Loading

How much oil does a Chevy Cruze take?

Most Chevy Cruze engines take about 4.5 quarts of oil with the filter when performing an oil change, with the exact amount depending on the engine and model year. The two most common gas engines in the Cruze are the 1.8-liter I4 and the 1.4-liter turbo, which sit in roughly the same capacity range. This article breaks down the capacities by engine to help you fill correctly.


Engine options and their oil capacity


The Cruze was marketed with two main gasoline powerplants in North America: a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter I4 and a 1.4-liter turbo. While the exact capacity can vary a touch by year and model, the general guidance places both around 4.4 to 4.5 quarts (roughly 4.2–4.3 liters) when you include the oil filter. Always confirm with your owner's manual or service manual for your specific VIN, as regional specifications or filter choices can shift the exact figure.


1.8-liter inline-four (I4)


Oil capacity for the 1.8L engine is typically around 4.4 to 4.5 quarts (about 4.2–4.3 liters) including the oil filter. Use a Dexos1 Gen 2 5W-30 oil in most markets unless your manual specifies a different grade. The precise number can vary slightly by year and the filter installed, so checking the manual remains the best practice.


1.4-liter turbo engine


The 1.4L turbo generally requires about 4.5 quarts (around 4.3 liters) of oil including the filter. This engine also commonly uses Dexos1 Gen 2 5W-30 oil, but always verify the recommended specification in your manual for your year and region.


How to verify the proper oil fill


Beyond the listed capacities, the proper approach is to add oil gradually and check the level with the dipstick or electronic gauge. Start with about 80% of the listed capacity, run the engine briefly, turn it off, wait a few minutes, and recheck. Add small increments until the level sits within the full mark on the dipstick. For most Cruze engines, you should not need more than about 4.5 quarts unless your manual specifies otherwise.


Summary


In general, the Chevy Cruze uses about 4.5 quarts of oil with a filter for its common gas engines, the 1.8L and the 1.4L turbo. Exact figures can vary slightly by year, trim, and the specific oil filter. Always consult the owner's or service manual for your VIN, use the recommended Dexos1 Gen 2 5W-30 oil, and verify the level after an oil change to ensure the engine is properly filled.

What oil does the Chevy Cruze 2014 take?


The 2014 Chevy Cruze uses 5W-30 or 0W-30 oil, with 5W-30 being the standard for most temperatures. Full synthetic oil is recommended for better engine protection and longer intervals between changes. For the 2.0L diesel engine, a 5W-30 diesel oil that meets GM Dexos2 specifications is required.
 
For gasoline engines

  • Recommended viscosity: 5W-30 for most temperatures, or 0W-30 for very cold climates. 
  • Oil type: Full synthetic is recommended to extend oil change intervals. 
  • Specification: Use a GM Dexos1 Gen 3 licensed oil. 
  • Capacity: Approximately 4.2 quarts with a filter change. 

For 2.0L diesel engines
  • Recommended viscosity: 5W-30.
  • Oil type: Full synthetic.
  • Specification: Must meet GM Dexos2 specifications.
  • Capacity: Approximately 4.8 quarts with a filter change. 



How many quarts of oil does a 2011 Chevy Cruze 1.8 take?


The 2011 Chevy Cruze 1.8L engine has an oil capacity of 4.8 quarts with a filter change, and uses 5W-30 viscosity oil. Some sources may indicate a slightly lower capacity of around 4.25 quarts, but 4.8 quarts is the more commonly cited and recommended amount for a full refill including the filter.
 

  • Capacity: 4.8 quarts (with filter). 
  • Oil type: 5W-30 (viscosity). 
  • Note: Always check the oil level with the dipstick after refilling and before starting the engine to ensure it is at the correct level.



How much oil does a 1.4 Chevy Cruze take?


A 1.4L Chevy Cruze typically takes 4.2 quarts of oil for an oil change with a filter replacement. It's recommended to use SAE 5W-30 full synthetic motor oil, but always check your owner's manual for the exact specifications for your specific model year and engine. 

  • Capacity: 4.2 quarts. 
  • Type: SAE 5W-30 full synthetic is generally recommended. 
  • Before refilling: Add about 4 quarts, start the engine for a minute, and then check the oil level with the dipstick. Top off to the full line as needed. 



How much engine oil is required for Cruze?


5 liters 5W-30 Chevrolet Cruze motor oil, oil filter, and hardware for 2.0L Diesel applications.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.