Regular oil changes are a crucial part of maintaining your 2022 Chevy Traverse. But after every oil change, you’ll need to reset the oil life monitoring system. For many vehicles, this is done via the infotainment touchscreen—but what if your touchscreen is malfunctioning, disabled, or simply not included in your trim level?
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to reset the oil life on a 2022 Chevy Traverse without using the touchscreen. Whether you’re a DIY car owner or an auto technician, this guide will walk you through the manual method using the instrument cluster controls.
Why You Need to Reset the Oil Life System
The oil life monitoring system in modern Chevys like the Traverse doesn’t just track mileage—it uses algorithms based on engine revolutions, temperature, and driving habits to estimate oil degradation.
Resetting it is essential after an oil change so the system can continue to monitor accurately. Failing to reset it may lead to:
- Inaccurate oil change reminders
- Engine performance issues over time
- Misleading dashboard alerts
Can You Reset Oil Life Without the Touchscreen?
Yes, you absolutely can.
The 2022 Chevy Traverse is equipped with steering wheel controls and an instrument cluster display (located behind the steering wheel), which allow you to navigate vehicle settings—including the oil life reset feature.
This is especially useful for:
- Owners with base or LS trims (no infotainment touchscreen)
- Drivers experiencing screen failure or glitches
- Mechanics who prefer quick resets
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, here’s what you need:
- A 2022 Chevy Traverse with functional ignition
- A working DIC (Driver Information Center) screen in the instrument cluster
- Steering wheel controls (left side)
- Your vehicle in Park with the ignition ON
⚠️ Warning: Do not attempt this while driving. Always put the vehicle in Park and keep your foot on the brake if the engine is running.
Step-by-Step: Reset Oil Life on 2022 Chevy Traverse Without Touchscreen
Step 1: Turn the Ignition to “On”
- This will turn on the electronics without starting the engine.
- Insert your key fob and press the Start/Stop button without pressing the brake.
Step 2: Access the Driver Information Center (DIC)
- Use the arrow buttons on the left side of the steering wheel.
- Navigate until you see the “Vehicle” tab (usually indicated by a car icon).
Step 3: Locate the “Oil Life” Menu
- Scroll down within the Vehicle tab using the down arrow.
- Stop when you reach the “Remaining Oil Life” display. It will show a percentage (e.g., 15%, 100%, etc.).
Step 4: Reset the Oil Life
- Once the “Oil Life” screen is highlighted, press and hold the checkmark or “✓” button (usually located beneath the arrow buttons).
- Hold for about 3–5 seconds.
- The system will prompt: “Are you sure you want to reset?”
- Press and hold the checkmark again to confirm.
Step 5: Confirmation
- The display should now show: “100% Remaining Oil Life”.
- This confirms the reset was successful.
Common Issues & Fixes
Touchscreen Malfunctioning?
No worries—you don’t need it at all for this process.
DIC Not Responding?
- Check if the vehicle is in “Accessory” mode or fully on.
- Make sure you’re using the left-hand controls on the steering wheel.
- If the screen is blank, it might be a fuse or electrical issue.
Can’t Find Oil Life Option?
- Make sure you’re in the “Vehicle” menu (not “Info” or “Audio”).
- If still missing, consult your vehicle’s manual or visit a dealership.
Video Guide: Manual Reset for 2022 Traverse
For a visual walkthrough, here’s a YouTube video demonstrating the oil life reset without touchscreen on a Chevy Traverse:
🎥 Watch on YouTube (external link)
Credit: Car How To / Chevy DIY Channel
Note: Always verify that the procedure matches your model year.
How Often Should You Change Oil in a 2022 Chevy Traverse?
While the oil life monitor will notify you, here are general guidelines:
| Driving Condition | Change Interval |
|---|---|
| Normal driving | Every 7,500 – 10,000 miles |
| Towing/Heavy Load Use | Every 3,000 – 5,000 miles |
| Short trips/cold weather | Every 5,000 miles |
What Type of Oil Does a 2022 Chevy Traverse Use?
- Engine: 3.6L V6
- Recommended Oil: SAE 5W-30 Full Synthetic
- Capacity: About 6 quarts (with filter)
Resetting Oil Life: FAQs
Q: What happens if I don’t reset the oil life?
A: You’ll keep receiving false alerts for oil changes and might confuse mechanics or next-time DIY servicing.
Q: Can I reset the oil life if I didn’t actually change the oil?
A: Yes, but it’s not recommended. Resetting without changing oil may lead to long-term engine wear.
Q: Can I reset oil life using a diagnostic tool?
A: Yes, if you’re using an OBD2 scanner with vehicle programming support—but it’s easier to use the manual method.
Tips for Accurate Maintenance Tracking
- Record your reset date/mileage: Keep a logbook or use an app like “myCARFAX.”
- Combine oil changes with tire rotations: Saves time and keeps your vehicle in top shape.
- Double-check with dipstick: Don’t rely only on digital sensors—manually inspect oil condition every month.
Final Thoughts
Resetting the oil life on your 2022 Chevy Traverse without the touchscreen is surprisingly simple. With just a few button presses on the steering wheel and access to the instrument cluster, you’ll have your vehicle’s maintenance tracking back on point.
Whether your screen is malfunctioning or you just want to take control of your own car maintenance, knowing how to manually reset your oil life is a valuable skill every Traverse owner should have.
References
- 2022 Chevy Traverse Owner’s Manual – Chevrolet.com
- YouTube – Car How To: “How to Reset Oil Life Chevy Traverse (No Touchscreen)”
- Edmunds – Maintenance Schedule for 2022 Chevy Traverse
- Mobil1 – Recommended Oil for Chevrolet Engines