What is the best oil for a 2016 Chevy Trax?
The best oil for a 2016 Chevy Trax is a Dexos1 Gen 2 certified engine oil with the viscosity specified by GM for your climate—most commonly 5W-30, with 0W-20 suitable in colder environments if approved by GM. Always use Dexos1 Gen 2 certified oil and follow the viscosity listed in your owner's manual.
Understanding GM’s oil specification
General Motors requires oils that meet the Dexos1 Gen 2 specification to ensure proper protection and warranty coverage for the Trax’s engine. Oils that don’t carry this certification may not meet GM’s standards and could affect performance or warranty. The exact viscosity recommended can vary by climate and driving conditions, so reference the owner’s manual or ask a dealer for confirmation.
Viscosity choices for the 1.4L Turbo Trax
The Trax’s 1.4L turbo engine is designed to operate with lubrication that balances cold starts and high-temperature operation. Depending on the environment, GM commonly approves two main viscosities: a 5W-30 oil for most conditions and a 0W-20 oil for very cold climates or specific calibrations. Always verify the exact viscosity in the vehicle’s manual.
Recommended oil types (Dexos1 Gen 2 certified)
Below are the most commonly approved oil types for the 2016 Trax when following GM’s Dexos1 Gen 2 standard.
- Dexos1 Gen 2 certified full-synthetic 5W-30 oil (suitable for most climates and driving conditions).
- Dexos1 Gen 2 certified full-synthetic 0W-20 oil (preferred in very cold climates or when GM specifies this viscosity).
- Dexos1 Gen 2 certified synthetic blend 5W-30 (acceptable if a full synthetic isn’t available but still meets Dexos1 Gen 2).
Choosing a Dexos1 Gen 2 oil ensures compatibility with GM engines and helps maintain warranty coverage while providing optimal protection for the turbocharged engine.
Practical tips for buying and using oil
Before you shop, keep these guidelines in mind to ensure you select the right product and maintain your warranty coverage.
- Look for the Dexos1 Gen 2 certification on the bottle to confirm compatibility with GM engines.
- Choose the viscosity specified in your owner's manual, typically 5W-30 or 0W-20 depending on climate and conditions.
- Prefer synthetic or synthetic-blend oils for a turbocharged engine, which offer better protection and longer service life.
- Remember to pair the oil with a compatible filter and follow the recommended oil-change interval as outlined in the manual.
These steps help ensure reliable performance and help protect the engine across seasons and driving conditions.
Maintenance intervals and practical considerations
GM’s maintenance schedule for Dexos1 Gen 2 oils generally allows longer intervals when using synthetic oil, but severe service (short trips, extreme temperatures, or dusty conditions) can shorten the interval. Always follow the vehicle’s maintenance schedule and reset the reminder after an oil change.
Summary
For a 2016 Chevy Trax, the best oil is Dexos1 Gen 2 certified oil with the viscosity specified in your manual—most often 5W-30, with 0W-20 appropriate in certain climates. Use a full-synthetic or synthetic-blend option for optimum protection, and always verify Dexos1 Gen 2 certification and the correct viscosity before purchasing.
