Does a 2012 Chevy Traverse need synthetic oil?
As a car owner, understanding the type of oil your vehicle requires is crucial for maintaining its performance and longevity. The 2012 Chevy Traverse, a popular midsize SUV, has specific oil requirements that can significantly impact its engine health. In this article, we will explore whether synthetic oil is necessary for your Traverse and the benefits it may offer.
Understanding Oil Types
Motor oil is essential for lubricating the engine's moving parts, reducing friction, and preventing wear and tear. There are two primary types of motor oil: conventional and synthetic. Each has its advantages and disadvantages.
- Conventional Oil: This is derived from crude oil and is suitable for basic engine needs. It typically requires more frequent changes.
- Synthetic Oil: This is chemically engineered to provide superior performance, better temperature stability, and enhanced protection against engine wear.
Oil Requirements for the 2012 Chevy Traverse
The 2012 Chevy Traverse is designed to operate efficiently with either conventional or synthetic oil. However, the manufacturer recommends using synthetic oil for optimal performance. Here are some reasons why synthetic oil is a better choice:
- Improved Engine Protection: Synthetic oil provides better lubrication, which helps protect the engine from wear, especially under extreme conditions.
- Longer Oil Change Intervals: Synthetic oil can last longer than conventional oil, allowing for extended intervals between oil changes, which can save you time and money.
- Better Performance in Extreme Temperatures: Synthetic oil maintains its viscosity better in both high and low temperatures, ensuring your engine runs smoothly in various conditions.
Conclusion
While the 2012 Chevy Traverse can run on conventional oil, using synthetic oil is highly recommended for enhanced engine performance and longevity. If you're unsure about which oil to use or need assistance with oil changes, feel free to reach out to us at Kevin's Autos. Our experienced team is here to help you keep your vehicle in top shape!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Chevy recommend synthetic oil?
We highly recommend fully synthetic oil because it better suits your Chevy engine.
What happens if you put regular oil and not synthetic?
Ordinary oil can literally burn to form sludge which will block the oil path and eventually destroy an engine. If someone has used ordinary oil when the unsuspecting owner uses the correct oil it can loosen the sludge and block oil ways. Byebye engine!
What type of oil does a 2012 Chevy Traverse take?
Oil Grade: SEOC3
| Viscosity: | 5W-30 (All TEMPS) |
|---|---|
| Capacity: | 6 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level. |
| Torque: | 18 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug) |
| Notes: | (1) This specification has been updated from Dexos 1 Gen 2 to GM Dexos 1 Gen 3. |
Can you mix synthetic oil with regular oil?
Can You Mix Conventional Oil With Synthetic? The short answer is yes. There is no danger or risk of combustion, and mixing the two types of oil won't harm your engine. However, it's important to note that if you do mix the two, the conventional oil can keep the synthetic from performing to its fullest potential.
Does it hurt an engine to go from synthetic to regular oil?
Synthetic oils typically provide better protection than conventional oils, but switching back and forth between full synthetic and conventional oil will not damage the engine. Of course, this depends on the current engine condition and the quality of the conventional oil being used.
Why is synthetic oil not recommended?
Synthetics may be more prone to additives precipitation during cold storage conditions. This stratifies certain additives which can potentially lead to their complete separation from the oil. Multi-grade motor oils using synthetics may exhibit slightly less fuel economy at highway speeds compared to mineral oil.
What is the most common problem with a 2012 Chevy Traverse?
Faulty air conditioning is a common 2012-2015 Chevrolet Traverse problem. For example, 2012 model year owners have reported that the A/C compressor on their SUVs blew at a little over 100,000 miles. Replacing the A/C compressor cost them at least $1,000.
What kind of oil should I put in my Chevy Traverse?
Traverse requires Dexos, and it is a synthetic blend.
What oil does Chevy use from factory?
For example, one of the most common engine oils found in Chevrolet vehicles is called 5W-30. Other oil types like 10W-30 or 5W-20 are also used in some engines. You'll find the recommended rating for your car in the owner's manual.
Is there a downside to synthetic oil?
Disadvantages of synthetic oil
Synthetic oils have compatibility challenges with additives, there could be separation of additives and base oil in cold storage conditions. Multi-grade motor oils using synthetics may exhibit slightly less fuel economy at highway speeds compared to mineral oil.
