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 the operating instructions for the Chevrolet Cruze 1.6, 1.9 are not strictly linked 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.

Chevrolet Cruze 1.6 is a middle-class car, very popular on the Russian market. The car is no longer officially for sale, and today it is in demand on the supported market. Most owners of such cars prefer to maintain them on their own, not wanting to pay for expensive repairs. At the very least, you can perform basic procedures yourself, for example, pour new oil into the engine. But before that you need to choose the right oil. This issue is given special attention in this article. The material indicates the recommended parameters and brands of oils separately for each model year of the Chevrolet Cruze with a 1.6-liter engine, starting from 2009.

Model range Chevrolet Cruze J300 2009

• Recommended viscosity depending on ambient temperature (season):
• For any season – 10W-40, 15W-40, 5W-40
• For winter conditions – 0W-40, 0W-30, 5W-40
• For summer conditions – 20W-40, 25W-40
• Quality class according to API standard: for gasoline engines - SM
• Recommended brands – Xado, Castrol, ZIK, Kixx, Lukoil, Valvoline, Mobile.

Model range 2010:

• Recommended SAE viscosity parameters:
• All-season: 10W-40, 5W-40, 15W-40
• Winter: 0W40, 5W-40
• Summer:20W-40, 20W-40
• Recommended oil - synthetic, semi-synthetic
• Recommended brands – Castrol, Xado, Mobile, Shell, Lukoil, GT-Oil, ZIK, Valvoline.

Model range 2011

• Recommended viscosity parameters according to SAE class:
• All-season: 5W-40, 10W-40, 10W-50, 15W-40
• Winter: 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-50
• Summer: 20W-40, 25W-40, 25W-50
• By API class: for gasoline engines - SM
• Recommended oil: synthetic, semi-synthetic
• Recommended brands: ZIK, Shell, Lukoil, Castrol, Valvoline, Xado, Mobile

Model range 2012

• Recommended viscosity parameters depending on temperature:
• All-season: 10W-50, 5W-40, 15W-40
• Winter: 0W-40, 5W-50
• Summer: 20W-40, 25W-50
• Recommended brands: Shell, Mobile, Castrol, Lukoil, ZIK, Xado, GT-Oil, Valvoline

Model range 2013:

• Recommended parameters for SAE class:
• All-season: 10W-50, 15W-40, 15W-50
• Winter: 0W-40, 0W-50
• Summer: 20W-40, 25W-50
• By API class: for gasoline engines - SN
• Recommended oil: synthetic
• Recommended – Mobile, Castrol, ZIK, Shell, Xado.

Model range 2014

• Recommended parameters for SAE class:
• All-season: 15W-50, 10W-50, 15W-40
• Winter: 0W-40, 0W-50
• Summer: 20W-40, 25W50
• By API class: For gasoline engines - SN
• Recommended oil: synthetic
• Recommended brands – Xado, Shell, Castrol, Mobile

Conclusion

If financial capabilities allow, it is better to buy original oil. But we must admit that today this is not always advisable, given the many cheaper analogues. The main thing is that their parameters meet the recommended ones.

Oil change video

The first or next maintenance has arrived, and then the question arises: what to do, what to buy, what to do. We will try to answer all these questions in detail in this article and show you how to choose oil for a Chevrolet Cruze.

When it comes time to change the engine oil and filter in a car engine, car owners are often lost in choice, due to the huge range of auto chemicals, and cannot choose the right oil for their car. Properly selected oil, as well as its timely change, will preserve the car’s engine throughout its entire operation.

Let's take a closer look at how to choose the right engine oil, using a popular car as an example.

Oil for Chevrolet Cruze (Chevrolet Cruze)

This car, like everyone else, has a book: “Operation Manual”.

Open the book and find the “Service and Maintenance” section. On the page you will see the manufacturer’s recommendations:

• Oil tolerance
• Recommended viscosity
• Quality of motor oils.

Let's see more specifically.

This CRUZE vehicle has the following approval:

GM-LL-A-025 with gasoline engine.

ACEA A3/B3

ACEA A3/B4

API SM

ACEA C3 - diesel engines.

On the canisters it looks like this:

Oil viscosity should be considered with the following parameters:

5w30, 5w40 at temperatures up to -25 2.

0w40 and 0w30 for temperatures up to -25 and below.

It is necessary to select oil in accordance with tolerances and viscosity. Usually all these parameters are written on oil labels. Let's look at a specific example of motor oils. From the LIqui Moly line, 2 oil options are suitable for these parameters.

Synthetic 100% PAO synthetics - the highest quality oil, will extend the life of the engine. See description for more details.

Please note that the tolerances on the canister and viscosity coincide with the manufacturer's recommendations. See the picture below.

This is exactly how, and no other way, you need to select oil and pour it into the car engine.

It is very important to fill the oil in accordance with the tolerances given by the manufacturer, because engine cleanliness and proper operation will extend the life of the car for many many years.

Mixing oils of different brands in a Chevrolet Cruze engine

The question often arises: is it possible to add oil from different brands, or mix it with each other? The CHEVROLET manufacturer states the following in the service book: If motor oils of different brands meet the requirements for tolerances and viscosity, they can be mixed.

Very often, car dealers oblige car owners to fill only with the oil that is recommended in their service center, citing the fact that if you fill with oil from another manufacturer, you will be void of the warranty. They do not have the right to do this, since the car manufacturer makes it clear that you have the right to fill in the brand of motor oil that you like, if it is correctly selected in accordance with the recommendations specified in the car’s service book.

Please note. The book strictly states that adding oil to the Chevrolet Cruze ACEA A1/B1 and A5/B5 is strictly prohibited, even 1 liter.

Take care of your car and it will serve you for a long time.

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

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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.

Changing the oil is one of the most important procedures in engine maintenance. It is important to know what kind of oil to fill in a Chevrolet Cruze so that you use the right brand. At the factory, parts are developed taking into account the characteristics of the oil that will be poured into this model. If you want to choose a different type or brand, buy only liquids that are similar in properties.

Types of motor oils

There are three types of oils:

1. Mineral. The advantage of this type is its low cost. The properties are very viscous, well suited for cars with a mileage of more than 150 thousand km. The disadvantage is that it needs to be changed frequently, every 9-10 thousand km. At high temperatures it loses its properties and cannot withstand engine overheating.
2. Semi-synthetic. Mineral base with synthetic additives. Consumers choose this type to save on synthetics.
3. Synthetic. The best engine oil for Chevrolet Cruze. Compared to previous types, it has many advantages: long service life, lubricates well. Does not lose its properties at low temperatures and is resistant to overheating. The only drawback is the high cost.

Advice! When you switch from one manufacturer to another, the main thing is to find a liquid with the same characteristics. Mixing different types is highly discouraged.

What to fill in a Chevrolet Cruze

The best oil for Chevrolet Cruze is with a viscosity of 5W-30. This is an all-season liquid, suitable for summer and winter. It is recommended to use it from -25 to +20 degrees. The 5W-40 marking means that the liquid can withstand temperatures from -25 to +35 degrees. You can choose the viscosity that suits your region.

Ideal for this car:

If you decide to change the viscosity or brand, it is better to use a flush to remove any remaining old fluid from the engine.

Oil volume

Lack of fluid in the engine is a cause for concern. Different engines consume oil differently. Some engines need topping up 1-2 times between replacements, and some require more. If you notice that the engine begins to ask for more fluid than before, this is a reason to look for the cause.

On 1.4 and 1.6 liter engines, the volume of technical fluid is 3.5 liters. For a 1.8 liter engine - volume is 4.5 liters. It is recommended to purchase an additional 1 liter for refilling.

How to check the level

If you don’t know how to check the oil level in a Chevrolet Cruze, read our instructions:

1. Park the car on a level surface.
2. Turn off the engine and wait 10 minutes. During this time, all the oil will drain from the channels and parts. If you do not pay attention to this point, most likely the level will be low and you will have to add fluid. As a result, this will lead to a critical level and compression of the seals.
3. Under the hood, locate the dipstick that sticks out from the cylinder block. Take it out and wipe it with a clean cloth. Put it back in.
4. Take out the dipstick and find two notches on it - minimum and maximum. The normal level is in between.
5. If the level is below the minimum, you need to add more fluid.

How often does it need replacement?

• driving conditions;
• driving style;
• fuel quality;
• ambient temperature;
• quality of technical fluid;
• quality of roads (their dustiness).

The level and quality of engine oil should be checked periodically. If it darkens and becomes cloudy, then it’s time to change it.

You can come to the official dealer for technical oil with your own consumables, if this is not prohibited by the rules in your city. You can decide for yourself which oil is best to fill in the Chevrolet Cruze, and not use what dealers usually fill.

Each car enthusiast must decide for himself which oil is best for the Chevrolet Cruze, since it depends on the degree of wear of parts, driving style, and operating conditions.