2022 Chevrolet Equinox Key Fob Programming

Quick reference

Step-by-step on-board programming

Good news: If you have at least one working key fob for your 2022 Chevrolet Equinox, you can program a new fob yourself without any special tools. This procedure is known as the "add-a-key" method. If you have lost all your keys, you will need to see a dealer or locksmith with a scan tool to program a new key.

Here’s how to program a new fob:

1. Go to the vehicle with your working fob and the new, unprogrammed fob.
2. Place the working fob in the center console pocket. The pocket is located under the armrest.
3. Turn the vehicle to the "On" or "Run" position, but do not start the engine.
4. Within five seconds, press and hold the "Unlock" button on the working fob for two seconds.
5. The Driver Information Center (DIC) will display a message indicating that it is ready for the next fob.
6. Remove the working fob from the console pocket and place the new, unprogrammed fob in the same pocket.
7. The DIC will display a message that it is programming the new fob. This may take a few seconds.
8. Once the programming is complete, the DIC will show a message confirming that the new fob is ready. The new fob should now be programmed and ready to use.
9. Test the new fob by pressing the lock, unlock, and remote start buttons to ensure they are all working correctly.

Battery replacement

Replacing the battery in your 2022 Equinox key fob is a simple task you can do at home. The fob uses a common CR2032 battery, which is available at most electronics stores, supermarkets, and online.

To replace the battery:

1. Locate the small release button on the side of the fob.
2. Press the button to release the emergency key from the fob.
3. Use the emergency key or a small flathead screwdriver to gently pry the two halves of the fob apart. There is a small slot at the top of the fob where the key was.
4. Once the fob is open, you will see the green circuit board and the battery.
5. Carefully remove the old battery, paying attention to the orientation of the positive and negative terminals.
6. Insert the new CR2032 battery, making sure it is in the same orientation as the old one.
7. Snap the two halves of the fob back together.
8. Reinsert the emergency key.

Where to buy a replacement fob

• Dealer: The most expensive option, but you are guaranteed to get a genuine OEM fob. Expect to pay around $150-$250 for the fob itself, plus another $50-$100 for programming if you can't do it yourself.
• Locksmith: A good middle-ground option. A professional locksmith can provide you with a high-quality aftermarket or OEM fob and program it for you. This is often cheaper than the dealer, with prices ranging from $100-$200 for the fob and programming.
• Amazon/eBay: The cheapest option, but also the riskiest. You can find fobs for as little as $20-$50, but you need to be careful to buy from a reputable seller and ensure that the FCC ID matches your existing fob. There is a risk of getting a low-quality or incorrect fob that won't work with your vehicle.

If on-board programming isn't supported

If you have lost all your keys for your 2022 Equinox, you will not be able to use the on-board programming procedure. This is because the vehicle's immobilizer system requires at least one working key to authorize the programming of a new key. In this situation, you will need to have your vehicle towed to a dealership or call a mobile locksmith.

A dealer or locksmith will use a specialized scan tool to communicate with your vehicle's computer and program the new key. This process also involves cutting the emergency key blade to match your vehicle's locks. The cost for this service can vary, but you can expect to pay between $200 and $400 for a new key and programming.

The immobilizer system in your Equinox is a crucial security feature that prevents your vehicle from being started without a properly programmed key. Each key contains a transponder chip that communicates with the vehicle's computer. If the computer doesn't recognize the transponder, it will not allow the engine to start.

Find a mobile locksmith or shop on Repairius.