What kind of oil does a 2011 Impala take?
A 2011 Chevrolet Impala generally requires Dexos1-certified 5W-30 engine oil, with full synthetic preferred. The requirement applies to the two available V6 engines—3.5L and 3.9L—and the essential guidance is to use oil that meets Dexos1 specifications and viscosity of 5W-30, as listed in the owner's manual.
Oil specifications for the 2011 Impala
Understanding the vehicle’s oil needs starts with the Dexos1 certification and the recommended viscosity. GM’s guidance for the 2011 Impala centers on using a Dexos1-certified oil with a 5W-30 grade, suitable for most operating temperatures. The following points capture the core requirements.
Key requirements to look for when buying oil are:
- Dexos1 Gen 1 certified engine oil
- Viscosity grade: 5W-30 (appropriate for most weather conditions)
- Oil type: Fully synthetic or synthetic-blend oils that carry the Dexos1 certification
- Always consult the owner’s manual or a Chevrolet dealer if you’re unsure about the exact specification for your engine version
Oil products that carry the Dexos1 certification indicate compatibility with GM engines of this era, and using the correct grade helps protect the engine and maintain performance over time.
Oil change intervals and practical guidance
Maintenance schedules for the 2011 Impala vary by oil type and driving conditions. In general, synthetic Dexos1 oils allow longer intervals than conventional oils, but severe driving conditions (heavy traffic, frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, or towing) shorten drain intervals. Typical guidelines are as follows, though you should always follow the manual or a dealer’s recommendation:
- Conventional oil: roughly every 3,000–5,000 miles (or as recommended by GM)
- Synthetic Dexos1 oil: commonly up to about 7,500 miles in normal conditions, with shorter intervals under severe use
- Always replace the oil filter at every oil change
When in doubt, rely on the owner’s manual or a local Chevrolet service professional to confirm the appropriate interval for your driving habits.
Where to look and what to do next
To ensure you’re using the correct oil, check the owner’s manual’s specifications section or call a Chevrolet dealership for confirmation. If you’re shopping at a retailer, look for a Dexos1 certification on the label and verify the viscosity is 5W-30. Keeping this alignment helps protect the engine and maintain efficiency over the life of the vehicle.
Summary
For a 2011 Impala, the standard oil choice is Dexos1-certified 5W-30 engine oil, with full synthetic preferred for its durability and protection. The exact engine option (3.5L or 3.9L) does not change the core specification, but always verify with the owner’s manual or a Chevrolet service professional. Adhering to the Dexos1 5W-30 recommendation and following appropriate service intervals will help keep the engine running smoothly.
How much oil does a 2011 Impala 3.9 take?
The 2011 Impala 3.9L requires 4 quarts of oil with a filter change. Use SAE 5W-30 viscosity oil for all temperatures, or 0W-30 for temperatures below -29∘Cnegative 29 raised to the composed with power cap C−29∘𝐶. Always check the oil level with the dipstick after refilling and adjust as needed.
- Capacity: 4 quarts (with filter change)
- Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 (all temps) or 0W-30 (below -29∘Cnegative 29 raised to the composed with power cap C−29∘𝐶)
- Action: After adding oil, start the engine for a few minutes, then shut it off, and wait a moment for the oil to settle before checking the dipstick and topping off if necessary.
What kind of oil does a 3.8 L V6 take?
5W-20
Mustang Oil Change Type & Capacity By Year/Engine
| Year / Engine | Mustang Oil Type | Mustang Oil Filter |
|---|---|---|
| 1979-1993 Mustang | ||
| 4.6L V8 (2V & 4V) | 5W-20 | FL820S |
| 3.8L V6 | 5W-20 | FL400 |
| 2005-2009 Mustang |
What kind of oil do I put in my 2011 Chevy Impala?
Oil Grade: SEOC3
| Viscosity: | 0W-30 (Below -29°C) 5W-30 (All TEMPS) |
|---|---|
| Capacity: | 4 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level. |
| Torque: | 19 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug) |
What kind of oil does a 2011 Chevy take?
Notes: Full Synthetic. 5W-30.
