What type of oil are you using for your chevy equinox engine? The Chevy Equinox is a compact car that can function as a family vehicle and a workhorse.
It is hardly unusual that the subject of which oil type to use should come up frequently, given Equinox’s strict requirements for oil selection.
Every Chevy Equinox owner knows that their engine requires the best oil to function optimally. Regrettably, all oils are not created equally.
Therefore, using the wrong oil can damage your engine and your car in the nearest future.
We understand how severe it can get, so we decide to look at the oil type for chevy equinox you should use for your car. While you might see several types of oil for a car engine, we will explore the best Chevy Equinox oil to use.
There are several things to consider while selecting the best oil for your Chevy Equinox, but synthetic oil is recommended. We will look at the oil capacities and type, so you do not make the wrong choice.
What Type of Oil Does a Chevy Equinox Take?
In summary, a 5W30 synthetic blend is advised for an Equinox. This type of oil has the most extraordinary lifespan and does not deteriorate as quickly as full-synthetic or semi-synthetic oils. Although we have several Chevy Equinox oil types, they all offer unique features with superior performance.
What type of oil does a 2018 Chevy Equinox Take?
There is no conclusive answer to this, but if you use a 2018 Chevy Equinox truck, the appropriate oil will depend on the engine type because they have their drive variants.
For instance, if you use FWD and AWD drive variants, you might consider using SAE 5W-30 viscosity grade oil for 2.0L and 1.6L engines.
On the other hand, if you have a 1.5L engine, SAE 0W-20 viscosity grade oil might be the best option.
We encourage to check our Interesting information about Ecotec 1.4L Turbo Engine Reliability
Follow this video to learn more
What kind of oil does a 2014 Equinox take?
Your 2.4L V6 engine in the 2014 Chevy Equinox produces 184 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque. Moreover, the Equinox engine features a Variable Valve Timing (VVT), which is a mechanism that maximizes power and fuel economy in the engine.
Typically, the car’s oil capacity is 4.7 liters (5 quarts), and the standard oil change interval is 7500 miles (12000 kilometers) for conventional oil and 10000 miles (16000 kilometers) for synthetic blend motor oil.
Chevy Equinox Oil Capacity
Most people tend to be confused about what oil capacity represents. It refers to the amount of oil the engine requires to run optimally.
While there are several oil capacities, we will explore a few models of the Chevy Equinox oil capacities.
| Generation | Oil Capacity | Engine Model | Oil Type |
| First Generation (2004 – 2009) | 4.0 qt | 3.4L V6 engine | SAE 5W-30 |
| 5.5 qt | 3.6L V6 engine | SAE 5W-30 | |
| Second Generation (2009 – 2017) | 5.0 qt | 2.4L L4 Engine | SAE 5W-30, SAE 0W-20 |
| 6.0 qt | 3.6L V6 Engine | SAE 5W-30, SAE 0W-20 | |
| Third Generation (2017 – 2020) | 5.3 qt | L4 Gas Engine FWD | SAE 0W-20 |
| 4.2 qt | L4 Gas Engine AWD | SAE 0W-20 | |
| Fourth Generation (2020 to present) | 4.2 qt | 1.5L L4 Gas Engine FWD | SAE 5W-30, SAE 0W-20 |
| 5.0 qt | 2.0L L4 Gas Engine FWD | ||
| 5.3 qt | 1.6L L4 Diesel Engine | ||
| 5.3 qt | 1.5L L4 Gas Engine AWD | ||
| 6.0 qt | 2.0L L4 Gas Engine FWD |
Note: Third generation Chevy Equinox cars have been produced since 2017, with different models sold in Mexico, Canada, and the United States.
However, in Australia, China, South America, and the Middle East, the third generation Chevy model is referred to as Holden Equinox. Officially, you cannot find it on the Russian market.
Does the 2015 and 2017 Chevy Equinox Use the Same Oil Type?
Both models have a 5-quart oil capacity, but the 2017 Chevy Equinox has an extended oil change interval of 10,000 miles (12 months) against 7500 miles (9 months) for the 2015 model.
Both Chevy Equinox models use the same oil type despite having different oil capacities. The 2015 Chevy Equinox has a capacity of 7.7 quarts, whereas the 2017 Chevy Equinox has a capacity of 7.4 quarts.
2020 Chevy Equinox Oil Type
Now we have come to the essential part of this article because using the wrong oil in your chevy Equinox engine can damage it.
Chevy Equinox has spawned through four different generations. If you are new to Chevy Equinox, here are the four generations to help you determine the best oil for your truck.
- First Generation – the first generation includes Chevy Equinox cars from 2004 to 2009 and uses GM6094M compliant engine oils. Besides this, they also have the API Starburst mark with SAE 5W-30 weight.
- Second Generation ranges from 2009 to 2017, with the engine working well with several oils. In addition, it has an SAE 5W-30 oil weight.
- Third Generation and Fourth generation – the third-generation ranges from 2018 to 2020, whereas the fourth generation starts from 2020 upward. Both engines in this generation use the same oil and come with different oil capacities.
Viscosity of Oil in Chevy Equinox Engine
Oil viscosity or oil weight means how well oil flow at a particular temperature. Usually, you will find the weight or viscosity mentioned on the oil bottle you purchase.
These values include 20W-50, 5W-30, and 0W-30. Besides this, there is other viscosity. Notwithstanding, all Chevy Equinox car models use oil with a viscosity value of SAE 5W-30.
However, if you live in areas with extreme cold, especially with a temperature falling below 20°F (29°C) can use SAE 0W-30 oil.
Moreover, both engine types can offer your car engine a smooth starting while protecting the engine. Conversely, there are certain exemptions.
A few Chevy Equinox models from 2018 and 2020 that uses gasoline engines use engine oils with different weight or viscosity.
If you have a 2018 Chevy Equinox that uses gasoline engines, here is the viscosity you should use. The best option for the LYX 1.5 L engine is SAE 0W-20 engine oil.
However, the 2020 Chevy Equinox LTG 2.0L L4 engine uses SAE 5W-30 engine oil. You can also use SAE 0W-20 engine oil for the LYX L4 engine.
When Should You Change the Oil in a Chevy Equinox Engine?
Every Chevy Equinox model comes with a unique computer system that informs you when to change the oil filter and engine oil.
Commonly, several factors might be involved before you see this alert. These factors include the average engine temperature and engine revolutions.
Once the computer system discovers that your Chevy Equinox engine oil life has deteriorated so that it can damage the engine, it will display a “Change Engine Oil Soon” message on the dashboard.
However, it is advisable to change your Equinox oil after the next 1000km after receiving this notification.
Nevertheless, driving under the best condition, you might not see this message pop up throughout the year. Peradventure, you did not see this popup; it does not mean you will not change the oil.
Alternatively, you can change it every year to avoid any unforeseen circumstances.
If your system does not display the message, you can reset the system when changing the oil. With this, your car can work optimally and prolong your engine.
How to Check the Oil Level in a Chevy Equinox Car Engine?
It is proper to check your engine oil frequently, especially at least once a year. If you have been taking your Chevy car to the repairer to change the oil, you can do it yourself by following the steps below.
However, if you do not feel comfortable doing it, we advise you to take it to a professional mechanic.
- Switch your car engine off. It is preferable to allow your engine to cool off for at least 2 hours if you recently used your car. However, if it is urgent and you still want to check the engine oil, you should wait 15 minutes before checking it.
- Remove the dipstick from the oil engine port. Take a paper towel to wipe the residual oil. Insert the dipstick again to check the level.
- You need to top the oil if the dipstick shows that the oil is below the cross-hatched area. Here, you can add one quart of the approved oil for your car engine.
- When adding the oil, ensure you do not pass the optimum level; else, you might face another problem.
- You can insert the dipstick once you are sure you have reached the oil level.
Performing regular maintenance for your Chevy Equinox car is essential as it involves checking different fluids, including power steering, brake, clutch, oil, and transmission.
Notwithstanding, always refer to your manufacturer manual when performing routine maintenance. That is the only way to ensure you do not damage your car engine.
How to Reset the Oil Level for Your Chevy Equinox Car Engine?
Each Chevy Equinox model comes equipped with an “Engine Oil Life System” that analyzes the ideal time to replace the filter and oil, depending on how you use the car.
Therefore, resetting the system is critical to enable it to analyze when to change the next oil. Although there are several ways to do this, here is the best way you can use to reset your oil system.
- Turn your car ignition key ON without keeping switching on the engine.
- Press and release the accelerator thrice within 5 seconds as it makes the engine oil light flash. Once the light flash, it means your engine system is resetting.
- Turn the key off once the light stops flashing.
- With this, you have successfully reset the oil level for your Chevy Equinox car engine.
Top Questions(FAQs)
How much oil does a 2.4L Chevy Equinox take?
Your 2.4L Chevy Equinox care can take as much as 5 to 8 quarts of oil. For instance, if you have a 6-cylinder engine, you need about 6 quarts of oil.
On the other hand, a 4-cylinder engine requires a minimum of 5 quarters of oil for your engine.
The Chevy Equinox is powered by a 2.4L inline-four engine that generates 182 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque.
How Often Should You Change the Oil in a Chevy Equinox?
An oil change is necessary for your car frequently. You would need to change the oil in your Chevy Equinox car at least every 7,500 miles. According to Chevrolet, you need to change your oil and filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.
In other words, based on your driving habits, you should replace the oil at least once each 5,000 miles or once every 10,000 miles.
Meanwhile, if you are traveling in an area with high temperatures, you should change your Chevy Equinox oil type every 6 months or 5,000 miles.
Does Chevy Equinox require synthetic oil?
You must use the oil type for your Chevy car. Most Equinox engines require synthetic blend oil. However, the Equinox has two different engines, a 2.4 L and a 3.6 L.
Therefore, it is critical to use the oil type and quantity in your engine to eliminate the untimely wearing of your engine.
However, the primary advantage of using synthetic oils in a vehicle like the Chevy Equinox is that they offer more lubrication compared to other oils.
Because synthetic oils have a higher viscosity index, they stay liquid at lower temperatures while offering better lubrication to all the engine parts.
Final Thoughts
Using the wrong oil for your car engine can result in engine failure. Regrettably, this can damage any warranty you have, especially if you decide to do it yourself.
Undoubtedly, your car requires oil change from time to time to maintain its performance.
While many ask if synthetic oil is suitable for Chevy Equinox engines, we cannot conclude because Chevy cars are available in different generations.
However, you should change your oil and filter for every 3000 to 5000 miles you drive. With this, you can prolong your car engine and improve its overall performance.