What brand oil do Chevy dealers use?
Chevy dealers typically use Dexos1 Gen 2 motor oil, most commonly sold under the ACDelco brand.
Dexos1 Gen 2 is GM’s official specification for gasoline engines built since 2011. Using a Dexos1 Gen 2 oil helps ensure compatibility with GM engines, supports warranty requirements, and aligns with GM’s service guidelines. While ACDelco is GM’s own parts brand and frequently stocked by dealers, many service centers also carry other Dexos1 Gen 2–certified oils from major brands depending on regional supply contracts and inventory.
What Dexos1 Gen 2 means for Chevrolet engines
Dexos1 Gen 2 sets performance targets for wear protection, sludge and deposit control, oxidation stability, and compatibility with GM engine designs. It covers the recommended viscosity ranges for most GM gasoline engines, and using a Dexos1 Gen 2 oil is commonly required by GM warranty guidelines for 2011 and newer vehicles. The exact viscosity (for example, 0W-20 or 5W-30) depends on the engine and climate, as specified in the owner's manual.
Brand options you might see at Chevy service centers
Dealers typically stock oils that meet the Dexos1 Gen 2 standard; the list below shows common brands that offer Dexos1 Gen 2–certified oils. Availability can vary by region and dealer contract.
- ACDelco Dexos1 Gen 2 motor oil (GM’s own brand and most commonly used at GM dealerships)
- Mobil 1 Dexos1 Gen 2–certified motor oil
- Pennzoil Dexos1 Gen 2–certified motor oil
- Castrol Dexos1 Gen 2–certified motor oil
- Valvoline Dexos1 Gen 2–certified motor oil
In practice, the important factor is not the brand alone but that the oil meets the Dexos1 Gen 2 specification and the viscosity recommended for your engine. If you have a preference, you can ask the service advisor about the Dexos1 Gen 2 options available at that location.
What to know before an oil change at a Chevy dealer
To ensure you get the right oil for your vehicle, check these guidelines and verify with the service advisor when you book the appointment.
- Consult the owner's manual or the vehicle’s information sticker under the hood to confirm the recommended viscosity (for example, 0W-20 or 5W-30).
- Ask whether the dealership is using Dexos1 Gen 2 oils and which brand(s) are in stock for your vehicle.
- Confirm the oil filter model and whether a filter replacement is included in the service package.
- Check if any additional services are recommended for your vehicle’s mileage, such as a maintenance schedule update or a seal/engine inspection.
- Read the service summary or receipt to verify the oil specification, viscosity, and quantity used.
Using Dexos1 Gen 2 oil and the correct viscosity helps protect your engine, supports warranty coverage, and aligns with Chevrolet’s service standards.
What to expect during an oil change
Here is a typical oil-change workflow you might encounter at a Chevy dealership. The exact steps can vary by location, but the core process remains consistent across authorized service centers.
- Vehicle is brought into the service bay and pre-checked by a technician for any warning lights or leaks.
- Engine is warmed up to ensure accurate draining of old oil and efficient filtration.
- Used oil is drained from the engine and the oil pan is cleaned as needed.
- Old oil filter is removed and replaced with a new, OEM- or Dexos1 Gen 2–certified filter.
- Fresh Dexos1 Gen 2 oil is added in the recommended viscosity and quantity for the vehicle.
- Fittings, drain plug, and oil filter are checked for leaks; the maintenance reminder is reset if applicable; the vehicle is returned to the customer with a receipt and any additional recommendations.
Most dealers also perform a quick multipoint inspection and may top off other fluids or reset maintenance alerts as part of the service.
Summary
Chevy dealers rely on Dexos1 Gen 2 motor oil to meet GM’s engineering and warranty requirements. The brand used is often ACDelco Dexos1 Gen 2, though other Dexos1 Gen 2–certified oils from major brands may be stocked depending on the dealership’s contracts and region. The key factors are the Dexos1 Gen 2 certification and the correct viscosity for your engine, not the brand alone. Always confirm oil specification and viscosity with your service advisor to ensure you get the right product for your Chevrolet.
