What type of oil does Chevy use?
Dexos specifications and what it means for Chevy engines
The backbone of Chevrolet’s oil requirements rests on Dexos specifications. Dexos-certified oils are designed to protect GM engines and maintain performance and emissions standards. Here is a quick guide to the main Dexos categories you’ll encounter in Chevy vehicles.
- Dexos1 Gen 2: The standard for most newer gasoline engines in Chevrolet models. It covers a wide range of 2011-to-present GM gasoline engines and is the typical prescription you’ll see on modern Chevys.
- Dexos2: Used primarily for diesel engines and some European-market or high-performance applications within GM, including certain Chevrolet models. If your vehicle is diesel or explicitly calls for Dexos2, use Dexos2-compliant oil.
- Dexos1 Gen 1: An older specification still compatible with some pre-Gen 2 Chevrolet engines or when a manual specifies Dexos1 Gen 1. Always confirm via the owner’s manual or service label.
Chevrolet owners should look for the Dexos specification on the oil bottle and/or the vehicle’s oil fill cap, and cross-check with the owner’s manual or the Chevrolet Owner Center to ensure compatibility for their exact year and model.
Common oil viscosities for Chevy engines
Viscosity is the other major variable in Chevy’s oil guidance. The right viscosity helps with cold starts, fuel efficiency, and engine protection, and it varies by engine design and climate. Below are typical ranges you might see in Chevy manuals, with the caveat that your exact requirement will be specified by GM for your powertrain.
- 0W-20: Very common for many modern small-block and turbocharged engines in Chevrolets, prioritizing fuel efficiency and cold-start performance.
- 5W-30: Used in many mid-sized and larger engines, particularly in moderate to hot climates or when the engine requires more viscosity protection at operating temperature.
- 10W-30 or other higher-viscosity grades: Less common in new vehicles, but may appear in older Chevy engines or specific regional/seasonal recommendations. Always verify with the manual.
Because engine design and climate affect viscosity choice, it is essential to follow the exact grade listed in your owner’s manual or on the under-hood oil cap rather than relying on a general rule.
How to confirm the exact specification for your Chevy
To avoid using the wrong oil, use these steps to confirm the correct Dexos specification and viscosity for your exact model and year.
- Locate the owner’s manual for your vehicle and read the “Engine Oil” or “Specifications” section to see the Dexos requirement and viscosity.
- Check the oil fill cap or the under-hood labeling, which sometimes lists the Dexos specification (for example, Dexos1 Gen 2) and the recommended viscosity.
- Use an engine oil that is certified to the specified Dexos standard and viscosity from a reputable brand or dealership.
If in doubt, contact a Chevrolet dealer or certified technician who can verify the exact oil specification for your VIN and ensure a proper oil change interval for your driving conditions.
Summary
Most modern Chevrolet vehicles require synthetic engine oil that meets Dexos specifications, with Dexos1 Gen 2 being the standard for gasoline engines and Dexos2 used for diesels or specialized markets. The exact viscosity—commonly 0W-20 or 5W-30—depends on the engine and environment. Always confirm by checking the owner’s manual, oil cap, or dealer guidance to use the correct Dexos grade and viscosity for your Chevy.
