What is Dexos Oil?
Dexos oil is a specification developed and licensed by General Motors (GM) to ensure high-quality engine oils that meet specific performance and protection standards. It's not a brand but a certification indicating that the oil complies with GM's stringent requirements for use in their vehicles. Dexos oil helps maintain engine efficiency, protects against wear, and reduces harmful emissions, making it a reliable choice for drivers of GM vehicles and many others.
Is Dexos Oil the Same as Synthetic Oil?
No, Dexos oil is not the same as synthetic oil, though many synthetic oils meet Dexos specifications. Synthetic oil refers to how the oil is made, involving chemically engineered base oils and additives designed for better performance, stability, and longevity compared to conventional oils.
Dexos is a quality and performance standard that oils, synthetic or conventional, must meet to be approved for GM vehicles. In short, you can find both synthetic and conventional oils that are Dexos-certified, but synthetic oils are often recommended because they tend to perform better under the Dexos requirements.
What is Special About Dexos Oil?
Dexos oil stands out because it meets rigorous criteria set by GM for engine cleanliness, wear protection, fuel efficiency, and emission system compatibility. Oils meeting the Dexos standard must pass a series of tests simulating real-world driving conditions, ensuring they reduce sludge build-up, improve engine durability, and help engines run cleaner. Additionally, Dexos oil helps engines meet stricter environmental regulations by supporting catalytic converter efficiency, reducing harmful pollutants released into the air.
Why Should I Use Dexos Oil?
Using Dexos oil is important, especially if you drive a GM vehicle such as a Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, or Cadillac. It guarantees that the oil protects your engine to the manufacturer's exact standards, preserving warranty coverage and enhancing vehicle longevity.
Even for non-GM vehicles, Dexos oil's high-quality standards provide excellent engine protection and performance. Choosing Dexos-certified oil helps improve fuel efficiency, reduces engine wear, and keeps emissions low, all crucial for a smooth and reliable driving experience.
How Often Do I Need to Change Dexos Oil?
The recommended interval for changing Dexos oil depends on your vehicle model, driving conditions, and oil type. Typically, synthetic Dexos-certified oils allow for longer intervals between changes, often around 7,500 to 10,000 miles. However, conventional Dexos oils may require more frequent changes, around every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.
Always follow your vehicle's owner's manual for specific guidance on oil change intervals and consult your trusted mechanic if you drive under severe conditions like extreme heat, heavy traffic, or frequent short trips.
Schedule an Oil Change at Colonial Chevrolet
Keeping your vehicle in top condition starts with quality oil and timely maintenance. At Colonial Chevrolet in New London, CT, we specialize in servicing Chevy vehicles with the right Dexos-certified oils to ensure your engine runs smoothly and efficiently.
Our expert technicians provide fast, reliable Dexos oil changes tailored to your car's needs, using only the highest quality products. Schedule your next oil change with Colonial Chevrolet today to experience the best care for your vehicle and keep it performing at its peak.