How many filters does a Chevy Trax have?
The quick answer: most Chevy Trax models have three replaceable filters—engine oil, engine air, and cabin air. Depending on the year and market, some variants also include a fuel filter, bringing the total to four.
The exact count can vary by engine type, regional specifications, and transmission design. While the three core filters cover routine maintenance, certain markets or powertrains may introduce an additional filter, and some components may include internal filters that aren’t commonly serviced by owners.
Three standard filters in a typical Trax
Overview of the three main filters
These filters are the core components most Trax owners will encounter during regular service and maintenance.
- Engine oil filter — cleans contaminants from the engine oil as it circulates, typically replaced with an oil change.
- Engine air filter — cleans intake air before it enters the engine, located in the air intake box under the hood.
- Cabin air filter — purifies air entering the passenger compartment via the HVAC system; location varies by year and trim (often behind the glove box or under the dash).
For most drivers, these three filters comprise the standard maintenance set, with replacement intervals outlined in the vehicle’s owner manual and GM service schedules.
Optional or market-specific fuel filter
When a fuel filter appears on the Trax
In some model years and regions, a fuel filter is part of the Trax’s fuel system. The presence and serviceability of this filter depend on the engine and regional design choices. In several markets, the fuel filter is not a user-servicable item because the filter is integrated into the fuel pump module inside the fuel tank.
- Fuel filter — present on certain variants; may be a service item in some markets or may be built into the fuel pump module and not replaceable as a separate component.
Owners should consult the specific owner’s manual or a local dealer to confirm whether a fuel filter is present on their Trax and how it should be serviced.
Other filters that may be present
Internal filters you might not regularly replace
Some transmissions include an internal filter as part of their lubrication system, but this is not typically counted as a daily-service filter for the average owner. It’s generally addressed during higher-level transmission service if needed.
Always verify your exact model year and market configuration against the official documentation or a GM service technician to determine which filters apply to your vehicle.
How to verify your vehicle’s filters
To confirm which filters your Trax has and when to service them, follow these steps:
- Consult the owner’s manual or GM service bulletins for your exact model year and market.
- Inspect visible filter housings under the hood (engine oil filter and engine air filter) and behind the glove box or under the dash (cabin air filter).
- Ask a dealer or certified technician if your region uses a serviceable fuel filter and what its replacement interval is.
Verification through official documentation ensures you’re aligned with your specific Trax configuration and maintenance plan.
Summary
In conclusion, a Chevy Trax most commonly has three replaceable filters: engine oil, engine air, and cabin air. A fuel filter may be present in certain markets or model years, potentially bringing the total to four. Some configurations may include internal filters within the transmission, which are not part of routine owner maintenance. Always check your vehicle’s exact specifications in the manual or with a dealer to know precisely which filters apply to your Trax.
How many air filters does a Chevy Trax have?
two
There are two basic air filters in your 2021 Chevy Trax.
What is the most common problem with Chevy Trax?
In fact, 30% of the complaints on file with NHTSA involve the engine, powertrain, or fuel system. The complaints range from fuel injector failure to a fire in the engine compartment. Turbocharger problems are also among the common Chevrolet Trax problems.
Can I just clean my cabin air filter instead of replacing it?
Yes, you can clean a cabin air filter, especially if it's only lightly dirty or you are in a pinch between replacements, but it's not a substitute for regular replacement, as cleaning doesn't restore its original efficiency. For a deep cleaning, vacuum the filter and then rinse it with a low-pressure hose or a mild soapy water solution, making sure to let it air dry completely before reinstallation.
Cleaning a cabin air filter
- Locate and remove the filter: Check your owner's manual or online resources for the specific location, which is often behind the glove box.
- Remove loose dirt: Tap the filter to shake off large debris. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove as much loose dirt as possible.
- Clean the filter:
- Vacuum: Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to go over the filter's surface.
- Wash (for reusable filters): For a deeper clean, you can use a low-pressure hose to rinse water from the clean side to the dirty side. You can also soak it in a solution of soapy water for at least 10 minutes, then rinse it thoroughly with fresh water.
- Air dry: Allow the filter to air dry completely, preferably in the sun. Only reinstall it when it is fully dry.
- Reinstall: Place the filter back in the housing, making sure to orient it correctly according to any airflow arrows on the filter.
When to replace instead of clean
- If the filter is heavily contaminated or heavily soiled.
- If the filter is damaged or torn.
- If the filter is a paper type that is not designed to be cleaned and washed.
- If you notice reduced airflow, musty odors, or poor heating/cooling performance, it's best to replace the filter for optimal performance and air quality.
Where is the cabin air filter on a Chevy Trax?
The Chevy Trax cabin air filter is located behind the glove box. To access it, you must first lower the glove box by unhooking the dampener arm (if present) and then squeezing the sides of the glove box to release the stops, which allows it to swing down. You can then find the filter access door behind it and open the housing to replace the filter.
This video shows how to replace the cabin air filter in a Chevy Trax: 57sFilterheadsYouTube · Apr 21, 2025
Step-by-step instructions:
- Open the glove box.
- Unhook the dampener arm. On some models, there is a small arm that needs to be disconnected.
- Squeeze the sides of the glove box. Push in on both sides of the glove box to release the stops, allowing it to swing down.
- Open the filter housing. Look for a small door labeled "filter access" behind the glove box. It has clips on each side that you need to push in to open it.
- Remove the old filter. Slide out the old cabin air filter.
- Install the new filter. Insert the new filter, making sure the airflow indicator arrow points in the correct direction (usually down).
- Close the housing and glove box. Re-engage the filter housing door, partially close the glove box to re-engage the stops, and re-attach the dampener arm.
