What kind of oil do I need for a Chevy Equinox?
Choosing the right oil for your Chevy Equinox is essential for maintaining its performance, fuel efficiency, and longevity. With years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I’ve helped countless customers make the right choice for their vehicles. In this article, I’ll guide you through the process of selecting the correct oil for your Chevy Equinox, ensuring your engine runs smoothly for years to come.
Understanding Your Chevy Equinox's Oil Requirements
The type of oil your Chevy Equinox needs depends on its model year and engine type. Chevrolet provides specific recommendations in the owner’s manual, but here are some general guidelines to help you get started:
- Model Years 2010-2017: Most Chevy Equinox models from these years require synthetic oil with a viscosity of 5W-30. This oil is designed to perform well in a wide range of temperatures, ensuring optimal engine protection.
- Model Years 2018 and Newer: For newer models, Chevrolet often recommends synthetic oil with a viscosity of 0W-20. This thinner oil improves fuel efficiency and provides excellent lubrication, especially in colder climates.
- Diesel Engines: If your Equinox is equipped with a diesel engine, you’ll need a diesel-specific oil that meets the DexosD specification. Always check your owner’s manual for the exact requirements.
Why Synthetic Oil Is Recommended
Synthetic oil is the preferred choice for most Chevy Equinox models because of its superior performance and durability. Here’s why it’s a great option:
- Better Engine Protection: Synthetic oil resists breakdown at high temperatures, providing consistent lubrication and reducing engine wear.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Its lower viscosity reduces friction, helping your engine run more efficiently.
- Longer Oil Change Intervals: Synthetic oil lasts longer than conventional oil, meaning fewer oil changes and lower maintenance costs over time.
How to Check Your Oil Level and Quality
Regularly checking your oil level and quality is crucial for keeping your Chevy Equinox in top shape. Follow these steps:
- Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine. Wait a few minutes to allow the oil to settle.
- Locate the dipstick, usually marked with a bright handle, and pull it out.
- Wipe the dipstick clean with a cloth, reinsert it fully, and then pull it out again to check the oil level.
- Inspect the oil’s color and consistency. Fresh oil is amber-colored and smooth, while old oil may appear dark and gritty.
When to Change Your Oil
Chevrolet recommends changing the oil in your Equinox every 7,500 to 10,000 miles if you’re using synthetic oil. However, if you frequently drive in extreme conditions—such as towing heavy loads, driving in very hot or cold climates, or making short trips—you may need to change it more often. Always follow the oil life monitoring system in your vehicle for the most accurate guidance.
Final Thoughts
Using the right oil for your Chevy Equinox is a simple yet critical step in maintaining your vehicle’s health. If you’re unsure about which oil to use or need assistance with an oil change, feel free to visit Kevin’s Autos. With decades of experience, we’re here to help you keep your car running smoothly. Contact us today to schedule your next service!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter what oil I put in my car?
Using the wrong oil can also cause your engine to become clogged with sludge, which can reduce its efficiency, and cause it to run less smoothly. The wrong motor oil can also cause your engine to leak. Check your owner's manual to find out what type of oil is recommended for your car.
Is 5W-20 or 5W-30 better for high mileage?
Typically, a 5W-20 oil provides higher gas mileage than a 5W-30 due to its more effortless flow. However, the 5W-30 oil is still a suitable option where fuel efficiency is concerned. Using 5W-30 simply produces a bit less economy because moving an oil that is less freely flowing through the system consumes more energy.
What type of oil does Chevy recommend?
Engine type and year: For newer Silverados with 5.3-liter or 6.2-liter engines, use SAE 0W-20 full synthetic oil that meets the ACDelco full synthetic (dexos1) specification. For models with 2.7-liter, 4.3-liter, or 6.6-liter engines, opt for SAE 5W-30 oil.
What oil should I put in my Chevy Equinox?
So, what is the best oil for the Chevy Equinox? The experts recommend 5W-30 synthetic oil for driving conditions around Tampa. This Chevy Equinox oil type is standard for the guaranteed best performance.
What happens if I use 5W20 instead of 5W30?
While using it temporarily in a pinch likely won't cause your engine lasting harm, remember that the engineers who built your engine did so with a specific viscosity oil in mind, meaning it's best to stick with it. Some automakers do recommend different viscosities of oil depending on weather conditions.
Can I put 5W20 in a Chevy Equinox?
Your Chevy Equinox Oil Options
In short, you want to use a 5W-30 synthetic motor oil if you've got a four-cylinder Chevy Equinox. The right Chevy Equinox oil for V6 engines is 5W-20 oil, however.
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.
What kind of oil does a 2017 Chevy Equinox take?
SAE 5W-30
Chevy Equinox Oil Type
Chevrolet recommends SAE 5W-30 Dexos1 full synthetic oil for your Chevy Equinox SUV.
What vehicles use 0W20 oil?
Mobil Full Synthetic 0W-20 motor oil is recommended for all types of gasoline-powered vehicles, such as passenger cars, SUVs, light-duty vans and trucks, including models with turbocharged engines.
Can a Chevy Equinox take 0W20 oil?
The 2024 model year, like several model years before it, should be replenished with SAE 0W-20 engine oil. This engine oil is recommended in the 2024 owner's manual, which is your ultimate guide on the care of your Chevrolet Equinox.
