How much oil does a 1.2 Litre engine take?
The typical oil capacity for a 1.2-litre engine is around 3.0–3.5 litres, though turbocharged or specialized variants can require closer to 4.0 litres when the filter is replaced. Exact capacity depends on the specific engine design and whether the quantity includes the oil filter.
Understanding why the figure varies helps explain why two cars labeled “1.2 L” can have different oil needs. The term refers to displacement, but the engine’s configuration (three- versus four-cylinder, naturally aspirated versus turbocharged) and how the capacity is measured (with or without the oil filter) influence the stated requirement.
Typical capacities for common 1.2 L engines
The figures below reflect common ranges, but your vehicle’s official specification should always be used for exact filling. These numbers include the oil that fills the filter as part of a standard change.
- Naturally aspirated 1.2 L four-cylinder: typically 3.0–3.5 litres including filter
- Turbocharged 1.2 L engines (often three-cylinder): typically 3.2–3.8 litres including filter
- High-performance or newer variants: sometimes around 3.5–4.0 litres including filter
In day-to-day service, most owners see oil fill requirements that sit within the 3.0–3.5 litre band, with a few turbocharged designs at the higher end. Always confirm with the exact model and year to avoid overfilling or underfilling.
How to determine the exact capacity for your vehicle
To pin down your car’s precise oil capacity, follow these steps. The list below outlines reliable sources and practical checks you can perform.
- Consult the owner's manual or the official service data for your vehicle. Look for a section labeled Engine Oil Capacity or Specifications.
- Identify your engine code or model designation (often printed on the engine or in the vehicle documents) and search the manufacturer’s site or workshop manuals for the exact figure.
- If you’re performing an oil change, fill gradually and check the level with the dipstick after a short run and a cool-down period, stopping at the recommended mark.
- Note whether the capacity figure includes the oil filter; if you’re replacing the filter, anticipate a slight increase in the total amount required (commonly around 0.2–0.4 litres).
The exact specification is model-specific. Using the official figure helps prevent underfill, which can lead to insufficient lubrication, or overfill, which can cause foaming and potential emissions or fouling issues.
Summary
For most 1.2-litre engines, plan on roughly 3.0–3.5 litres of engine oil for a standard drain-and-fill, including the oil filter. Turbocharged or less common designs may require up to about 4.0 litres. Always verify the precise capacity from the owner’s manual or the engine code’s official data, and adjust for filter changes as needed. Regularly checking the oil level between changes helps maintain engine health.
How much oil does a 1.2 L Chevy take?
A Chevy 1.2L engine typically requires 4.2 quarts of oil with a new filter for most models like the Trailblazer and Trax, but it's crucial to check your owner's manual for the exact capacity and correct oil viscosity, which is often 0W-20 or 5W-30. For the older Spark model, the capacity is around 4.0 quarts or 3.75 liters.
For newer models (e.g., Trailblazer, Trax)
- Capacity: 4.2 quarts (with filter)
- Viscosity: 0W-20 or 5W-30, depending on the specific model and climate
- Oil Type: Synthetic motor oil is recommended
For older models (e.g., Spark)
- Capacity: Around 4.0 quarts (with filter)
- Viscosity: 5W-30 or 10W-40
Important considerations
- Always consult your owner's manual for the most accurate oil capacity and viscosity for your specific vehicle year and model.
- The oil capacity can vary slightly between models, so it's best to verify the exact amount.
How much oil does a 1.2 liter engine take?
The quantity needed to change the oil in your engine is 4,3 litres.
How much oil does a 1.2 L Trailblazer take?
The 1.2L Trailblazer engine has an oil capacity of 4.2 quarts (4.0 liters) when including the oil filter. It requires a full synthetic 0W-20 or 5W-30 oil that meets the GM dexos1 specification.
- Capacity: 4.2 quarts (4.0 liters) with a new filter.
- Oil Type: 0W-20 or 5W-30 full synthetic oil.
- Specification: Must meet GM dexos1 specifications.
- Post-change: Always check the oil level after refilling.
How many litres does a 1.2 engine hold?
It's measured in cubic centimetres (cc) and specified in litres, rounded up to the nearest tenth of a litre. So, for example, a car with a 1,190cc engine would be described as a 1.2 litre. In other words, 1.2 litres of fuel and air can be pushed through the engine's cylinders.
