The Chevy Cruze is a fuel-efficient car that can take 4.2 quarts (with a filter) and 3.9 quarts (without a filter). The Cruze is powered by a 1.4-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine that makes 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque. Also, it’s mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
Overall, it’s a great car and in this article, we’re going to cover some surrounding issues regarding oil that will help you to have a smooth ride every time.
So, buckle up and let’s get going-
The Oil You Should Use for Chevy Cruze – Recommended Oil For Cruze
For starters, for any car, synthetic oil is far better than conventional engine oil (mineral oil). And the Chevy Cruze is no exception in this regard. Yes, mineral oil is capable of providing a better lubrication performance but synthetic oil will provide better overall performance and protection.
So, what synthetic oil should you use for your Cruze? The answer is SAE 5W-30 high mileage full synthetic motor oil. This particular engine oil is very popular and to be found in your nearest auto shop or online shops. It’s also recommended by the Cruze manufacturers for its stability, quality, and performance.
Why Exactly Is This Oil Type Better for Chevy Cruze?
1. Improved low-temperature performance
When cold, SAE 5W-30 full synthetic engine oils have a viscosity of 0, but by the time the engine has reached operating temperature, they’ve thickened up to 30. Also, Your Cruze’s engine will last longer and have fewer instances of a thermal breakdown thanks to the product’s low-temperature viscosity grade.
So, as the Chevy Cruze has the viscosity of OW-30 (below – 29), the SAE 5W-30 performs far better than any mineral oil would.
2. Better mileage
The 5W-30 complete synthetic oil is ideal for long-distance driving as it provides up to an unparallel 20,000 miles of protection between every oil change. It also controls the oxidation level thus preventing any oil breakdown while securing a great viscosity.
So, as the Chevy Cruze is a fuel-efficient car, the increased protection adds up to its mileage and gives a smooth performance.
3. Reduces Sludge Build-up
The 5W-30 has fewer impurities than conventional engine oils. So, it also helps to prevent building any oil sludge into your Cruze and extend the engine life.
4. Superior Lubrication
This particular type of oil is the perfect suit for your Cruze’s use as the Cruze has a Turbocharged engine. The 5W-30 ensures superior lubrication without any oil breaking to your Cruze’s engine even if its turbocharged engine gets superhot (as all turbocharged engine does).
When Should You Change Your Oil for Chevy Cruze?
If you are a seasoned motorist, you know the significance of maintaining your vehicle with routine oil changes. Oil changes should be scheduled at regular intervals to provide a well-lubricated engine and a smooth driving experience. The Cruze, like most modern automobiles, features a “check oil” indicator that glows when it’s time to get the engine serviced.
It is best to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, as the check oil light may not always alert you to the need for a change at the right time. The Chevrolet Cruze requires an oil change every 3000 miles or annually, whichever may arrive first.
Oil change intervals for your Cruze will vary depending on the oil type, the year of your car, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Keeping track of how many miles you drive annually is one way to keep your engine running smoothly and effectively throughout its full lifespan.
How Does Timely Oil Change Help Your Cruze?
- The oil in the car serves two purposes: lubricating the engine and cooling it. The Chevy Cruze’s innards are designed to function without causing any unnecessary heat. So, overheating is not a major problem you will face if you change the oil even after the due date.
- On the other hand, protecting the motor from hazardous deposits, grime, and corrosion is another important function of engine oil. And that cannot be helped at all! However, if you maintain the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule then you shouldn’t face any problems.
What if You Don’t Change Oil Within the Recommended Time?
If too much time passes without an oil change, the oil will develop into sludge. As a result, the engine parts will become less heat-resistant and lose their lubricant. And ultimately, engine failure becomes inevitable due to the wear and tear of the engine’s moving parts. So, it is of supreme importance to keep your Cruz running smoothly as butter.
How to Change Oil for Chevy Cruze All By Yourself? (DIY)
Oil changes are important for the longevity and performance of your car. While it’s best to have a professional do it, you can change your own oil if you know how. It’s not difficult and only takes about 30 minutes. Here’s how to do an oil change on a Chevy Cruze.
What You’ll Need:
-4 quarts of oil (we recommend 5W-30)
-Oil filter
-New washer for the drain plug
-Funnel
-Jack and jack stands
-Wrench or socket set
-Paper towels
- Step 1: Warm up the engine. This will help the oil flow better and make it easier to drain. Drive the car around for about 5 minutes or until the engine reaches operating temperature.
- Step 2: Now you’ll need to be able to get underneath the car, so lifting it off the ground is necessary. Place the jack under the frame near the front wheels and jack the car up until the wheels are off the ground. Then, put jack stands under the car for support.
- Step 3: Locate the oil pan. It’s on the bottom of the engine and has a drain plug on the side. Place a large pan or bucket underneath the drain plug to catch the used oil.
- Step 4: Remove the drain plug and let the oil drain out. Use a wrench or socket to remove the plug. Be careful when removing it as it will be hot. Let the oil drain until it stops dripping, which should be about 5-10 minutes.
- Step 5: Replace the drain plug and add the new oil. Put a new washer on the drain plug and screw it back in. Then, open the hood and locate the oil fill cap. It’s usually on the top of the engine. Remove the cap and use a funnel to add the new oil.
- Step 6: Replace the oil filter. The oil filter is usually located near the oil pan. Unscrew the old filter and screw on the new one. But be sure to not overtighten it.
- Step 7: Check for leaks and reset the oil change light. Start the engine and let it run for a minute. Then, check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. If there are no leaks, turn off the engine and reset the oil change light.
There you go. You’re all done!
Chevy Cruze Oil & Filter Change 2011-2015 >> Check out the video below:
Final Thoughts
In this article, we covered some most asked questions by the Chevy Cruz owners and tried to respond in a detailed manner. We hope our findings help you maintain your Cruz without any extra hassle.
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