What oil is GM approved?
Choosing the right oil for your General Motors (GM) vehicle is crucial for maintaining its performance and longevity. With various options available, it can be challenging to determine which oils meet GM's stringent standards. In this article, we will explore the types of oil that are GM approved, their specifications, and why using the right oil is essential for your vehicle.
Understanding GM Oil Specifications
GM has established specific oil specifications to ensure optimal engine performance and protection. The most common specifications include:
- GM dexos1™: This is the most widely used specification for gasoline engines. It is designed to provide excellent engine protection, fuel economy, and performance.
- GM dexos2™: This specification is intended for diesel engines and offers superior protection against wear and deposits.
- GM 6094M: This is an older specification primarily for older GM vehicles, focusing on engine cleanliness and protection.
Types of GM Approved Oils
When selecting oil for your GM vehicle, look for products that meet the dexos1™ or dexos2™ specifications. Here are some common types of oils that are GM approved:
- Synthetic Oils: These oils provide excellent protection and performance, especially in extreme temperatures. They are often recommended for modern GM vehicles.
- Conventional Oils: While not as advanced as synthetic oils, conventional oils can still meet GM specifications for older models.
- Blended Oils: These oils combine synthetic and conventional oils, offering a balance of performance and cost-effectiveness.
Why Using GM Approved Oil Matters
Using GM approved oil is essential for several reasons:
- Engine Protection: GM approved oils are formulated to protect against wear, deposits, and sludge buildup, ensuring your engine runs smoothly.
- Warranty Compliance: Using the correct oil helps maintain your vehicle's warranty, as failure to do so can void coverage.
- Performance Optimization: GM approved oils are designed to enhance fuel efficiency and overall engine performance, contributing to a better driving experience.
Conclusion
In summary, selecting the right oil for your GM vehicle is vital for its performance and longevity. Always look for oils that meet GM's dexos1™ or dexos2™ specifications to ensure your engine receives the best protection and efficiency. Regular oil changes with the appropriate oil will help keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is special about Dexos D oil?
Additional benefits include enhanced deposit control, oxidation resistance, wear protection, and fuel economy. A lower viscosity also makes dexos oil a viable option for vehicles in extremely hot or cold environments.
Is Mobil 1 GM approved?
Mobil 1 5W-30 meets GM-LL-A-025. Will the use of Mobil 1™ void my new-car warranty? The use of Mobil 1 will not void new-car warranties where an American Petroleum Institute (API) certified oil is recommended.
What year did GM require Dexos?
2011
In North America, starting with the 2011 model year, GM introduced dexos 1™ certified engine oil as a factory fill and service fill for gasoline engines. The reasons for the new engine oil specification are as follows: To meet environmental goals such as increasing fuel efficiency and reducing engine emissions.
What happens if you don't use Dexos approved oil?
Using non-Dexos oil for engines that are officially required to use Dexos voids your warranty, and if you have to use the vehicle manufacturer's oil only. Not using Dexos oil for engines that are officially required to use Dexos voids your warranty.
What is the world's No 1 engine oil brand?
Comparison of the best engine oils for 2022
| Engine oil name | |
|---|---|
| Best engine oil overall | Mobil 1 Extended Performance |
| Best engine oil overall runner-up | Castrol GTX Magnatec |
| Best synthetic engine oil | Pennzoil Ultra Platinum Full Synthetic |
| Best synthetic engine oil runner-up | Amsoil Signature Series Synthetic |
What brand of oil does GM recommend?
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.
Why does GM require Dexos oil?
GM stated that dexos was introduced to simplify oil selection and ensure increased fuel mileage. The American Petroleum Institute and the International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee have similar oil ratings. Why am I coming across posts that Dexos is a product that makes up the oil.
Can I use Dexos 1 instead of Dexos D?
GM dexos® 1 specified motor oils are engineered for vehicles equipped with gasoline engines. GM dexos® D specified motor oils are formulated for light-duty diesel engines.
What motor oils are Dexos approved?
Licensed dexos1 Gen 2 brands
| Brand Name | Supplier | Viscosity |
|---|---|---|
| ACDELCO FULLY SYNTHETIC ENGINE OIL | ExxonMobil | 5W-30 |
| ACDelco Long Life Synthetic dexos1 Gen3 | ExxonMobil | 5W-30 |
| ACDelco Long Life Synthetic dexos1 Gen3 | General Motors | 5W-30 |
| ACDelco Oleo Sintetico para Motor dexos1 Gen3 API | ICONIC Lubrificantes | 0W-20 |
Is Mobil 1 oil Dexos approved?
Mobil 1™ ESP Formula 0W-40 is the first and only dexos2™-approved motor oil developed specifically for Chevrolet Corvettes.
