2019 Chevrolet Trax Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2019 Chevrolet Trax: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2019 Chevrolet Trax has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2019 Chevrolet Trax has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2019 Chevrolet Trax?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2019 Chevrolet Trax, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the underlying issue effectively. Start with the simplest solution by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. Next, take a moment to inspect your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that might provide further insight into the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step in this process, as it allows you to retrieve specific error codes that can guide you toward the exact issue. Additionally, examining the condition of your spark plugs is vital, as worn or faulty plugs can also activate the check engine light. Don't forget to check the levels of essential fluids like oil and coolant, as low levels can lead to engine complications. If these initial steps do not resolve the issue or if you're uncertain about the findings, consulting a qualified mechanic for a comprehensive diagnosis is advisable. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently troubleshoot the check engine light and potentially save on costly repairs.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2019 Chevrolet Trax?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2019 Chevrolet Trax, it can be a source of concern for any DIY car owner. One of the most straightforward issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, so ensuring it is secure is a good first step. If the gas cap is fine, consider inspecting the oxygen sensor, as a faulty one can lead to poor fuel efficiency and may require replacement. Another common culprit is the catalytic converter, which can fail or become inefficient, causing the light to illuminate. Additionally, worn-out spark plugs can affect engine performance, leading to misfires that trigger the check engine light. The mass airflow sensor is also critical; if it malfunctions, it can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, resulting in the light turning on. Lastly, issues with the ignition coil can cause misfiring and rough idling, while an overall engine misfire can stem from various factors, including bad spark plugs or ignition coils. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to prevent further damage and maintain optimal vehicle performance. If you're unable to diagnose the problem yourself, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable to ensure the issue is accurately identified and resolved.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2019 Chevrolet Trax?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2019 Chevrolet Trax, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals potential issues within your engine or emissions system that could escalate if left unaddressed. Ignoring this alert can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and even severe engine damage, which can result in costly repairs. Moreover, some underlying problems may pose safety risks, such as compromised braking or steering systems. For DIY enthusiasts, while it may be tempting to delay action or attempt a quick fix, it is crucial to prioritize a thorough diagnosis. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner can help identify error codes, but understanding the implications of these codes is vital. Addressing the check engine light promptly not only helps maintain your vehicle's performance and safety but also saves you from potential headaches down the road. Therefore, if you see that light, take it seriously and act swiftly to ensure your Chevrolet Trax remains in optimal condition.

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