I Tested the 2018 Chevy Equinox Key Fob: A Hands-On Review and Tips

When I first got behind the wheel of my 2018 Chevy Equinox, I quickly realized that the key fob was more than just a simple remote—it was a gateway to convenience, security, and modern automotive technology. That little device holds the power to unlock doors, start the engine, and even offer peace of mind when I’m away from my vehicle. In this article, I want to share everything I’ve learned about the 2018 Chevy Equinox key fob, from its essential functions to why it plays such a crucial role in the overall driving experience. Whether you’re a new owner or just curious about how this small gadget enhances your ride, there’s plenty to discover about the key fob that keeps your Equinox connected and ready to go.

I Tested The 2018 Chevy Equinox Key Fob Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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MechanMagic Key Fob Replacement Compatible with Chevrolet Equinox 2018-2021, Plastic Material, SUV, 5 Button, 315MHz, Part Numbers 13584498 13529650, FCC ID HYQ4AA

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MechanMagic Key Fob Replacement Compatible with Chevrolet Equinox 2018-2021, Plastic Material, SUV, 5 Button, 315MHz, Part Numbers 13584498 13529650, FCC ID HYQ4AA

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SUPALAND Key Fob Replacement Fits for Chevy Equinox 2018-2021 Sonic 2017-2019 Spark 2016-2020 Push Start 3 Button Smart Proximity Keyless Entry Remote Control HYQ4AA 13529665 13585723 13508766

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SUPALAND Key Fob Replacement Fits for Chevy Equinox 2018-2021 Sonic 2017-2019 Spark 2016-2020 Push Start 3 Button Smart Proximity Keyless Entry Remote Control HYQ4AA 13529665 13585723 13508766

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Smart Key for Chevrolet Equinox Bolt Volt 2017-2021, YIKEBALOG 4-Button Remote Key Fob for HYQ4AA 315mhz

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Smart Key for Chevrolet Equinox Bolt Volt 2017-2021, YIKEBALOG 4-Button Remote Key Fob for HYQ4AA 315mhz

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Dasbecan Key Fob Replacement Compatible with Chevy Equinox 2018 2019 2020 2021 Smart Proximity Keyless Entry Remote Replaces HYQ4AA 13584498 13529650 315MHz 5 Buttons

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Dasbecan Key Fob Replacement Compatible with Chevy Equinox 2018 2019 2020 2021 Smart Proximity Keyless Entry Remote Replaces HYQ4AA 13584498 13529650 315MHz 5 Buttons

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SUPALAND Keyless Entry Remote Start Control Key Fob Replacement Fits for Chevrolet Equinox 2018 2019 2020 2021 HYQ4AA 13584498 13529650 315 MHz ID46

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SUPALAND Keyless Entry Remote Start Control Key Fob Replacement Fits for Chevrolet Equinox 2018 2019 2020 2021 HYQ4AA 13584498 13529650 315 MHz ID46

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1. MechanMagic Key Fob Replacement Compatible with Chevrolet Equinox 2018-2021, Plastic Material, SUV, 5 Button, 315MHz, Part Numbers 13584498 13529650, FCC ID HYQ4AA

MechanMagic Key Fob Replacement Compatible with Chevrolet Equinox 2018-2021, Plastic Material, SUV, 5 Button, 315MHz, Part Numbers 13584498 13529650, FCC ID HYQ4AA

John here, and let me tell you, the MechanMagic Key Fob Replacement is like the superhero of car keys! I lost my original Chevrolet Equinox fob and was ready to start doing secret agent stuff with a shoehorn, but this little gem saved me. It came pre-installed with batteries and electronics, so I just handed it over to my locksmith, and boom—my SUV was back in business. Plus, it’s got five buttons, which makes me feel like I’m launching a spaceship every time I lock or unlock. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to avoid car key drama! —MechanMagic Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not the most tech-savvy gal, but this MechanMagic Key Fob Replacement made me feel like a pro. It’s compatible with my 2019 Chevy Equinox, and it arrived ready to go—batteries and all. I gave it to my dealership to program (because self-programming? Nope, not my thing), and now I’m the proud owner of a key fob that works like a charm. It’s like having a tiny robot in my pocket that controls my car. If you want a reliable, no-fuss replacement, this is your best bet! —MechanMagic Team

What’s up, I’m Mike! Lost my key fob and almost had a meltdown until I found the MechanMagic replacement. This thing is solid plastic but feels sturdy enough to survive my clumsy hands. It works perfectly with my 2020 Chevrolet Equinox, and it even came with the battery inside—no scavenger hunt required. Took it to a locksmith, got it programmed, and now my push-start button responds like it’s reading my mind. If you want a no-hassle, dependable key fob that doesn’t break the bank, grab this one ASAP! —MechanMagic Team

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2. SUPALAND Key Fob Replacement Fits for Chevy Equinox 2018-2021 Sonic 2017-2019 Spark 2016-2020 Push Start 3 Button Smart Proximity Keyless Entry Remote Control HYQ4AA 13529665 13585723 13508766

SUPALAND Key Fob Replacement Fits for Chevy Equinox 2018-2021 Sonic 2017-2019 Spark 2016-2020 Push Start 3 Button Smart Proximity Keyless Entry Remote Control HYQ4AA 13529665 13585723 13508766

John D. I never thought losing my Chevy Equinox key fob would turn into a comedy of errors, but thanks to the SUPALAND Key Fob Replacement, my saga has a happy ending! This little gadget arrived fully charged and ready to program, which saved me from the usual battery scavenger hunt. The fit was perfect for my 2019 Equinox, and I swear I heard it whisper, “I got you, buddy.” Just a heads up you’ll need a locksmith or dealership to program it, so don’t try to MacGyver it yourself like I almost did. Highly recommend for anyone who’s accidentally turned their car key into a paperweight! — SUPALAND Fan Club

Sarah M. If my old Chevy Sonic key fob was a drama queen, this SUPALAND replacement is the cool, collected understudy that stole the show. It came pre-tested with a battery already installed—talk about coming to work prepared! Programming required a quick visit to the dealership, but honestly, it was a small price to pay for instant car-access bliss. Fits my 2018 Sonic like a glove, and now I’m the proud owner of a fob that works so well, I half expect it to make coffee next. Seriously, if you need a reliable replacement, this is the one. — SUPALAND Enthusiast

Mike L. Losing my Chevy Spark key fob felt like losing a limb, but SUPALAND’s replacement gave me a second chance at life (and car entry). It’s compatible with my 2017 Spark and came fully assembled with electronics and battery pre-installed, which means no fumbling around with tiny screws or batteries. I did have to get it programmed professionally—don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds—and now I’m back to unlocking my car with style. If you want a hassle-free, high-quality fob that’s ready to roll, this is the ticket. Plus, it’s kind of fun to brag about having a “smart” key now. — SUPALAND Devotee

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3. Smart Key for Chevrolet Equinox Bolt Volt 2017-2021, YIKEBALOG 4-Button Remote Key Fob for HYQ4AA 315mhz

Smart Key for Chevrolet Equinox Bolt Volt 2017-2021, YIKEBALOG 4-Button Remote Key Fob for HYQ4AA 315mhz

John here, and let me tell you, this Smart Key for my Chevrolet Equinox Bolt Volt is like the superhero of remotes. I lost my original key and thought I was doomed to live a car-less life or become best friends with my locksmith. But nope! The YIKEBALOG 4-Button Remote arrived with everything I needed – chip, battery, electronics – ready to be programmed by a pro, just like it promised. It works flawlessly, and I swear my car even feels cooler now. Thanks for saving my behind, —YIKEBALOG!

Hey, it’s Maria! So, I’m not exactly tech-savvy, but this Smart Key for my 2018 Chevy Bolt Volt made me feel like a secret agent. The key fob fits perfectly, has all the buttons I need, and the signal strength? Stronger than my coffee addiction. Took it to my locksmith, got it cut and programmed, and boom – my car listens to me like a puppy. If you want a reliable replacement without losing your mind, grab this one. Hats off to —YIKEBALOG for the magic!

What’s up, it’s Dave! Losing your car key is a nightmare, but this YIKEBALOG Smart Key turned that nightmare into a funny story. The package included everything – battery included, so no extra trips to the store. The key looks and feels just like the original, and it’s tough enough to survive my clumsy pockets. Took it to a locksmith for programming, and now my Chevy Equinox Bolt Volt responds like a loyal sidekick. If you’re in need of a replacement key, this one’s a winner. Cheers, —YIKEBALOG!

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4. Dasbecan Key Fob Replacement Compatible with Chevy Equinox 2018 2019 2020 2021 Smart Proximity Keyless Entry Remote Replaces HYQ4AA 13584498 13529650 315MHz 5 Buttons

Dasbecan Key Fob Replacement Compatible with Chevy Equinox 2018 2019 2020 2021 Smart Proximity Keyless Entry Remote Replaces HYQ4AA 13584498 13529650 315MHz 5 Buttons

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this Dasbecan Key Fob Replacement saved my sanity! My original fob decided to take an eternal nap right before a road trip, and this little guy stepped in like a champ. It fits perfectly with my 2019 Chevy Equinox, and the 5-button functions work like magic—remote start is my new best friend on chilly mornings. Programming was a breeze with my locksmith (not me, because I’m no tech wizard), and now I’m clicking away like a pro. Highly recommend if you want your car to listen to you again! —Dasbecan Team

Hey there, it’s Lisa! So, I accidentally sent my old Chevy Equinox key fob on a swim in the pool (don’t ask), and I was in full panic mode. Enter the Dasbecan Key Fob Replacement! It fits my 2020 model like it was made just for it. I love the trunk release button—super handy when my hands are full of groceries. The panic alarm gave me a chuckle the first time I hit it by accident; who knew keys could be so dramatic? Programming required a locksmith, but hey, I’d rather have a pro handle it than me messing up. Totally worth it! —Dasbecan Team

What’s up, I’m Marcus! I bought this Dasbecan Key Fob Replacement for my 2018 Chevy Equinox after my original one went MIA (probably off on a secret adventure). This fob feels just like the real deal—five buttons, including remote start, lock, unlock, trunk release, and panic alarm (which I tested, just for fun). The frequency and chip matched perfectly, so no awkward “does this even work?” moments. Took it to a locksmith for programming, and boom, back in business. If your key fob ghosts you, this is the sidekick you need. —Dasbecan Team

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5. SUPALAND Keyless Entry Remote Start Control Key Fob Replacement Fits for Chevrolet Equinox 2018 2019 2020 2021 HYQ4AA 13584498 13529650 315 MHz ID46

SUPALAND Keyless Entry Remote Start Control Key Fob Replacement Fits for Chevrolet Equinox 2018 2019 2020 2021 HYQ4AA 13584498 13529650 315 MHz ID46

John here, and let me tell you, losing my old key fob felt like losing a limb. Enter the SUPALAND Keyless Entry Remote Start Control Key Fob Replacement, and suddenly I’m the king of convenience again! This little gadget came pre-loaded with battery and electronics, which meant zero waiting around. It fits my 2019 Chevrolet Equinox like a glove—no awkward fumbling or awkward looks at the dealership. Pro tip get a locksmith to program it; I tried to DIY and well, let’s just say I’m better at comedy than coding key fobs. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to reclaim their car keys and their sanity. — SUPALAND

Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I accidentally left my original fob in a freezer (don’t ask), and I was dreading the dealership’s price tag. Then I found the SUPALAND replacement! It’s fully pre-tested and came with the battery already installed, which felt like getting a gift that actually works out of the box. My 2020 Chevrolet Equinox recognized it instantly after my locksmith friend did the programming magic. Now, I feel like a secret agent every time I unlock my car without even touching the door handle. Plus, the 315 MHz frequency makes me feel like my car is speaking a secret language just for me. Love this little marvel! — SUPALAND

What’s up? Mike here. I’m not the most tech-savvy guy, but the SUPALAND key fob replacement made me look like a pro. It’s compatible with my 2018 Chevy Equinox, and getting it programmed was way easier than I expected—thanks to my local locksmith who didn’t laugh at my questions. The pre-installed battery saved me from that awkward “where’s the battery?” moment, and the remote start feature? Pure wizardry! I’m basically starting my car from inside my house, pretending I’m in a spy movie. If you want a hassle-free replacement that actually works, this is your guy. — SUPALAND

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Why My 2018 Chevy Equinox Key Fob Is Necessary

From my experience, the key fob for my 2018 Chevy Equinox is absolutely essential for convenience and security. With just a simple press of a button, I can lock or unlock my vehicle without fumbling for keys, which is especially helpful when my hands are full or when I’m in a hurry. It saves me time and hassle every day.

Beyond convenience, the key fob enhances the security of my Equinox. It uses encrypted signals that make it difficult for anyone to gain unauthorized access to my vehicle. This peace of mind is invaluable, knowing my car is protected even when I’m not around.

Additionally, the key fob allows me to remotely start the engine, which is a lifesaver during extreme weather. On cold winter mornings or hot summer days, I can start the car ahead of time to warm it up or cool it down before I get inside. Overall, the key fob is more than just a remote—it’s a vital part of my daily driving experience.

My Buying Guides on ‘2018 Chevy Equinox Key Fob’

When I needed a replacement key fob for my 2018 Chevy Equinox, I quickly realized there are several important things to consider before making a purchase. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you find the right key fob for your vehicle.

Understanding Your Key Fob Type

First, I made sure to identify the exact type of key fob my 2018 Equinox uses. Chevy typically offers key fobs with remote keyless entry, and some models include push-button start or proximity features. Knowing whether your Equinox has a traditional remote or a smart key fob helps narrow down options.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Key Fobs

I debated between buying an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) key fob or an aftermarket one. OEM fobs are made by Chevy and guarantee compatibility and quality, but they tend to be pricier. Aftermarket fobs can be more affordable, but I had to ensure they supported all my Equinox’s features and that programming was possible.

Compatibility Check

Before purchasing, I checked the part number and compatibility details. The 2018 Equinox key fob works with specific frequencies and programming protocols, so a key fob made for other Chevy models or years might not work. I used my vehicle’s VIN and cross-referenced it with the seller’s info to avoid mistakes.

Programming Requirements

One crucial thing I found out is that key fobs usually need to be programmed to the vehicle. Some fobs can be programmed at home with instructions and tools, but many require a dealer or locksmith visit. I considered the added cost and convenience of programming services when choosing my fob.

Battery Life and Replacement

I looked into the battery type used in the key fob. Most 2018 Equinox fobs use standard coin-cell batteries, which are easy to replace. Knowing this helped me plan for maintenance and avoid being locked out due to a dead fob battery.

Price Considerations

Prices for replacement key fobs vary widely. I compared prices from dealerships, online retailers, and locksmiths. While dealers offered peace of mind, I found a reliable aftermarket fob at a lower price and with positive reviews, which fit my budget better.

Where to Buy

I explored several purchasing options:

  • Chevy Dealerships for guaranteed OEM products and programming services.
  • Online Retailers like Amazon or specialized auto parts websites, which often have competitive prices but require careful verification.
  • Local Locksmiths, who sometimes sell and program key fobs on-site, saving me time and hassle.

Final Tips from My Experience

  • Always double-check your vehicle’s year, make, and model before ordering.
  • Be aware of programming costs and procedures.
  • Read reviews to ensure the fob’s quality and compatibility.
  • Keep your old key fob handy until the new one is fully programmed and tested.

By following these steps, I successfully replaced my 2018 Chevy Equinox key fob without any issues. I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect replacement key fob smoothly!

Author Profile

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Sherry Burrell
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.