless Access with a push-button start. A flat fob battery is handled differently on each, so check whether your Trax has a barrel on the column or a START/STOP button on the dash.
Start the Car When the Fob Is Dead
On the turn-key Trax the coin cell only powers the remote buttons; the immobiliser chip lives in the blade and needs no battery:
- Flip the cut blade out of the fob.
- Insert it into the ignition barrel on the column.
- Turn to crank as normal — the Trax starts.
On a Keyless Access Trax with a START/STOP button, the close-range chip still works with a flat cell. There is also a key pocket so the car can read the fob directly:
- Sit in the driver’s seat with the door shut and press the brake fully.
- Hold the fob against the START/STOP button, or place it in the console key pocket behind the cupholders.
- With the brake down, press START. The engine cranks and starts.
Unlock With the Mechanical Key
A dead fob will not unlock by radio, so use the blade.
- Flip the cut key out (turn-key cars) or release the emergency blade inside the keyless fob.
- Use it in the driver’s door lock cylinder — only that door has a barrel.
- Turn to unlock; the alarm may sound until the ignition is on.
About the Immobiliser
The Trax immobiliser checks the transponder in your key on every start, a passive read that draws no power from the coin cell. That is why the turn-key car starts fine on a dead remote and the keyless car still reads the fob held to the button. A crank-but-no-run with a security light is a key-recognition issue, not the coin cell.
Replace the Coin Cell
The Trax fob runs on a single 3V lithium CR2032.
- Flip the blade out, then split the case halves with a small flat screwdriver.
- Lift out the old CR2032 and note its orientation.
- Fit the new cell positive (+) side the same way, by the rim.
- Close the case and test the buttons beside the car.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I start my Trax with a dead fob? Yes. Turn-key cars start on the cut blade; keyless cars start by holding the fob to the button or using the console key pocket.
Which battery does the Trax fob use? A CR2032 3V lithium coin cell.
How do I tell which system my Trax has? A barrel on the column means turn-key; a START/STOP button means Keyless Access. Base LS/LT are usually turn-key.
Do I need to reprogram after a battery change? No. The coin cell only powers the remote; swapping it does not erase the key.
Where is the key pocket on a keyless Trax? In the centre console, in the tray behind the cupholders.
If a warning light stayed on after you drove off, you can decode the exact fault on our sister site autodtcs.com to check whether it relates to the key or immobiliser.
Independent guide — not affiliated with Chevrolet. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions. Read our full disclaimer.