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What brand of motor oil does GM use?

General Motors (GM) uses its own brand of motor oil, called Dexos, in its vehicles. Dexos is a proprietary motor oil formulation developed by GM to meet the specific lubrication requirements of its engines.


Dexos Motor Oil


Dexos is GM's recommended motor oil for its vehicles. It is a synthetic blend oil that is designed to provide superior engine protection, fuel efficiency, and extended oil change intervals. Dexos is available in different grades, such as Dexos1 and Dexos2, to meet the specific requirements of different GM engine types.



  • Dexos1: Formulated for GM gasoline engines, including those found in Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac vehicles.

  • Dexos2: Designed for GM diesel engines, such as those used in Chevrolet and GMC trucks and SUVs.


GM requires the use of Dexos-certified motor oils in its vehicles to maintain the manufacturer's warranty and ensure optimal engine performance and longevity.


Why GM Developed Dexos


GM developed the Dexos motor oil specification to address the evolving needs of its modern engine designs. As engines have become more advanced, with features like turbochargers, direct injection, and variable valve timing, the lubrication requirements have become more complex. Dexos is formulated to meet these demands and provide enhanced protection against wear, sludge buildup, and other issues that can arise in high-performance engines.


By using its own proprietary motor oil, GM can ensure that its vehicles receive the exact lubrication they require, which helps to extend engine life and maintain optimal fuel efficiency.

What kind of oil does a GM engine take?


GM Dexos approved oils are recommended to be used in all GM vehicles except those built with Duramax diesel engines that require an API CJ-4 quality oil. Designed with gasoline engines in mind GM Dexos 1 replaces the GM-LL-A-025, GM6094M and GM4718M specifications.



What oil does Chevy use from the factory?


Specifically, SAE 0W-20 or SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil is commonly used, depending on the engine type and model year.



What synthetic oil does GM use?


Licensed dexos1 Gen 2 brands

Brand NameSupplierSpecification
ACDELCO FULLY SYNTHETIC ENGINE OILGeneral Motorsdexos™1 Gen3
ACDELCO FULLY SYNTHETIC ENGINE OILExxonMobildexos™1 Gen3
ACDELCO FULLY SYNTHETIC ENGINE OILExxonMobildexos™1 Gen3
ACDelco Long Life Synthetic dexos1 Gen3ExxonMobildexos™1 Gen3



What brand of oil do GM dealers use?


Mobil 1
If your dealership is doing your oil change correctly with oil approved by GM and charging you appropriately, they're using Mobil 1 0W-40 Supercar.



Who makes oil for ACDelco?


I'm very certain that most GM owners know that ACDelco motor oil is made by ExxonMobil.



What oil brands are DEXOS approved?


Licensed dexos1 Gen 2 brands

Brand NameSupplierSpecification
SK Lubricantsdexos™1 Gen3
ACCURATE FULL SYN dexos1 SAE 0W20Vesco Oil Corporationdexos™1 Gen3
ACCURATE FULL SYN dexos1 SAE 5W30Vesco Oil Corporationdexos™1 Gen3
ACDelco (dexos1 Gen3 0W-20)General Motorsdexos™1 Gen3



Is DEXOS better than full synthetic oil?


Dexos® oils are formulated exclusively with synthetics or synthetic blends. Better antioxidant technology that keeps oil from oxidizing. Dexos® oils generally have a drain interval of up to 15,000 miles. Lower viscosity that holds up to engine combustion and heat better and longer than other oils on the market.



What is the OEM brand for Chevy?


GM Genuine Parts
GM Genuine Parts and ACDelco OE parts are the true original equipment for your Chevrolet.



Do I really need to use Dexos oil?


Yes, you absolutely need Dexos-approved synthetic oil in your 2.5L engine. Do not put conventional oil in your car.



Who makes GM's motor oil?


ExxonMobil on September 10 signed an agreement to continue as the lubricants supplier for the U.S. General Motors' dealer network for the next five years. In addition, ExxonMobil announced that a number of its key products, including Mobil 1, are now officially dexos licensed worldwide.


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.