What oil do you put in a Chevy Cruze?
The right oil for a Chevy Cruze is Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic motor oil, with the exact viscosity (often 0W-20 or 5W-30) depending on your engine and climate; diesel models use Dexos2. Always check your owner’s manual or consult a dealer to confirm the precise specification for your year and engine variant.
Choosing the correct oil starts with the engine type and model year. The Cruze lineup has included several gasoline engines (such as 1.8L and 1.4L turbo) and, in some markets, diesel versions. GM requiresDexos1 Gen 2-certified oils for most gasoline engines and Dexos2 oils for diesel engines. Viscosity recommendations can vary: some engines run best on 0W-20, others on 5W-30, and climate can influence which grade is optimal. This article lays out the general guidance and where to look for your exact specification.
Engine options and oil specifications
Gasoline engines and diesel engines in the Cruze have different oil specifications. The following notes summarize what to look for, with a focus on GM’s Dexos approval and common viscosity options.
Gasoline engines (1.8L, 1.4L turbo)
Most Cruze gasoline engines require Dexos1 Gen 2 approved oil. Common viscosity options in these engines are 0W-20 or 5W-30, with the exact grade depending on the engine variant and operating climate. If you can’t locate a 0W-20 option, many Dexos1 Gen 2 oils in 5W-30 are acceptable, but always verify with the owner’s manual or dealer.
Diesel engines
Diesel variants of the Cruze typically use Dexos2-rated oils, with a common viscosity around 5W-40. Always confirm the specification in your market’s manual, as Dexos2 requirements can vary by engine and year.
Oil maintenance and best practices
Below are practical guidelines to help you choose the right oil and keep your Cruze running smoothly over time.
Oil grade and viscosity recommendations
- Dexos1 Gen 2 approved oil is required for most Chevrolet Cruze gasoline engines.
- Common viscosities are 0W-20 and 5W-30; the exact grade depends on engine type, model year, and climate.
- Diesel Cruze engines require Dexos2-rated oil, typically around 5W-40.
- Always choose a full synthetic or synthetic blend that meets Dexos1 Gen 2 specs; avoid non-Dexos oils in modern Cruze engines.
In short, selecting Dexos1 Gen 2 oil in the recommended viscosity is essential for protection and warranty. Always verify the exact specification for your model year and engine in the owner’s manual or with a Chevrolet dealer.
Oil change intervals and maintenance tips
- Follow the vehicle’s recommended oil change interval, which is typically around 7,500 miles (12,000 kilometers) for full synthetic Dexos1 Gen 2 oil, and somewhat shorter for synthetic blends or under severe driving conditions.
- Regularly check the oil level and condition using the dipstick or the vehicle’s maintenance reminder system, especially before long trips.
- Avoid overfilling the crankcase and use the correct filter described in the owner’s manual.
- When in doubt, consult a Chevy dealership or a trusted mechanic to confirm the right oil specification for your exact year and engine.
Following the recommended intervals helps protect the engine, maintain fuel efficiency, and preserve warranty coverage where applicable.
Practical steps to verify the correct oil for your Cruze
Because engines and markets vary, the safest approach is to verify the exact specification for your vehicle. Use these steps as a quick reference:
- Check the owner’s manual section on engine oil for the exact Dexos specification and viscosity grade.
- If you don’t have the manual handy, contact a Chevrolet dealer or the service department with your VIN to confirm Dexos1 Gen 2 approval and the recommended viscosity.
- Purchase oil labeled Dexos1 Gen 2 (and Dexos2 for diesel) from reputable brands, ensuring the product meets GM’s specification.
Summary
For a Chevy Cruze, the standard requirement is Dexos1 Gen 2 oil for most gasoline engines, with viscosity typically 0W-20 or 5W-30 depending on the engine and climate. Diesel models use Dexos2, commonly 5W-40. Always verify the exact specification for your year and engine in the owner’s manual or with a Chevrolet service representative, and follow the recommended oil-change intervals to keep your Cruze running reliably.
