2025 Chevrolet Equinox Keys and Smart Key User Guide

2025 Chevrolet Equinox Keys and Smart Key Owner’s Manual

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox has a Smart Key device that lets you get in without a key, which is both convenient and safe. For added convenience and safety, the system has keyless entry, remote start, and push-button start.

2024 Chevrolet EQUINOX Specs, Price, Features, Mileage (Brochure)

Chevrolet Keys and Locks Guide

Keys

Warning
Leaving children in a vehicle with a remote key is dangerous and children or others could be seriously injured or killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or make the vehicle move. The windows will function with the remote key in the vehicle, and children or others could be caught in the path of a closing window. Do not leave children in a vehicle with a remote key.
The mechanical key inside the remote key can be used for all locks.

To remove the mechanical key, press the button on the side of the remote key, and pull the mechanical key out. Never pull
the mechanical key out without pressing the button.
If it becomes difficult to turn the mechanical key, inspect the key blade for debris.
See your dealer if a new mechanical key is needed. With an active OnStar or connected service plan, an OnStar Advisor may remotely unlock the vehicle. See OnStar Overview 3 322.

Remote Key
See Radio Frequency Statement 3 318. If there is a decrease in the remote key operating range:

• Check the distance. The remote key may be too far from the vehicle.
• Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal.
• Check the remote key’s battery. See “Battery Replacement” under Remote Key Operation 3 7.
• If the remote key is still not working correctly, see your dealer or a qualified technician for service.

Remote Key Operation
The Keyless Access system allows for vehicle entry when the remote key is within 1 m (3 ft). See “Keyless Access Operation” later in this section. The remote key functions may work up to 60 m (197 ft) away from the vehicle. Other conditions can impact the performance of the remote key. See Remote Key 3 7.

With Power Liftgate Shown, Without Similar
Press to lock all doors. The turn signal indicators may flash and/or the horn may sound on the first press to indicate locking. To view available settings for this feature from the infotainment screen, touch Settings > Vehicle Remote Lock, Unlock, Start.If the driver door is open when Q is pressed, all doors will lock and the driver door will immediately unlock. Pressing Q may also arm the alarm system. See Vehicle Alarm System 3 21.K : Press to unlock the driver door. Press K again within five seconds to unlock all doors. The remote key can be programmed to unlock all doors on the first button press. To view available settings for this feature from the infotainment screen, touch Settings > Vehicle  Remote Lock, Unlock, Start. When remotely unlocking the vehicle at night, the lights come on briefly to light your approach to the vehicle. The turn signal indicators may flash to indicate unlocking. Pressing K will disarm the alarm system. See Vehicle Alarm System 3 21.
If equipped and enabled with remote folding mirrors, press K to unfold the mirrors. Press Q to fold the mirrors. To view available settings for this feature from the infotainment screen, touch Settings > Vehicle > Comfort and Convenience. See Folding Mirrors 3 23.
If equipped and enabled with remote window operation, double press and hold K until the windows fully open. To view available settings for this feature from the infotainment screen, touch Settings > Vehicle > Remote Lock, Unlock, Start. See Power Windows 3 27.S : Double press S to start the engine from outside the vehicle using the remote key. See Remote Start 3 12.
7 : Press and release one time to initiate the vehicle locator. The exterior lamps flash and the
horn chirps three times. Press and hold 7 for three seconds to sound the panic alarm. The horn sounds and the turn signal lamps flash for
30 seconds, or until 7 is pressed again or the vehicle is started.
b : If equipped, press twice quickly to open or close the liftgate.
Press once to stop the liftgate from moving.

Keyless Access Operation
With the Keyless Access system, you can lock and unlock the doors and access the liftgate without removing the remote key from your pocket, purse, briefcase, etc. The remote key should be within 1 m (3 ft) of the liftgate or door being opened.
Keyless Access can be programmed to unlock all doors on the first lock/unlock press from the driver door. To view available settings for this feature from the infotainment screen, touch Settings > Vehicle > Remote Lock, Unlock, Start. If equipped with memory seats, remote keys 1 and 2 are linked to seating positions of memory 1 or 2. See Memory Seats 3 34.

Keyless Unlocking/Locking from the Driver Door
When the doors are locked and the remote key is within 1 m (3 ft) of the driver door handle, pressing the lock/unlock button on the driver door handle will unlock the driver door. If the lock/unlock button is pressed again within five seconds, all passenger doors will unlock.

Driver Shown, Passenger Similar
Pressing the lock/unlock button will cause all doors to lock if any of the following occur:

• It has been more than five seconds since the first lock/unlock button press.
• Two lock/unlock button presses were used to unlock all doors.
• Any vehicle door has opened and all doors are now closed.

Keyless Unlocking/Locking from Passenger Doors
When the doors are locked and the remote key is within 1 m (3 ft) of the door handle, pressing the lock/unlock button on that door handle will unlock all doors. Pressing the lock/unlock button will cause all doors to lock if either of the following occurs:

• The lock/unlock button was used to unlock all doors.
• Any vehicle door has opened and all doors are now closed.

Disable/Enable Keyless Unlocking of Exterior Door Handles and Liftgate
If equipped, keyless unlocking of the exterior door handles and liftgate can be disabled and enabled.

Disabling Keyless Unlocking
With the vehicle off, press and hold Q and K on the remote key at the same time for approximately three seconds. The turn signal lamps will flash four times quickly to indicate access is disabled. Using any exterior handle to unlock the doors or open the liftgate will cause the turn signal lamps to flash four times quickly, indicating access is disabled. If disabled, disarm the alarm system before starting the vehicle.

Enabling Keyless Unlocking
With the vehicle off, press and hold Q and K on the remote key at the same time for approximately three seconds. The turn signal lamps will flash twice quickly to indicate access is enabled. To view available settings for this feature from the infotainment screen, touch Settings Vehicle > Remote Lock, Unlock, Start.

Anti-Theft Locking from Any Door
When all doors are locked using the lock/unlock button, a second press of the button within five seconds will activate the Anti-theft Locking System.

Anti-Theft Unlocking from Any Door
When all doors are unlocked using the lock/unlock button, the Anti-theft Locking System is deactivated.

Passive Locking
With Keyless Access this vehicle will lock several seconds after all doors are closed if the vehicle is off and at least one remote key has been removed or none remains in the interior.
The fuel door will also lock. If other electronic devices interfere with the remote key signal, the vehicle may not detect the remote key inside the vehicle. If passive locking is enabled, the doors may lock with the remote key inside the vehicle. Do not leave the remote key in an unattended vehicle.
To view available settings for this feature from the infotainment screen, touch Settings Vehicle > Remote Lock, Unlock, Start.

Temporary Disable of Passive Locking
Temporarily disable passive locking by pressing and holding K on the interior door switch with a door open for at least four seconds, or until a chime is heard. Passive locking will then remain disabled until Q on the interior door is pressed, or until the vehicle is turned on.
Remote Key Left in Vehicle Alert When the vehicle is turned off and a remote key is left in the vehicle, the horn will chirp three times after all doors are closed. To view available settings for this feature from the infotainment screen, touch Settings > Vehicle Remote Lock, Unlock, Start.

Remote Removed From Vehicle Alert
If the vehicle is on, with a door open, and then all doors are closed, the vehicle will check for remote key(s) inside. If a remote key is not detected, the Driver Information Center (DIC) will display NO KEY FOUND and the horn will chirp three times. This occurs only once each time the vehicle is started. To view available settings for this feature from the infotainment screen, touch Settings Vehicle > Remote Lock, Unlock, Start.

Keyless Liftgate Opening
Press the touchpad on the liftgate handle to open the liftgate. The remote key must be within 1 m (3 ft).

Key Access
To access a vehicle with a weak remote key battery, see Door Locks 3 14.

Programming Remote Keys to the Vehicle
Only remote keys programmed to this vehicle will work. If a remote key is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased and programmed through your dealer. When the replacement remote key is programmed to this vehicle, all remaining remote keys must also be reprogrammed. Any lost or stolen remote keys will no longer work once the new remote key is programmed.

Starting the Vehicle with a Low Remote Key Battery
For improved vehicle security, the remote key is equipped with a motion sensor. When starting the vehicle, if the remote key has been idle for an extended period of time, the DIC may display KEY IN SLEEP MODE, MOVE KEY, THEN START. Move the remote key slightly and try starting the vehicle.
If the remote key battery is weak or if there is interference with the signal, the DIC may display NO KEY FOUND, REPLACE BATTERY IN KEY or NO REMOTE KEY WAS DETECTED PLACE KEY IN KEY POCKET THEN START YOUR VEHICLE when starting the vehicle.
To start the vehicle:

1. Place the remote key in the center console.
2. With the vehicle in P (Park) or N (Neutral), press the brake pedal and ENGINE START/STOP. Replace the remote key battery as soon as possible.

Battery Replacement

Warning
Never allow children to play with the remote key. The remote key contains a small battery, which can be a choking hazard. If swallowed, internal burns can occur, resulting in severe injury or death. Seek medical attention immediately if a battery is swallowed.

Warning
To avoid personal injury, do not touch metal surfaces on the remote key when it has been exposed to extreme heat. These surfaces can be hot to the touch at temperatures above 59 °C (138 °F).

Caution
When replacing the battery, do not touch any of the circuitry on the remote key. Static from your body could damage the remote key.

Caution
Always replace the battery with the correct type. Replacing the battery with an incorrect type could potentially create a risk of battery explosion. Dispose of used batteries according to instructions and local laws. Do not attempt to burn, crush, or cut the used battery, and avoid exposing the battery to environments with extremely low air pressures or high temperatures.

Caution
If the remote key is not reassembled properly, liquids could enter the housing and damage the circuitry, resulting in a remote key malfunction and/or failure. To prevent damage, always follow the steps for remote key reassembly in this manual to ensure the remote key is sealed properly whenever the remote key is opened.
Replace the battery if the DIC displays REPLACE BATTERY IN KEY.

1. Press the button on the side of the remote key near the bottom and pull the mechanical key out. Never pull the mechanical key out without pressing the button.
   
2. Separate the two halves of the remote key by using the blade of the mechanical key inserted into the bottom center of the remote key. Do not use the key slot.
   
3. Remove the old battery. Do not use a metal object.
4. Pull the seal by pulling on the tab to access the battery.
5. Remove the battery cover.
6. Insert the new battery with the positive side facing up. Replace with a CR2450 Lithium or equivalent battery.
7. Ensure that the silicone mat is correctly positioned with no gaps or wrinkles.
8. Set the transmitter button side down on a hard surface and press the other half straight down to force the halves together.
9. Reinsert the mechanical key.

Remote Start
The vehicle may have this feature that allows you to start the engine from outside the vehicle.
This button will be on the remote key if the vehicle has remote start.
The climate control system will use the previous settings during a remote start. The rear defog may come on during remote start based on cold ambient conditions. The rear defog indicator light does not come on during remote start.
If the vehicle has heated and ventilated front seats, they may come on during a remote start. See Heated and Ventilated Front Seats 3 36.
Laws in some local communities may restrict the use of remote starters. For example, some laws require a person using remote start to have the vehicle in view. Check local regulations for any requirements. Do not use the remote start feature if the vehicle is low on fuel. The vehicle could run out of fuel. Other conditions can affect the performance of the remote key. See Remote Key 3 7.

Starting the Engine Using Remote Start

1. Press and release Q on the remote key.
2. Double press S on the remote key. The turn signal lamps will flash to confirm the remote start request was received. The parking lamps will turn on and remain on as long as the engine is running.
3. Turn the ignition on before driving. The engine will shut off after 15 minutes unless a time extension is done or the ignition is turned on.

Extending Engine Run Time
For a 15-minute extension, after 30 seconds repeat Steps 1 and 2 while the engine is still running. The remote start can be extended once.
When the remote start is extended, the second 15 minutes will be added for a total of 30 minutes. A maximum of two remote starts or a start with an extension are allowed between ignition cycles.
The ignition must be turned on and then back off to use remote start again.

Cancelling a Remote Start
To shut off the engine:

• Press S. The parking lamps will turn off.
• Turn on the hazard warning flashers.
• Turn the ignition on and then off.

Conditions in Which Remote Start Will Not Work
The remote vehicle start feature will not operate if:

• A remote key is in the vehicle.
• The vehicle is on.
• The hood is not closed.
• The hazard warning flashers are on.
• There is an emission control system malfunction.
• The engine coolant temperature is too high.
• The oil pressure is low.
• Two remote vehicle starts or a start with an extension have already been used.
• The vehicle is not in P (Park).

Remote Start Ready
If the vehicle does not have the remote vehicle start feature, it may have the remote start ready feature. This feature allows your dealer to add the manufacturer’s remote vehicle start feature. See your dealer to add the manufacturer’s remote vehicle start feature to the vehicle.

Door Locks

Warning
Unlocked doors can be dangerous.

• Passengers, especially children, can easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. The doors can be unlocked and opened while the vehicle is moving. The chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash is increased if the doors are not locked. So, all passengers should wear seat belts properly and the doors should be locked whenever the vehicle is driven.
• Young children who get into unlocked vehicles may be unable to get out.
  A child can be overcome by extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Always lock the vehicle whenever leaving it.
• Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop the vehicle. Locking the doors can help prevent this from happening.

To lock or unlock the doors from the outside:

• Press Q or K on the remote key. See Remote Key Operation 3 7.
• Use the key in the driver door. The key lock cylinder is covered with a cap.

To lock or unlock the doors from the inside:

• Press Q or K on the power door lock switch.
• Push down on the door lock knob to lock a door.
• Pull the door handle once to unlock the door. Pull the handle again to unlatch it.

Keyless Access
The remote key must be within 1 m (3 ft) of the liftgate or door being opened. Press the button on the front door handle to open. See Remote Key Operation 3 7.

Driver Door Key Lock Cylinder Access (In Case of Dead Battery)
To access the driver door key lock cylinder:

1. Insert the key into the slot at the bottom of the handle by the key cylinder cover.
2. Rotate key counterclockwise and push key cylinder cover away from the handle.
3. Remove the key.

To replace the cap:

1. Insert the key into the slot at the bottom of the handle by the key cylinder cover.
2. Rotate key counterclockwise and push key cylinder cover toward the handle.
3. Check that the cap is secure. Remove the key.

Free-Turning Locks
The door key lock cylinder turns freely when either the wrong key is used, or the correct key is not fully inserted. The free-turning door lock feature prevents the lock cylinder from being forced open. To reset the lock cylinder, ensure the correct key is fully inserted into the lock cylinder. Rotate the key until you feel the lock cylinder click back into place. Remove the key and reinsert fully, then rotate the key to unlock the vehicle.

Power Door Locks

Press to lock the doors.
Press to unlock the doors.

Delayed Locking
This feature delays the actual locking of the doors until five seconds after all doors are closed. Delayed locking can only be turned on when the Open Door Anti-Lockout feature has been turned off.
When Q is pressed on the power door lock switch with the door open, a chime will sound three times indicating that delayed locking is active.
The doors will then lock automatically five seconds after all doors are closed. If a door is reopened before five seconds have elapsed, the five-second timer will reset once all the doors are closed again.
Press Q on the door lock switch again, or press Q on the remote key, to override this feature and lock the doors immediately.
Delayed locking can be programmed. To view available settings from the infotainment screen, touch Settings > Vehicle > Power Door Locks.

2024 Chevrolet EQUINOX Specs, Price, Features, Mileage (Brochure)

Automatic Door Locks
The doors will lock automatically when all doors are closed, the ignition is on, and the vehicle is shifted out of P (Park).
If a vehicle door is unlocked and then opened and closed, the doors will lock either when your foot is removed from the brake or the vehicle speed becomes faster than 13 km/h (8 mph).
To unlock the doors:

• Press K on the power door lock switch.
• Shift into P (Park).

Automatic door locking cannot be disabled. Automatic door unlocking can be programmed. To view available settings from the infotainment screen, touch Settings > Vehicle Power Door Locks.

Lockout Protection
If the ignition is on or in accessory mode and the power door lock switch is pressed with the driver door open, all the doors will lock and only the driver door will unlock.
If the vehicle is off and locking is requested while a door is open, when all doors are closed the vehicle will check for remote keys inside. If an remote key is detected and the number of remote keys inside has not reduced, the driver door will unlock and the horn will chirp three times. Lockout Protection can be manually overridden by pressing and holding Q on the power door lock switch. This does not apply to Open Door Anti-Lockout.

Open Door Anti-Lockout
If Open Door Anti-Lockout is turned on, the vehicle is off, the driver door is open, and locking is requested, all the doors will lock and only the driver door will unlock. The Open Door Anti-Lockout feature can be turned on or off. To view available settings from the infotainment screen, touch Settings > Vehicle Power Door Locks.

FAQs

Useful Links:

View Full PDF: 2024 Chevrolet EQUINOX Specs, Price, Features, Mileage (Brochure)

2025 Chevrolet Equinox Warning Lights and Indicators Guide

2025 Chevrolet Equinox Child Restraints User Guide