Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2012 Chevrolet Impala V6-3.6LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Engine Oil
Selecting the Right Engine Oil
Selecting the right engine oil depends on both the proper oil specification and viscosity grade:
Specification
Use and ask for engine oils with the dexos1 certification mark. Oils meeting the requirements of the vehicle should have the dexos1 certification mark on the container. This certification mark indicates that the oil has been approved to the dexos1 specification.
This vehicle was filled at the factory with dexos1-approved engine oil.
Notice: Use only engine oil that is approved to the dexos1 specification or an equivalent engine oil of the appropriate viscosity grade. Engine oils approved to the dexos1 specification will show the dexos1 symbol on the container. Failure to use the recommended engine oil or equivalent can result in engine damage not covered by the vehicle warranty. If you are unsure whether the oil is approved to the dexos1 specification, ask your service provider.
Use of Substitute Engine Oils if dexos1 is unavailable: In the event that dexos1-approved engine oil is not available at an oil change or for maintaining proper oil level, you may use substitute engine oil displaying the API Starburst symbol and of SAE 5W-30 viscosity grade. Use of oils that do not meet the dexos1 specification, however, may result in reduced performance under certain circumstances.
Viscosity Grade
SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50.
Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29οΏ½C (-20οΏ½F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos1. "Specification" earlier in this section for more information.
Engine Oil Additives/Engine Oil Flushes
Do not add anything to the oil. The recommended oils with the dexos1 specification and displaying the dexos1 certification mark are all that is needed for good performance and engine protection.
Engine oil system flushes are not recommended and could cause engine damage not covered by the vehicle warranty.
What to Do with Used Oil
Used engine oil contains certain elements that can be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer. Do not let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly dispose of clothing or rags containing used engine oil. the manufacturer's warnings about the use and disposal of oil products.
Used oil can be a threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all the oil from the filter before disposal. Never dispose of oil by putting it in the trash or pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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