The Chevrolet Traverse, often known as the Chevy Traverse, is a popular full-size SUV today. It is due to its cutting-edge features, classy structure, and availability in various eye-catching colors. Since its creation, it has been selling like hotcakes. Chevy Traverse, however, might cause problems if it is not properly maintained, just like other vehicles.
Putting the proper kind and amount of oil in your Chevy is one of the most important maintenance tasks you should carry out to keep it in prime condition. The oil type and capacity matter the most than anything else when it comes to vehicles’ efficiency. This article will cover everything you need to know about Chevy Traverse oil type and capacity. So, read on!
What happens to an engine when the wrong type and amount of oil are used?
Oil is like a lifeline for a car’s engine. The car’s components need quality oil to run smoothly, just like each part of our body depends on blood for proper functioning. Using the wrong type and capacity of oil in your engine can severely damage it. If the oil is too thick, it can cause excess wear on engine parts due to increased friction. If the oil is too thin, it can break down quickly and be less effective at lubricating and protecting engine parts. Conversely, if too much or too little oil is used, this can also lead to excess wear and tear.
Additionally, incorrect oil types and capacities may not protect against high temperatures, which could cause overheating. In some cases, using the wrong oil may result in an engine seizure. It occurs when internal components lock up due to a lack of lubrication caused by improper oil viscosity. The result of a frozen engine is typically costly repairs. It will take you $ 3000 to $ 5000 to replace a seized engine.
What is the recommended oil type and capacity for a Chevy Traverse?
There are, so far, two generations of a Chevy Traverse. The oil type and capacity for each generation are different. It is because the engines and engine designs vary greatly between the first generation (2008-
2017) and second-generation (2018-present). The following tables show the details about the specific oil types and capacities that every Traverse owner should use for each respective model:
Chevy traverse oil type:
| Model Year | Recommended Oil Type |
| Second Generation | |
| 2022 | 5W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil |
| 2021 | 5W-30 Full Synthetic Oil |
| 2020 | 0W-30 (Below -29) Or 5W-30 (All TEMPS) |
| 2019 | SAE 5W-30 |
| 2018 | Full Synthetic 5W-30 |
| First Generation | |
| 2017 | Synthetic Blend SAE 5W-30 Motor Oil |
| 2016 | Full Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil |
| 2015 | SAE 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil |
| 2014 | Full Synthetic 5W-30 |
| 2013 | SAE 5W-30 Engine Oil |
| 2012 | SAE 5W-30 |
| 2011 | SAE 5w-30 Fully Synthetic Motor Oil |
| 2010 | SAE 5W-30 |
| 2009 | 0W-30 (Below -29) Or 5W-30 (All TEMPS) Full Synthetic |
Chevy traverse oil capacity:
| Model Year | Engine Size | Recommended Oil Capacity |
| Second Generation | ||
| 2022 | 3.6L DOHC V-6 | Up To 5 Quarts |
| 2021 | 3.6-Liter V6 | 6 Quarts (With Filter) |
| 2020 | 3.6-Liter V-6 | 6 Quarts (With Filter) |
| 2019 | 2.0 L Engine | 5 Quarts |
| 3.6L DOHC Direct Injection | 6 Quarts | |
| 2018 | 2.0 Liter 4Cylinder | 5 Quarts |
| 3.6-Liter V-6 | 6 Quarts | |
| First Generation | ||
| 2017 | 3.6L V6 DOHC 24-Valve | 5.5 US Quarts (Without Filter)6 Quarts (With Filter) |
| 2016 | 3.6L V6 DOHC 24-Valve LLT | 5.7 Liter |
| 3.6L V6 DOHC 24-Valve AWD 3.6L V6 DOHC 24-Valve LTZ | 5.7 Liter 5.7-6 Liter | |
| 3.6L V6 DOHC 24-Valve LTZ AWD | 5.7-6 Liter | |
| 2015 | 3.6L V-6 DI VVT | 6 Quarts (With Filter) |
| 2014 | 3.6-Liter V6 Engine | 6 Quarts (With Filter) |
| 2013 | 3.6L V6 DOHC 24-Valve | 6.4 Quarts |
| 2012 | 3.6L V6 DOHC 24-Valve | 6 Quarts |
| 2011 | 3.6L V6 DOHC 24-Valve | 5.5 Quarts (With Filter) |
| 2010 | 3.6-L Direct-Injection V6 | 5.5 Quarts (With Filter) |
| 2009 | 3.6L V6 DOHC 24-Valve FWD | 5.5 Quarts (With Filter) |
Tips to determine a good quality engine oil for your Traverse
With so many oil brands in the market, it is challenging to pick the best engine oil for your Chevy Traverse. Hence, we have highlighted some useful tips below to help determine a good quality oil for your vehicle.
Check the viscosity rating:
Viscosity measures an oil’s resistance to flow, and engine oils are rated based on their thickness, such as 5W-30 or 10W-40. It’s important to use the right viscosity of oil for your Chevy. Check your owner’s manual for the right recommendation.
Look for API certification:
API stands for American Petroleum Institute and is a certification that most engine oils should have to ensure it meets certain standards and specifications. When looking for oil, make sure it has the API certification.
Read reviews:
Lastly, pay attention to the reviews to ensure you purchase high-quality motor oil for your Traverse. You can read customer reviews posted online or manually approach people who have used that brand of oil. This method will help you identify the benefits and drawbacks of that particular engine oil.
FAQs
How often does a Chevy Traverse need an oil change?
You must change the oil in your Chevy Traverse every 3,000 to 5000 miles or as specified in your owner’s manual. You should also inspect the oil and Filter at every oil change. Oil should be changed more often if you drive in dusty conditions, tow a trailer, or make frequent short trips.
To sum up:
Whether you have an old Chevy traverse or a brand new model, ensuring that you use the right oil type and capacity can help protect its longevity. Moreover, ensuring your engine is in top shape will help maximize your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, giving you more bang for your buck. This guide has provided you with all the necessary information to ensure that your Chevy Traverse uses the correct oil type and capacity. So, the next time you go for an oil change on your Chevy Traverse, consult the above specifications.
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