So, you're driving a new C7 and it's time to get the oil changed. Read your manual. You need to use a Dexox 1 APPROVED oil, probably 5W-30. Here's why:
What you need to know about dexos™
GM manufactures cars and trucks in 34 countries and sells them in over 140 countries. These vehicles contain an array of more than 20 different engine sizes. To function well and to last a long time, these increasingly high-performance engines need a consistently high-quality oil, and that quality and uniformity needs to be available anywhere in the world.
The dexos™ specification is uniquely designed to complement the exacting requirements of GM's advanced engine technology. The specification has gone through an extensive developmental and testing process. It requires a number of proprietary tests that are not included in current industry standards and sets performance criteria at a level that exceeds many current standards. The result is a high performance fluid providing significant wear protection, improved piston cleanliness, a reduction in volatility and oil consumption, enhanced aeration control for improved fuel efficiency, and better oxidation properties.
GM has found that using substandard oil can affect engine performance and, in the worst-case scenario, may damage or harm the engine. Only licensed dexos™ products have been certified by GM to meet the dexos™ specification. Only officially licensed products have gone through GM's rigorous testing process, are monitored for quality, and are recommended for use in GM vehicles. Unlicensed product quality and suitability for GM vehicles cannot be guaranteed and, therefore, use of unlicensed products may result in lower levels of performance and engine damage not covered under warranty.
dexos™ is recommended by GM for use in all its vehicles except those with Duramax diesel engines requiring the use of API CJ-4 engine oil. dexos™ is fully backward-compatible and can be used in older vehicles.
dexos1™ is designed for use with gasoline engines and replaces GM-LL-A-025, GM6094M and GM4718M.
dexos2™ is designed for use with light-duty diesel engines and replaces GM-LL-B-025 and GM-LL-A-025.
The dexos™ specification and trademark are exclusive to General Motors, LLC. The Center for Quality Assurance administers the dexos™ licensing program for GM, and also publishes and monitors licensed dexos™ products to assist consumers in making informed decisions when purchasing engine oil to service their vehicle. To view the list of officially-licensed dexos™ brands, click on the Licensed dexos™ Brands page.
If you are an oil manufacturer or marketer who wants to initiate the licensing process, please see the Licensing Program page to begin the licensing process.
For a complete list of APPROVED manufacturers of DEXOS, click this link:
