The 2019 Chevy Trax uses a cartridge-style oil filter housed in a small engine compartment canister, not a traditional spin-on filter. You replace the internal cartridge during oil service rather than swapping a full external canister.
Engine and filter design
In 2019, most Trax models sold in North America were equipped with the 1.4-liter turbocharged Ecotec engine. This engine uses a cartridge-type oil filter assembly mounted to the engine. Access to the cartridge is via a housing cap; you remove the cap, replace the filter element inside, and reseal the housing. This design keeps the filter element contained inside a dedicated housing rather than outside in a screw-on canister.
Where the filter is located
The cartridge-style oil filter for the Trax is typically found integrated into a small housing on the engine. The exact location can vary slightly by production date and market, but it is generally accessible from the top or side of the engine bay with a cap you unscrew to swap the cartridge inside.
How to service the cartridge oil filter
If you’re performing an oil change, you’ll service both the engine oil and the cartridge filter. Below are general steps to follow. Always consult the owner's manual or a repair guide for the precise procedure and torque specs for your vehicle.
Before you start the replacement, gather the right parts and tools. Use a cartridge oil filter kit designed for the 1.4L Ecotec engine (GM Genuine Parts or an approved equivalent) and the recommended oil type.
- Warm the engine briefly, then park on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
- Place a drain pan beneath the oil pan and remove the drain plug to drain the used engine oil (if you’re performing an oil change).
- Remove the oil filler cap to vent the system.
- Uncap the oil filter housing (you may need a special cap tool or socket designed for the housing).
- Remove the old cartridge filter element from the housing.
- Install the new cartridge filter into the housing, ensuring the O-ring or seal is properly seated and lubricated if required.
- Reinstall and torque the housing cap to the manufacturer’s specification.
- Refill the engine with the correct amount and grade of oil as indicated in the owner’s manual.
- Start the engine, check for leaks, and recheck the oil level after a few minutes of running and cooling.
The above steps are a general guide for cartridge-filter service and oil changes. Your exact procedure may vary by model year, market, or engine variant, so refer to the service manual for precise instructions and torque values.
Parts, compatibility, and where to buy
For a 2019 Trax with the 1.4L turbo engine, use a cartridge-type oil filter designed for GM Ecotec engines. You can source this from GM Genuine Parts or equivalent aftermarket brands such as ACDelco, ensuring compatibility with the 1.4L engine code in your vehicle. If you’re unsure which cartridge to buy, use your VIN or consult a parts diagram for your specific vehicle configuration.
Note: Part numbers can vary by market and production batch. Always verify the exact part number and oil specification with the dealer, parts retailer, or in the official GM parts catalog before purchasing.
Maintenance note and driving considerations
Cartridge-type filters require the same regular maintenance as spin-on filters: follow GM’s recommended oil-change interval for your driving conditions. In normal conditions, 5,000–7,500 miles (or the interval specified by GM for your vehicle) is typical when using synthetic oil; more frequent changes may be advised for severe service or extreme temperatures. Always check the oil level after servicing and reset any maintenance reminders as needed.
What this means for Trax owners
For 2019 Trax owners, the key takeaway is that oil service involves replacing a cartridge filter inside a housing rather than a cat-like external canister. This design emphasizes keeping the filter element inside a dedicated sleeve, which can aid in filtration efficiency and future service accessibility. Always use OEM-recommended or compatible cartridge filters and the correct oil type for your engine to maintain performance and warranty coverage.
Summary
The 2019 Chevy Trax uses a cartridge-style oil filter housed in a dedicated filter housing rather than a traditional spin-on filter. During an oil change, replace the cartridge element inside the housing, using GM Genuine Parts or equivalent, and follow the vehicle’s recommended oil type and change interval. Check your manual or consult a dealer for the exact part number and procedure for your market and engine variant.