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Picking the right engine oil for your Chevy isn't just about maintenance — it's about protecting your investment. Using the incorrect oil can result in costly repairs. In this guide, we provide everything you need to know to select the right oil for your vehicle, keeping it in optimal condition.
Understanding the Importance of Choosing the Right Engine Oil for Your Chevy
Engine oil does more than merely lubricate moving components. It actively works to minimize friction that can cause severe damage to your engine. It also regulates temperature and removes debris and contaminants that can interfere with optimal engine operation. It's essential to choose the correct oil for your vehicle to prevent costly repairs.
Specific Oil Recommendations
The 2025 Chevrolet lineup is specific regarding oil requirements. The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. The recommended oil for this engine is SAE 5W-30 Dexos1 full synthetic oil that functions down to 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Some model years may also be compatible with SAE 0W-20 full synthetic without any issues.
If you own a Silverado 1500, you should be aware of your engine setup. If you have a 5.3-liter or 6.2-liter V-8 engine, SAE 0W-20 is recommended, while other engine configurations require SAE 5W-30. The Duramax Turbo-Diesel requires SAE 0W-20 dexosD diesel engine oil specifically, while the 2025 Suburban uses full synthetic dexos1-approved SAE 0W-20 that should be changed every 7,500 miles.
The Malibu's 1.5-liter engine, on the other hand, uses SAE 0W-20 full synthetic oil, while the 2.0-liter engine prefers SAE 5W-30. You can also use SAE 5W-30 or SAE 10W-30 dexos1 full synthetic oil.
GM's official dexos lineup includes dexos1 for gas engines (available in SAE 0W-20 and SAE 5W-30), dexos2 for light-duty diesel and European gas engines (available in SAE 0W-30, SAE 5W-30, and SAE 5W-40 options), and dexosD specifically for light-duty Duramax diesel engines.
Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil
Synthetic oil significantly outperforms conventional oil in performance tests. Synthetic oil maintains its viscosity regardless of temperature, providing consistent protection in both hot and cold weather conditions. Although synthetic oil is about twice the cost of conventional oil, it lasts longer. Some brands claim you can stretch the change interval to 15,000 to 25,000 miles, though most manufacturers recommend the safer 7,500- to 10,000-mile range.
Conventional oil remains suitable in certain situations, particularly if you're driving an older vehicle. Cars 10 years or older with traditional 3,000-mile or three-month change intervals may perform adequately with conventional oil. But for most current Chevy owners, ACDelco dexos1 full synthetic oil provides enhanced temperature stability, improved engine protection, and longer change intervals that help mitigate the higher initial cost.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Engine Oil for Your Chevy
Your local climate seriously affects your oil choice. High temperatures cause oil to become thinner, decreasing protection for engine components and increasing the strain on the overall system. Heat also causes lighter oil components to evaporate, resulting in lower oil volume and efficacy. Prolonged heat exposure accelerates oil oxidation, creating sludge that can clog your engine.
Mileage is also a crucial factor. Once your vehicle surpasses 75,000 miles, it starts showing signs of its age, such as increased wear, lower fuel efficiency, decreased performance, and a shorter engine life span. Vehicles with higher mileage can benefit from specialized oil formulations designed to condition seals and reduce leaks.
Severe driving conditions can also significantly disrupt standard oil change schedules. Situations such as frequent stop-and-go traffic, towing heavy loads, driving in extreme temperatures, navigating rough terrain, and making regular short trips of five miles or less all put more strain on the engine, necessitating more frequent oil changes. Even with advancements in engine and oil technology, high-performance and heavy-duty vehicles may still need oil changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles to maintain optimal performance.
Get Expert Oil Service for Your Chevy in Plano, Texas
Selecting the appropriate engine oil for your Chevy involves understanding your vehicle's specific needs, your driving habits, and your maintenance schedule. Professional service takes the guesswork out of oil selection and gives you peace of mind. At Huffines Chevrolet Plano, we can inspect the condition of your vehicle's oil and engine, drain used oil, replace oil filters, add fresh oil, top off fluids, and reset maintenance reminders. Contact our team for expert oil service and recommendations for your specific Chevy model.
Image by Tim Mossholder | Licensed with Unsplash License