What oil does a 2012 Chevy Traverse take?
The 2012 Chevy Traverse uses Dexos1-approved engine oil, typically a 5W-30 viscosity. Always verify by checking the owner's manual, the oil cap, or with a Chevrolet dealer.
The Traverse from this year uses a 3.6L V6 in most trims, and General Motors specifies a particular lubricant standard to ensure proper protection and warranty compliance. This article outlines the official oil specification and practical guidance for selecting oil and maintaining the engine.
Oil specification for the 2012 Traverse
Key facts to guide your oil choice are listed here.
- Dexos1-approved engine oil for gasoline engines.
- Viscosity: 5W-30 is the default recommendation for most climates.
- Oil can be synthetic or synthetic-blend as long as it is Dexos1 approved.
- Oil capacity (with filter) is typically around 6 quarts (approximately 5.7 liters).
In practice, use a Dexos1-certified 5W-30 oil. If you live in extreme cold or heat, always consult the owner’s manual for any climate-specific recommendations.
Maintenance intervals and tips
Useful guidelines on how often you should change the oil and what to consider in everyday driving.
- Conventional oil: typically every 3,000–5,000 miles (about 4,800–8,000 km), depending on driving conditions.
- Synthetic or synthetic-blend Dexos1 5W-30: commonly 5,000–7,500 miles (about 8,000–12,000 km) under normal driving; shorter if you drive in severe conditions.
- Always follow the schedule in your owner’s manual and use the vehicle’s oil-life monitor if equipped.
Bottom line: Use Dexos1 5W-30 and adhere to the recommended service interval to maintain engine health.
Where to verify the specification
Check the owner's manual, the oil filler cap, or ask a Chevrolet service advisor. The cap often states Dexos1 and the recommended viscosity.
Summary
The 2012 Chevy Traverse requires Dexos1-approved engine oil, typically 5W-30 for most climates. Oils can be synthetic or synthetic-blend, and the engine holds about 6 quarts with filter. Always follow the owner's manual or oil-life monitor for the exact change interval and use Dexos1-certified oil to protect the engine and warranty.
What oil do I need for a 2012 Chevy Traverse?
The 2012 Chevy Traverse requires 5W-30 full synthetic motor oil, and the engine oil capacity is 6 quarts, including the filter. The oil fill cap is marked "5w30", and you should check your owner's manual to confirm the exact specification for your vehicle.
- Oil Type: 5W-30 full synthetic motor oil
- Capacity: 6 quarts
- Specification: GM dexos1 Gen 3 is the updated specification
- Check your owner's manual: It's always best to confirm the exact requirements for your specific vehicle
What oil is recommended for a Chevy Traverse?
The Chevy Traverse typically requires SAE 5W-30 full synthetic oil, though this can vary by model year, so it's essential to consult your owner's manual for the exact specification. For specific models, such as the 2023 LFY engine, the recommendation might be 0W-30 for cold weather and 5W-30 for all other temperatures. It is also important to ensure the oil has the GM Dexos1 approval.
Recommended oil type
- Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 is the most common recommendation for most model years.
- Type: Full synthetic oil is recommended for the best engine performance and protection.
- Specification: Look for oil that is certified with the GM Dexos1 specification.
Important considerations
- Check your owner's manual: Always confirm the correct oil type and viscosity for your specific model year and engine in your owner's manual.
- Cold weather: Some models may recommend a different viscosity, like 0W-30, for extremely cold temperatures below -29∘Cnegative 29 raised to the composed with power cap C−29∘𝐶.
- Oil capacity: The engine oil capacity is typically around 6 quarts, but it's best to check the dipstick to ensure the correct level after refilling.
What oil does a 2012 Chevy take?
STP Full Synthetic Engine Oil 5W-30 5 Quart
Notes: Full synthetic. 5W-30.
How much oil does a 3.6 Chevy Traverse take?
A 3.6L Chevy Traverse engine typically requires 6 quarts of engine oil for an oil change with a filter replacement. It is crucial to check the owner's manual for your specific model year, as some newer models might have a slightly different capacity. The recommended oil type is SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil that meets the Dexos1 specification.
Key details
- Capacity: 6 quarts (with filter)
- Recommended Oil: SAE 5W-30 Full Synthetic
- Specification: Dexos1 approved
- Procedure: Always replace the oil filter during an oil change. After refilling, run the engine briefly, then check the dipstick to confirm the correct oil level.
Important note
- While 6 quarts is the standard capacity for many years, it is essential to consult your specific model's owner's manual for the exact oil capacity and recommendations.
