What kind of transmission fluid does a 2013 Chevy Cruze 1.8 take?
The quick answer: Dexron VI automatic transmission fluid for the automatic version of the Cruze 1.8. If your car has a manual transmission, the fluid specification is different and should be confirmed in the owner's manual or GM service data.
Understanding the Cruze’s transmission options
In the 2013 Cruze 1.8 lineup, buyers could have either an automatic or a manual transmission. The proper fluid depends on which gearbox your car uses, so it’s important to identify your transmission type before purchasing fluid.
Automatic transmission fluid (for the Cruze 1.8)
For the Cruze’s automatic transmission, GM specifies Dexron VI automatic transmission fluid. Dexron VI is the standard and is compatible with the transmission’s lubrication and shifting requirements. Use a fluid labeled Dexron VI (or Dexron VI H, if available) and avoid older Dexron formulations unless GM explicitly says they’re compatible. Check your owner’s manual for interval recommendations and ensure the transmission is warm when checking fluid levels.
Fluid reference for automatics, in brief:
- Dexron VI automatic transmission fluid (preferred)
Concluding guidance for automatics: Always verify the exact specification for your VIN in the owner’s manual or GM service data, and use only GM-approved Dexron VI ATF to maintain proper transmission performance and longevity.
Manual transmission fluid (for the Cruze 1.8)
The manual transmission in a 2013 Cruze 1.8 generally uses a GL-4 grade gear oil, commonly in the 75W-90 range. This differs from the Dexron VI ATF used by automatics. Do not use GL-5 gear oil in a typical GM manual transmission, as it can affect synchronizers and shifting. Because regional specifications can vary, always confirm the exact fluid requirement from the owner’s manual or GM service data for your vehicle.
Fluid reference for manuals, in brief:
- GL-4 75W-90 gear oil (typical manual transmission requirement)
Concluding guidance for manuals: Verify the exact specification for your vehicle’s VIN in the owner’s manual or GM service data; use a high-quality GL-4 gear oil and avoid GL-5 formulations unless GM specifies otherwise.
How to verify the correct fluid for your car
Because specifications can vary by market and production date, the safest approach is to check the owner’s manual or the GM service data for your exact VIN. If in doubt, contact a Chevrolet dealer or a trusted independent shop to confirm the proper fluid specification and change interval.
Summary
In summary, the 2013 Chevy Cruze 1.8 uses Dexron VI automatic transmission fluid if it has an automatic transmission, and typically GL-4 75W-90 gear oil if it has a manual transmission. Always confirm the exact specification for your vehicle’s VIN in the owner’s manual or GM service data, and use only fluids approved for GM transmissions to protect shifting quality and transmission life.
