What kind of oil do I need for a 2018 Chevy Equinox?
Choosing the right oil for your 2018 Chevy Equinox is crucial for maintaining engine performance and longevity. With years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I’m here to guide you through the process of selecting the correct oil type for your vehicle. Let’s dive into the specifics to ensure your Equinox runs smoothly.
Recommended Oil Type for the 2018 Chevy Equinox
The 2018 Chevy Equinox typically requires synthetic oil for optimal performance. Specifically, General Motors recommends using:
- SAE 5W-30 for most driving conditions.
- SAE 0W-20 if your Equinox is equipped with the 1.5L turbocharged engine.
These oil types are designed to provide excellent protection and efficiency, especially in varying temperatures. Always check your owner’s manual to confirm the exact specifications for your engine type.
Why Synthetic Oil is Recommended
Synthetic oil is preferred for modern vehicles like the 2018 Chevy Equinox because it offers several advantages over conventional oil:
- Better engine protection: Synthetic oil resists breakdown at high temperatures, ensuring your engine stays lubricated even under extreme conditions.
- Improved fuel efficiency: Its lower viscosity reduces friction, which can help improve your vehicle’s gas mileage.
- Longer oil change intervals: Synthetic oil lasts longer than conventional oil, meaning fewer oil changes over time.
- Enhanced performance in cold weather: It flows more easily at low temperatures, providing better startup protection.
These benefits make synthetic oil a smart choice for maintaining the health and performance of your Chevy Equinox.
How to Check and Change Your Oil
Regular oil checks and changes are essential for keeping your engine in top shape. Here’s a quick guide:
- Check your oil level: Use the dipstick to ensure the oil level is within the recommended range. Low oil levels can cause engine damage.
- Inspect oil quality: If the oil appears dark or gritty, it’s time for a change.
- Follow the maintenance schedule: For the 2018 Chevy Equinox, oil changes are typically recommended every 7,500 miles or as indicated by the oil life monitoring system.
- Use the correct oil filter: Always replace the oil filter during an oil change to ensure proper filtration.
By following these steps, you can keep your Equinox running efficiently and avoid costly repairs down the road.
Final Thoughts
Using the right oil for your 2018 Chevy Equinox is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. Stick to the recommended synthetic oil type—SAE 5W-30 or SAE 0W-20, depending on your engine—and follow a regular maintenance schedule. If you’re unsure or need assistance, don’t hesitate to visit a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin’s Autos. We’re here to help with all your car maintenance needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Chevy require full synthetic oil?
Many modern Chevy vehicles require synthetic oil to help your engine last longer.
What type of oil does a 2018 Equinox take?
AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil.
Does Chevy recommend synthetic oil?
We highly recommend fully synthetic oil because it better suits your Chevy engine.
What happens if I use 0W20 instead of 5w30?
Can I use a 0W-20 in my car that recommends 5W-30? No, if your owner's manual calls for a thicker oil, you should not use a thinner SAE grade nor use a thicker oil for a recommended thinner oil vis-grade. Using the proper viscosity motor oil will help protect and maintain the performance of your vehicle's engine.
Can I put regular oil in my Chevy Equinox?
Recommended Oil Type for a Chevrolet Equinox
1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine (2018 and newer): This engine requires 5W-30 full synthetic oil for all configurations. 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine: This uses 5W-30 full synthetic oil for both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) models.
Can a Chevy Equinox take 0W20 oil?
If you ever drive the Equinox in colder conditions, it's also helpful to know the following recommended Chevy Equinox oil grades for reference: 2.0L turbocharged Equinox models: 0W-30 synthetic oil. 1.5L turbocharged Equinox models: 0W-20 synthetic oil.
What kind of oil does a 2018 Chevy take?
In general, the top Chevy Silverado 1500 oil type is SAE 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil from ACDelco's dexos1 standard for 5.3L and 6.2L engines. For the smaller 2.7L TurboMax high-output engine, you'll need SAE 5W-30 full synthetic oil.
What oil is best for a Chevy Equinox?
5W-30 synthetic oil
Recommended Oil for the Chevy Equinox
We recommend 5W-30 synthetic oil for the Chevy Equinox, which provides excellent viscosity and lubrication under various Oceanside temperature conditions. For example, in winter, we recommend: 2.0L turbocharged Equinox models: 0W-30 synthetic oil.
Can you use 5W-30 instead of 0W-20?
Using the proper viscosity motor oil will help protect and maintain the performance of your vehicle's engine. Thus, always refer to the manufacturer's recommendation while your vehicle is under warranty. **if you have a car that recommends 0W-20, do not use 5W-30 – back # of vis-grade must match or it is a no-go.
Can I use 5w30 instead of 0w20?
Using the proper viscosity motor oil will help protect and maintain the performance of your vehicle's engine. Thus, always refer to the manufacturer's recommendation while your vehicle is under warranty. **if you have a car that recommends 0W-20, do not use 5W-30 – back # of vis-grade must match or it is a no-go.
