What oil does a Chevy Tracker take?
Most Chevy Trackers use Dexos1 approved motor oil, typically in a 5W-30 viscosity, but the exact specification depends on the engine and year. Always verify the precise requirement in your owner’s manual or with a dealer.
How to determine the exact oil your Tracker needs
To avoid guessing, follow these steps to confirm the correct oil for your specific vehicle. This process accounts for variations by market, model year, and engine type.
- Check the owner’s manual for the oil specification, recommended viscosity, and capacity. The manual will provide the official guidance for your engine.
- Look under the hood for the oil fill cap or a label on the engine bay that lists the required oil grade and Dexos certification if applicable.
- Identify your engine code or VIN. Some Tracker engines require different Dexos generations or even conventional oil; the VIN can help a parts or service advisor pull the exact spec.
- Consult a Chevy dealer or GM’s official online resources (such as an oil specification finder) to confirm the exact oil requirement for your VIN.
Using the correct oil specification ensures proper lubrication, performance, and warranty compliance for your Tracker.
Common oil options you may encounter for the Chevy Tracker
Across markets and generations, the Tracker has used several GM gasoline engines. Here are the typical categories you might see, with the caveat that your exact vehicle can differ. Always cross-check with the manual or a dealer.
- Dexos1 approved 5W-30: The most common modern specification for GM gas engines. Often recommended for a wide range of Tracker engines manufactured in the 2010s and later.
- Dexos1 Gen 1 5W-30 or Dexos1 Gen 2 0W-20: Some engines and markets may call for one of these Dexos generations or a slightly different viscosity based on climate and efficiency goals.
- Conventional 5W-30 or 5W-40 (older or non-Dexos engines): In older Tracker models or certain regional specifications, conventional oil in these ranges may be specified.
Because the oil specification can vary by engine and region, the exact grade and certification (Dexos1 vs. non-Dexos) should be confirmed for your specific Tracker using the sources above.
Extra tips for ensuring you use the right oil
If you want a quick, practical approach while you verify details, consider these guidelines. They are general best practices and should be used in conjunction with your manual and dealer advice.
- When in doubt, use a Dexos1 approved 5W-30 synthetic or synthetic blend oil, as many GM gasoline engines prescribe Dexos1 5W-30.
- In regions with extreme heat, some engines may tolerate or require a slightly different viscosity within the suggested range (e.g., 5W-30 vs. 0W-30). Confirm for your climate.
- Always use a oil filter that matches the vehicle’s specifications and install new crush washers or hardware if recommended by the manual.
Following these practices helps protect the engine and maintains warranty coverage where applicable.
Summary
The Chevy Tracker’s oil requirement is not one-size-fits-all. The safest course is to consult the owner’s manual or a Chevy dealer to confirm the exact oil type, viscosity, and Dexos specification for your specific engine and year. In many cases, Dexos1 5W-30 is appropriate for modern gasoline engines, but variations exist depending on engine code, market, and climate. Always verify before purchasing oil to ensure optimal performance and protection.
