What type of oil does my 2012 Chevy Malibu take?
Your 2012 Chevy Malibu requires 5W-30 motor oil. This is the recommended oil type specified by the manufacturer for your vehicle model and year.
Detailed Explanation
The 2012 Chevy Malibu is equipped with a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. According to the owner's manual and maintenance recommendations from Chevrolet, this engine requires 5W-30 motor oil. This oil grade is designed to provide optimal lubrication and protection for the engine under a variety of driving conditions.
The "5W-30" designation refers to the oil's viscosity, or thickness. The "5W" indicates the oil's cold weather performance, allowing it to flow easily when the engine is cold. The "30" refers to the oil's thickness at normal operating temperatures. This 5W-30 viscosity is a common recommendation for many modern passenger vehicles, as it balances fuel efficiency, engine protection, and all-weather performance.
Reasons for Using the Recommended Oil
- Engine Protection: 5W-30 oil helps reduce engine wear and tear by providing a protective lubricating film between moving parts, even under high temperatures and loads.
- Fuel Efficiency: The lower viscosity of 5W-30 oil reduces engine drag, allowing the engine to operate more efficiently and improving fuel economy.
- Manufacturer Specifications: Using the recommended 5W-30 oil ensures your 2012 Malibu's engine operates as intended by the manufacturer, maintaining warranty coverage and optimal performance.
It's important to always refer to your owner's manual or consult with a qualified mechanic to determine the correct oil type and viscosity for your specific vehicle. Using the wrong oil can lead to increased wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential engine damage over time.
What oil do I need for a 2012 Chevy Malibu?
5W-30.1 quart.
Can I use 0w20 instead of 5w30 Chevy?
Can I use a 0W-20 in my car that recommends 5W-30? No, if your owner's manual calls for a thicker oil, you should not use a thinner SAE grade nor use a thicker oil for a recommended thinner oil vis-grade. Using the proper viscosity motor oil will help protect and maintain the performance of your vehicle's engine.
Can I use 5w20 instead of 5w30 Chevy?
While using it temporarily in a pinch likely won't cause your engine lasting harm, remember that the engineers who built your engine did so with a specific viscosity oil in mind, meaning it's best to stick with it. Some automakers do recommend different viscosities of oil depending on weather conditions.
What type of oil does Chevy recommend?
For a gasoline engine, we recommend SAE 5W-30 Dexos1 full synthetic oil.
How many quarts of oil does a 2012 Chevy Malibu 2.4 take?
5 quarts
Up to 5 quarts of synthetic oil.
How much oil does a 2012 Chevy Malibu 2.5 take?
Oil Grade: SEOC3
| Viscosity: | 5W-30 (All TEMPS) |
|---|---|
| Capacity: | 5 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level. |
| Torque: | 18 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug) |
| Notes: | (1) This specification has been updated from Dexos 1 Gen 2 to GM Dexos 1 Gen 3. |
Does it matter what kind of oil you put in your engine?
Think of it this way: engine oils naturally thicken as they cool, and thin as they're heated. Therefore: Thin, low viscosity oils (lower numbers) flow easier to protect engine parts at cold temperatures. Thicker, high viscosity oils (higher numbers) are typically better at protecting engines at warmer temperatures.
What kind of oil does a 2.4 L Chevy Malibu take?
The manufacturer recommends SAE 0W-30 which meets full synthetic dexos1 standards as the Chevy Malibu oil type.
How much is an oil change for a 2012 Chevy Malibu?
$85 - $104. “Dealer” refers to service centers that specialize in one or two makes and sell those vehicles.
What kind of oil should I put in my Chevy Malibu?
synthetic SAE 0W-30
What Is the Recommended Chevy Malibu Oil Type? Chevrolet recommends full synthetic SAE 0W-30 ACDelco dexos1 oil as the Chevy Malibu oil type. Always check your owner's manual or driver's information center to see the Chevy Malibu oil type that's right for your precise model, engine, and year.
