When should you get an oil change on a 2024 Chevy Trax?
The standard oil-change interval for the 2024 Chevy Trax is typically about 7,500 miles or 12 months under normal driving, but the vehicle’s Oil Life System can require changes sooner under severe conditions; always follow the dashboard indicator and the owner’s manual.
In practice, the timing depends on how you drive and the conditions you expose the engine to. The Trax uses synthetic engine oil (Dexos1 Gen 2), commonly 0W-20, and the exact interval is guided by the vehicle’s oil-life monitoring system as well as GM’s recommended specifications. If you do a lot of short trips, drive in dusty or hot climates, or routinely haul heavy loads, the interval may be shorter. Always consult the owner’s manual and rely on the oil-life readout on the instrument cluster for the final call.
Manufacturer guidance and typical intervals
Below is a concise outline of intervals you’ll typically see, depending on driving conditions.
- Normal driving (balanced city/highway use, occasional short trips): change every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
- Severe driving (frequent short trips, dusty environments, extreme temperatures, towing or heavy loads): change every 3,000–5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
These numbers are general guidelines. The Oil Life System in the Trax will often prompt a sooner change if it detects faster oil degradation.
How to know when it's time
Understanding the indicators and recommended practices helps ensure you don’t miss a needed oil change.
- Watch the Oil Life percentage on the instrument cluster. Change oil when the life remaining is low or when the system recommends maintenance.
- Follow the maintenance schedule shown in the driver information center and the owner's manual, especially after a long service interval has elapsed.
- If you notice unusual engine noises, burning oil smells, or visible leaks, have the oil and engine checked sooner regardless of the life percentage.
For best results, use the recommended oil specification (Dexos1 Gen 2, typically 0W-20) and have the oil changed at a trusted shop or Chevrolet service center to ensure proper filtration and oil-quality standards are met.
Factors that influence timing
Driving conditions and usage
These conditions accelerate oil wear and contamination, potentially shortening the interval between changes.
- Frequent short trips where the engine doesn’t fully warm up
- Dusty or extremely hot/cold environments
- Regular towing or hauling heavy loads
- Heavy city-driven stop-and-go traffic
In such scenarios, lean toward the lower end of the interval and rely on the Oil Life System for guidance.
Oil type and engine design
The Trax typically requires Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil (often 0W-20). Using the correct oil type helps maximize protection and may support longer intervals when conditions are normal.
- Using non-recommended oil can shorten life and affect warranty coverage.
- Full synthetic oil generally supports longer change intervals than conventional oil, but always follow the system and manual guidance.
Always confirm the exact specification for your model year and engine variant in the owner’s manual or by consulting a Chevrolet service professional.
Practical maintenance tips
These steps help you stay on top of oil health between changes.
- Keep service records and receipts; note oil type, grade, and change date.
- Rely on GM-certified technicians to ensure Dexos1 Gen 2 compatibility and proper oil-filter pairing.
- Check for leaks and monitor oil level monthly, especially after long trips or an extended idle period.
Sticking to the recommended oil, following the Oil Life System, and scheduling changes with a trusted provider will help protect the engine and maintain performance.
Summary
For a 2024 Chevy Trax, you’ll typically change the oil every 7,500 miles or 12 months under normal use, with shorter intervals (3,000–5,000 miles or 6 months) if you drive in severe conditions. Rely on the Oil Life System’s guidance and the owner’s manual, and use Dexos1 Gen 2 0W-20 synthetic oil as specified. Regular monitoring and professional service at GM-certified shops ensure optimal engine health.
When should you get your first oil change on a new Chevy Trax?
7,500-Mile
7,500-Mile Service:
At the 7,500 mark, it's time for your first oil change along with a tire rotation. This is a vital part of keeping any vehicle in tip-top shape, so make sure you stay on top of your oil change schedule.
What is the maintenance schedule for a Chevy Trax?
The Chevy Trax maintenance schedule primarily follows a 7,500-mile interval for basic services like oil changes and tire rotations, which should also be performed at least twice a year. Major services are needed at specific mileage milestones, such as replacing the engine air filter at 22,500 miles, spark plugs around 97,500 miles, and flushing the cooling system at 150,000 miles.
Every 7,500 miles
- Oil and filter change: Crucial for engine health.
- Tire rotation: Ensures even wear.
- Visual inspections: Check fluid levels, brakes, and look for leaks.
- Check engine oil level: Monitor this whenever you refuel.
At 22,500 miles
- Engine air filter replacement: Clean the engine air filter.
- Cabin air filter inspection: Inspect or replace the cabin air filter.
At 30,000 miles
- Spark plug replacement: Replace spark plugs.
- Lubricate chassis components: Lubricate various chassis components.
At 45,000 miles
- Engine air filter replacement: Replace the engine air filter if it hasn't been already.
- Wiper blade replacement: Replace wiper blades.
- Inspect evaporative control system: Inspect the system for proper function.
At 60,000 miles
- Inspect drive belt and hoses: Check for wear and tear.
- Brake fluid replacement: Replace the brake fluid.
At 97,500 miles
- Spark plug replacement: This is a key service at this mileage.
- Transfer case fluid change: If you have an all-wheel-drive system.
At 150,000 miles
- Cooling system flush: Drain and fill the engine cooling system.
- Accessory drive belt inspection: Inspect the accessory drive belts for signs of damage and replace as needed.
How often should you change the oil in a Chevy Trax 2024?
7,500-mile
Despite receiving those included services, Chevrolet recommends following the service schedule as outlined in the owner's manual. They include oil changes based on your Chevrolet's Engine Oil Life System that will alert you within 600 miles of a scheduled 7,500-mile oil change interval.
How long can a Chevy Trax go without an oil change?
Recommended Oil Change Intervals for Chevrolet Vehicles
Newer Chevrolet models (2019 and newer): Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or once a year. Older Chevrolet models (2018 and older): Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or every six months.
