This message appears on the Driver Information Center when your Equinox detects a weak key fob battery, and it's telling you exactly how to start the vehicle anyway using a backup method built into the ignition system.
Jump to a section: What the message means · How to start your Equinox · Finding the transmitter pocket · What to do next · Quick reference table · FAQ
What the Message Means
When the vehicle can't reliably detect your key fob wirelessly due to a weak transmitter battery, the DIC displays a message like "No Remote Key Was Detected, Place Key in Transmitter Pocket Then Start Your Vehicle" as a safety feature so you're not stranded by a simple dead coin-cell battery.
Fob batteries
Energizer CR2032 3V Lithium Coin Batteries (6-Pack)
$58.66A weak fob battery is the usual cause of this message.
JOXIYECLTL CR2032 3V Lithium Button Cell Batteries (5-Pack)
$39.53A weak fob battery is the usual cause of this message.
How to Start Your Equinox
With the vehicle in Park or Neutral, place the key fob directly into the transmitter pocket, press the brake pedal, and push the Engine Start/Stop button as you normally would.
Finding the Transmitter Pocket
On most Equinox model years, the transmitter pocket is located in the center console area, often inside or near the cupholder or a small dedicated slot nearby — check your owner's manual for the exact spot on your specific model year, since placement has varied slightly across generations.
Replacement Equinox keys
Chevrolet Equinox 2022-2024 OEM 5 Button Smart Key HYQ4AS
$85.99Equinox smart keys — match FCC ID and button count. Confirm fitment by VIN before ordering.
Chevrolet Equinox Spark 2021-2024 OEM 3 Button Smart Key
$65.99Equinox smart keys — match FCC ID and button count. Confirm fitment by VIN before ordering.
Chevrolet Equinox 2018-2020 OEM 5 Button Smart Key HYQ4AA 315
$70.99Equinox smart keys — match FCC ID and button count. Confirm fitment by VIN before ordering.
What to Do Next
This backup method works, but it's a signal to replace your key fob's battery soon, since relying on it every time you start the vehicle isn't a permanent fix.
Fob covers
Key Fob Cover for Chevrolet 2022 2023 2024 for Chevy
$12.23Fob covers — match the shape and button layout of your key.
mashale XT6-HH-001 Zinc Alloy Leather Key Fob Cover
$17.65Fob covers — match the shape and button layout of your key.
Full Grain Leather Key Fob Cover for Buick GL8, Enclave
$57.43Fob covers — match the shape and button layout of your key.
Quick Reference Table
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Shift to Park or Neutral |
| 2 | Place key fob in transmitter pocket |
| 3 | Press brake pedal |
| 4 | Push Engine Start/Stop button |
| 5 | Replace fob battery soon after |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep driving this way indefinitely?
You can use it as a workaround, but a weak key fob battery should be replaced soon since some functions like remote start or keyless entry may stop working reliably.
What if the message appears even with a fresh battery?
If a new battery doesn't resolve it, the fob may need reprogramming or there could be a receiver module issue worth having diagnosed.
Does every Equinox model year have a transmitter pocket?
Yes, this backup start feature has been standard across recent generations with push-button start, though its exact physical location can vary by model year.
What battery does the key fob use?
Most Equinox key fobs use a standard CR2032 coin-cell battery, available at auto parts and electronics stores.
Shop the Parts Mentioned
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Replacement Remote Key Fob (Equinox-compatible) — a full replacement if the fob is failing beyond just the battery.
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Portable Car Jump Starter with Air Compressor — useful backup if a low 12-volt battery is compounding fob detection issues.
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ACDelco Gold Negative Battery Cable — addresses corroded connections that can affect fob detection.
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5Core USB-C Fast Charging Adapter — keeps your phone charged for roadside help if needed.