The selection of lubricant is made taking into account the engine parameters and its technical characteristics. The operating instructions recommend using only products that meet the vehicle manufacturer's requirements. The use of fluids and oils that do not meet these requirements may cause damage not covered by the warranty. In this article, we invite you to familiarize yourself with the recommended motor oils for the Chevrolet Cruze.
Model 2004 release.
For this vehicle range, use API classification oil - SG, SH, SJ, SL.
Select viscosity (SAE) according to the temperature range diagram corresponding to the operating conditions of the vehicle before the next oil change.
Caution: As engine oil viscosity increases, fuel consumption increases, so lower viscosity oils provide better fuel economy. In hot weather, more viscous oils provide better lubrication.
Viscosity temperature range diagram. Attention: it is recommended to be careful when using low-viscosity motor oils (such as 0W - 20) in cars with high mileage or in warm seasons (for example, summer). When using such oils, you should be sure that the engine and its seals are in good condition.
The volume of engine fluid for a Chevrolet Cruze when replacing it is presented below.
Refill capacity:
- Dry engine - 4.1 l;
- With filter replacement - 3.8 l;
- Without filter replacement - 3.6 l.
Chevrolet Cruze 2009-2015
Model 2011 release. When to change engine oil
The electronic system of the Chevrolet Cruze will promptly warn you about the need to change the oil and filter. The calculation is based on engine speed and operating temperature; mileage is not taken into account. Based on driving conditions, the need to change the oil may occur at different mileage levels.
To ensure stable operation of the system, it must be reset after each oil change. When the system calculates that the oil has reached the end of its service life, it will notify the driver about the need to change the oil. The CodE 82 symbol will appear in the driver information center. In this case, the oil must be changed as soon as possible; the permissible mileage before changing the oil should not exceed 1000 km.
Under certain conditions (favorable driving conditions), the system may not indicate the need for an oil change for more than a year. The engine oil and filter must be changed at least once a year, and the system must be reset at the same time.
Engine oil life display The remaining engine oil life is displayed in the Driver Information Center by the I indicator, followed by the percentage of engine oil life remaining. To do this, turn on the ignition and do not start the engine.
Choosing engine oil
Motor oil is characterized by quality and viscosity. When choosing motor oil, know that quality is much more important than its viscosity. It affects engine cleanliness, wear protection, and the rate of oil aging; and viscosity indicates the stability of the oil’s properties during temperature fluctuations.
1. Engine oil quality
Buy dexos certified motor oils. This mark guarantees that the quality of the oil meets the requirements of the dexos specification.
The Chevrolet Cruze was initially filled with approved dexos engine oil at the factory. Use only dexos approved oils or similar oils with the appropriate viscosity level. Information about what tolerances a specific motor oil is certified to can be found on the label.
If you are not sure about the quality of the oil you are using, contact your authorized dealer.
The choice of engine oil is influenced by the performance characteristics of the oil, as well as its viscosity.
2. Engine oil viscosity index
Engine oil viscosity depending on temperature. SAE 5W-30 is the optimal oil viscosity value for your car. Do not use oils with SAE viscosity 10W-30, 10W-40 or 20W-50.
Work at low temperatures. In countries with cold climates, when temperatures drop to -25 °C, an oil type with a viscosity of SAE 0W-30 (for winter) should be used. Oil of this viscosity makes it easier to start the engine at very low temperatures. When choosing an oil of the required viscosity, pay attention to the presence of the dexos marking.
- Up to -25 °C and below: 0W-30, 0W-40;
- Up to -25 °C: 5W-30, 5W-40;
- Up to -20 °C: 10W-30, 10W-40 (only for LXT);
- Up to -15 °C: 15W-30, 15W-40 (LXT only).
SAE Viscosity provides information about the viscosity of an oil. Universal oil is designated by two codes. All-season oil is designated by two numbers separated by the letter W.
Viscosity is designated by numbers: the first followed by the letter W indicates low-temperature viscosity, the second indicates high-temperature viscosity.
Warning!
All of these substances are dangerous and can be poisonous. Handle them with care. Read the information on the packages.
Topping up engine oil
If motor oils from different manufacturers and brands meet the accepted requirements for quality and viscosity, then they can be mixed.
If engine oil of the required quality is not available, no more than one liter of ACEA A3/B4 or A3/B3 class oil can be used (no more than once per oil change). The oil must have the appropriate viscosity. The use of only ACEA A1/B1 or A5/B5 grade oil is strictly prohibited as serious engine damage may occur under certain conditions.
Using other oils when dexos oils are not available
If dexos oils are not available, other oils can be used to top up to the required level in the quantities indicated above. It should be remembered that the use of oils that do not meet the dexos specification, under certain conditions, can lead to a deterioration in the traction and power characteristics of the engine or its failure.
Motor oil additives
The use of other motor oil additives may cause engine problems and will void the warranty.
Without exaggeration, the Chevrolet Cruze can be called an international favorite of drivers. For a long time, the model has been one of the best choices in the compact sedan segment. The brainchild of General Motors is distinguished by a pleasant appearance, a cozy interior, high-quality finishing materials, and, of course, a long engine life.
To maintain the functionality of the main components and assemblies in the car system, you cannot do without engine oil. That is why it is advisable for every owner to know what kind of oil to pour into the Chevrolet Cruze engine, so that the power unit will delight you with stable and trouble-free operation.
Depending on the region in which the car is operated, a lubricant with a certain degree of viscosity is selected. Generals Motors recommends that Chevrolet Cruze owners use motor fluid with a viscosity of 5W30. But it is possible to use another type of lubricant if various external and internal factors force it. It is advisable to fill power units with a certified DEXOS2 product. This oil meets all requirements, which is why it was approved by the Chevrolet Cruze manufacturer. It is also worth saying that DEXOS is initially poured into the engine of a Chevrolet car at the factory.
However, the manufacturer allows the use of lubricant from other companies, but in compliance with the recommended viscosity. This characteristic can be seen on the packaging label when purchasing the product at a car store. SAE 5W30 oil is the ideal lubricant, but Chevrolet Cruze owners should avoid substances with characteristics of 10W-30 or 10W-40 if possible. Also, many drivers are interested in the question of when should they change the oil in a Chevrolet Cruze? There are also no special features here: it is best to replace it every 10 thousand km. If the car runs on low quality fuel, then it is advisable to do all the work a little earlier.
Sometimes getting lubricating fluid from a particular company is not so easy. Plus, the engine oil initially filled at the factory is intended for the vehicle's break-in period. Therefore, many drivers often look for an alternative to the product recommended by General Motors. Since there is no strict link in the operating instructions for the Chevrolet Cruze 1.6, 1.9 to any brand, you can choose a suitable option among other offers. The main rule is that the lubricant meets all the requirements in terms of its characteristics.
- Motul Specific Dexos 2 5W-30 is a synthetic product containing a complete package of additives necessary for the engine;
- Castrol Magnatec 5W-30 A1 is a motor fluid developed using unique technology from Castrol. Characterized by high protective properties;
- Motul X-clean 8100 is a synthetic with stable high viscosity. Forms the highest quality oil film;
- Shell Ultra 5W-30 - significantly extends the life of the main power unit of the machine. Protects against corrosion and helps maintain the cleanliness of the internal structural elements of the motor.
Generals Motors accepts the use of products from these manufacturers. Therefore, the owner of a Chevrolet Cruze has almost complete freedom of action. No strict conditions or rules, only recommendations on characteristics.
What kind of fluid do car owners fill in the Chevrolet Cruze?
To change the engine oil in a Chevrolet Cruze, you need to acquire: a 5-liter canister of new fluid, an oil filter, and a new rubber gasket for the plug on the crankcase. The replacement procedure is no different from replacement on other brands of cars. The article number of the original filter is 96879797, and the factory-type engine oil is 1942003. Before switching to another fluid for car engine components and assemblies, it would not be superfluous to familiarize yourself with what oil is best to fill in the Chevrolet Cruze 1.6, 1.9, according to reviews from car owners:
Owners of the sedan note the confident and stable operation of the power unit with GM Dexos 2 5W-30 engine oil, which is recommended by General Motors engineers. But in some cases it is more expedient and more economical to switch to a similar product from other manufacturers.
According to the manufacturer's recommendations, it is necessary to change little in the engine of a Chevrolet Cruze approximately every 15,000 kilometers. Replacement is part of the machine's scheduled routine maintenance.
Control panel for replacing and monitoring engine oil
Every motorist must ensure compliance with the frequency of certain events. When a deadline approaches, the information message “ CHANGE ENGINE OIL", which in Russian means: you need to change the oil urgently.
Urgently - no later than 500 kilometers after the first warning appears.
How often does it need to be replaced?
In practice, due to certain circumstances, the oil does not mature for its intended duration. What is the reason? Is this the result of using the wrong brand, type or type? Yes and no. This is just one of the options. In the conditions in which the vehicle is operated, additional factors arise that influence the issue of choosing the appropriate replacement time.
The period is rapidly decreasing, since its duration is influenced by such factors:
- quality of fuel used;
- vehicle operating conditions;
- average annual air temperatures;
- chemical composition and viscosity of the oil;
- driver's driving style - throttling;
- dustiness of the area;
- the age of the car, its mileage, engine condition.
Under all equally possible conditions, the service life of consumables can be reduced to 10,000 kilometers or even less.
Color is crucial
The above points should always be taken into account in combination to determine the time to replace worn oil with a new one.
The most effective way to determine the condition of the lubricant is to check its color.
The characteristic darkening and cloudy consistency indicates that time is running out. It does not matter exactly how much time has passed since the last replacement.
What kind of oil to pour into a Chevrolet Cruze engine
When the LED indicator “Code 79” lights up on the dashboard, which indicates that there is insufficient volume in the system.
It's time to start seriously worrying. First, you need to have accurate information about the last procedure: what exactly was poured into the engine, what viscosity and composition. When the information is available, it is not difficult to add the missing amount.
What to do if there is no exactly the same oil
The oil was filled with this type of oil from the factory.
Is it possible to mix oils from different manufacturers? The main requirement is exact compliance with characteristics . If this condition is met, then you don’t have to worry about a specific brand. What to do when there is no one that is absolutely suitable in terms of key characteristics? You can then add any desired viscosity, but not more than one liter. This procedure can be repeated only once per cycle.
For example, it is acceptable to use such varieties ACEA brands :
- A3/B4;
- A3/B3.
There are those that cannot be topped up under any circumstances:
- ACEA A1/B1;
- ACEA A5/A5.
Neglecting this warning can completely damage the engine.
Video about checking original oil
Chevrolet Cruze engine oil volume
After a complete replacement, a little less than two liters should remain from five liters.
- 1.4 and 1.6 = 3.5 liters ,
- 1.8 = 4.5 liters.
Which types are suitable for complete replacement?
Motul X-clean 8100 5w40 oil is deservedly popular.
General Motors has nothing against those oils that have been tested and also have a special certificate under the terms of DEXOS2. Equally, it does not matter who produced the consumables.
Suitable for use:
- GM Dexos 2 5W – 30;
- Motul SPECIFIC DEXOS 2 5W – 30;
- Castrol Magnatec 5W – 30 A1;
- Motul X-clean 8100 5w40;
- any others whose viscosity is 5W – 30.
What you will need to complete the procedure
Now the original oil is made in Russia!
In order for the replacement to take place wisely, taking into account all preventive measures, you must have a full set of consumables:
- engine oil volume 5 liters (original GM Dexos2 5W – 30 It has article 1942003);
- flushing if the brand or viscosity changes;
- Oil filter ( article number 96879797);
- rubber gasket, which is designed for a plug on the engine crankcase ( article number 90528145 or 94525114).
conclusions
If the car is still under warranty, then it is better to contact the dealership to replace the old oil. Specialists will be able to avoid confusion - they will fill in exactly the consumables that are needed. The process is not particularly expensive, but it will obviously be more convenient for the car to receive new lubricating fluid in comfortable conditions adapted for this.
The durability and reliability of the Chevrolet Cruze engine is largely determined by the timeliness of replacement and the quality of the oil being poured. Violation of one of the listed criteria leads to deterioration in lubrication of rubbing surfaces, which may result in scoring. This reduces the life of the power plant and increases the need for expensive overhauls. Therefore, you should use the best recommended oil and observe the replacement intervals.
Choosing oil for a Chevrolet Cruze engine
ATTENTION! A completely simple way to reduce fuel consumption has been found! Don't believe me? An auto mechanic with 15 years of experience also didn’t believe it until he tried it. And now he saves 35,000 rubles a year on gasoline!
Original General Motors oil “Dexos 2” 5W-30
The original oil poured into the Chevrolet Cruze engine from the factory is General Motors “Dexos 2” 5W-30. Reviews from car owners about branded lubricant are very opposite. Some believe that it is not worth buying products from third-party manufacturers, but many argue that the GM “Dexos 2” brand forms a lot of deposits in the engine, even if replaced in a timely manner. The cost of branded oil is about 1500 - 2900 rubles.
General Motors allows the use of oil with viscosity 0w30, 0w40, 5w30, 5w40, 10w30, 10w40. Recommended third-party manufacturers and their product prices are listed in the table below. Any non-branded oil that a car owner wants to fill must have dexos2 approvals.
Oil for Chevrolet Cruze from a third-party manufacturer
Engine oil filling volume
How much oil is required depends on the engine size and replacement method. So, depending on the power plant, you will need:
- for a 1.4 liter engine and 140 hp. filling volume is 4 l;
- for a 1.6-liter and 109-liter power plant, 4.5 liters are required;
- for a 1.6-liter engine with 124 hp. 4.5 l required;
- for the most powerful power unit of 1.8 and 141 hp. 4.5 liters required.
When changing brands, it is advisable to flush the engine. Therefore, the required volume of oil can increase to 7-8 liters.
Replacement frequency
The official manufacturer recommends changing General Motors “Dexos 2” 5W-30 oil every 15,000 kilometers or 2 years of operation, whichever comes first. Experienced car owners recommend reducing the replacement interval to 10,000 kilometers. During urban vehicle use, even such a reduction in the lubricant change period may not be enough.
The photo below shows a 2011 f16d engine with the valve cover removed. Its mileage is just over 65,000 kilometers. The oil was used exclusively original and changed every 10 thousand km. Despite this, there is a lot of deposits under the valve cover.
Engine with valve cover removed
For the above reason, if the car is frequently used in city traffic jams, it is recommended to reduce the oil change interval to 5-7 thousand kilometers. A similar rule applies to the use of lubricants from third-party manufacturers. The car owner must determine how much it costs to drive until the next replacement, based on operating conditions and the condition of the fluid being drained.
In addition, changing the engine oil ahead of schedule will be required in the following cases:
- foreign technical fluid has entered the lubricant, for example, antifreeze or slurry poured into the steering wheel;
- the engine overheated;
- the oil froze in winter;
- a crack was found in the box through which lubricant enters the motor;
- spark plugs often fail;
- an increase in the level of lubrication was noticed;
- Water got into the oil.
You can determine the condition of the lubricant by dropping it onto a napkin. You can determine the need for an oil change by comparing the spot to the image below.
Determining the condition of the oil by a stain on a napkin
Normal oil consumption in a Chevrolet Cruze engine
The manufacturer considers oil consumption to be up to 1 liter per 1000 kilometers as normal. Exceeding this indicator indicates the need to repair the power unit.
According to reviews from experienced car owners, engine oil consumption in normal technical condition rarely exceeds 150-200 grams per 1000 km. Usually, during operation, there is enough lubricant from filling to filling, so additional pouring is necessary only on worn-out motors.
Required Tools
In order to successfully change the oil yourself, you need the tools shown in the table below.
Also, for replacement you will need a container for draining waste and rags.
Consumables that will be needed for replacement
- Oil filter, article number 96879797 or 93185674. Its cost is about 480 rubles. You can use a cheaper filter MANN-FILTER HU6122X, the price for which is 350 rubles. Bosch F026407006 has also proven itself well, costing about 250 rubles.
- Rubber gasket for engine oil drain plug. Its article number is 90528145 or 94525114. The cost is in the range of 30-40 rubles.
DIY oil change process on a Chevrolet Cruze
Change the engine oil according to the instructions below.
- Warm up the engine.
- Raise the car on a lift or install it above the inspection hole.
- Open the hood.
Appearance of the engine compartment
- Go down into the viewing hole.
- Place a container under the drain plug.
- Using a ratchet with an extension, unscrew the drain plug.
Unscrewing the drain plug
- Remove the plug and visually assess the condition of the drained oil. It should be taken into account that how much liquid will drain depends on its temperature.
Oil draining process
- Change the sealing gasket on the drain plug
Replacing the gasket
- Unscrew the cover with the oil filter housing.
Removing the oil filter
- Install a new filter element into the housing.
Installing a new filter element
- Place the new filter in place.
Oil filter installation
- Tighten the oil filter cap using a wrench.
Filter installation process
- Screw in the drain plug.
The process of tightening the drain plug
- Pour fresh oil into the engine.
Filling oil
- Using a dipstick, check the engine oil level.
- Start the engine. If the warning light comes on about insufficient lubricant pressure, then there is nothing to worry about. After some time, the indicator should go out.
- Check the oil level and add if necessary.
