What oil does Chevy recommend?
As a car owner, understanding the type of oil your vehicle requires is crucial for maintaining its performance and longevity. Chevrolet, a well-known American automobile manufacturer, has specific recommendations for engine oil that vary by model and year. In this article, we will explore the types of oil recommended by Chevy and why using the correct oil is essential for your vehicle's health.
Types of Oil Recommended by Chevy
Chevrolet typically recommends using synthetic oil for most of its newer models. Synthetic oil offers better protection and performance compared to conventional oil. Here are the main types of oil you might consider:
- Synthetic Oil: This is the preferred choice for many Chevy models, especially those with turbocharged engines or high-performance specifications.
- Conventional Oil: Some older models may still use conventional oil, but it's essential to check the owner's manual for specific recommendations.
- High Mileage Oil: For vehicles with over 75,000 miles, Chevy recommends high mileage oil, which contains additives to help reduce oil consumption and prevent leaks.
Viscosity Ratings
Chevrolet also specifies viscosity ratings for their recommended oils. The most common ratings include:
- 5W-30: This is the most commonly recommended oil for many Chevy models, providing excellent protection in a wide range of temperatures.
- 0W-20: Often recommended for newer models, this oil improves fuel efficiency and provides better cold-start performance.
- 10W-30: This may be recommended for older models or specific engines that require a thicker oil.
Why Using the Right Oil Matters
Using the correct oil is vital for several reasons:
- Engine Protection: The right oil helps lubricate engine components, reducing wear and tear.
- Fuel Efficiency: Proper oil viscosity can improve fuel economy, saving you money at the pump.
- Longevity: Regularly using the recommended oil can extend the life of your engine and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs.
Conclusion
In summary, Chevrolet recommends synthetic oil for most of its newer models, with specific viscosity ratings depending on the engine type. Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate information regarding your vehicle's oil requirements. By using the right oil, you can ensure your Chevy runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What oil is GM approved?
GM engines incorporate the use of dexos oils into their design, requiring exclusive use of these approved oils for optimal performance and longevity.
Which oil is good for Chevrolet?
For the stylish and efficient Chevy Malibu, SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil is often the go-to choice. This helps keep the engine running smoothly and efficiently, perfect for both city driving and highway cruising.
Do chevys need full synthetic oil?
In many cases, modern Chevrolets are optimized to run on synthetic oil due to their advanced engine designs.
Why does GM recommend Dexos oil?
Dexos oil is also specially formulated for proper lubrication, sludge reduction, friction level moderation and controlling temperatures – the latter being especially important in vehicles with turbochargers or superchargers, as they create more heat.
What's the difference between Dexos oil and regular oil?
Dexos® oils are formulated exclusively with synthetics or synthetic blends. Better antioxidant technology that keeps oil from oxidizing. Dexos® oils generally have a drain interval of up to 15,000 miles. Lower viscosity that holds up to engine combustion and heat better and longer than other oils on the market.
What happens if you put non Dexos oil in a Dexos engine?
Similar to full synthetic or synthetic blend motor oils, dexos oil should not be mixed with conventional or non-dexos oils. Incorporating these two types of oils can result in a loss of the properties that give dexos oil its superior performance.
What oil does GM use from the factory?
dexos®
The dexos® trademark represents high-quality, robust oil formulated to some of the most rigorous specifications in the industry. GM wants to ensure that every GM vehicle worldwide has access to the highest quality oil formulated to perform well and reduce vehicle emissions.
Do I really need to use Dexos oil?
You would want to use an oil with Dexos because the newer engines (especially the DFE ones) requires the additives that Dexos has to allow better flow to the upper cylinders. The ports are small and carbon is a factor in DFI engines. Keeping those ports passage free, the Dexos formula oils helps.
What happens when you put regular oil instead of full synthetic?
When it comes to doing oil changes, switching between synthetic and conventional oil is perfectly okay. Despite the oil myths, both oil types are compatible with each other – no engine flush needed. So, simply making the switch will not cause any damage to your engine nor impact your travels.
What brand of oil is recommended for Chevy?
Popular Oil Brands for Chevrolet Silverado 1500
ACDelco: This is the recommended oil for the 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter engines, meeting GM's dexos1 specifications for compatibility and performance. Pennzoil Platinum: This has GM's dexos1 approval, performs well in tests, and is another reliable option.
