The Buick Regal’s modern engines (2011–2017) typically require Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil with a 0W-20 viscosity. Always confirm the exact grade and spec for your engine in the owner's manual or on the under-hood label.
Understanding the right oil for your Regal
The exact specification depends on the model year and engine. Here are reliable ways to confirm the correct oil for your car.
- Check the owner's manual, specifically the Lubrication or Oil section, for the required Dexos specification and viscosity.
- Look at the oil-fill cap and under-hood label; many modern GM engines list the required viscosity (for example, 0W-20) and the Dexos spec there.
- Follow GM's Dexos1 Gen 2 standard and use a certified synthetic oil that meets Dexos1 Gen 2, preferably 0W-20 unless your manual specifies otherwise.
- When in doubt, ask a Buick dealer or a trusted mechanic with your vehicle’s VIN to confirm the exact spec for your engine and climate.
Using the correct oil specification helps protect engine components, support emissions systems, and maintain warranty coverage where applicable.
Dexos1 Gen 2 and 0W-20 explained
Dexos1 Gen 2 is GM’s modern oil specification for many of its engines, intended to provide reliable performance across temperatures when paired with the recommended viscosity. For most 2011–2017 Regals, this means Dexos1 Gen 2 with 0W-20 viscosity. If your manual calls for a different viscosity (such as 5W-30), follow that specification precisely.
Recommended oil for typical Regal configurations
For most 2011–2017 Buick Regals, the standard recommendation is Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil with a viscosity of 0W-20. Always verify the exact grade in your owner's manual or on the under-hood label for your engine and climate.
- 2.0L turbo (turbocharged Ecotec) engines commonly require Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil with 0W-20 viscosity.
- Other engines in the 2011–2017 Regal lineup generally follow the Dexos1 Gen 2 0W-20 guideline; always verify the exact grade in the owner’s manual or under-hood sticker.
Note: If you own a pre-2011 Regal or a model outside the 2011–2017 lineup, consult the specific manual for that generation, as oil specifications can vary by engine and design era.
Maintenance: oil drain intervals and best practices
Regular oil changes with the correct oil type help protect the engine and maintain performance. The following guidelines apply for Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil, with climate and driving style considered.
- Consult the owner’s manual for the official service interval; many modern Regals with synthetic Dexos1 Gen 2 oils are rated around 7,500 miles under normal driving.
- In severe conditions (hot or cold extremes, frequent short trips, towing, or heavy stop-and-go driving), shorten the interval to about 3,000–5,000 miles or the interval recommended by your manual or dealer.
- Always replace the oil filter with a genuine or high-quality equivalent during an oil change.
- Reset or follow the vehicle’s oil-life monitor after service, per the owner’s manual.
Sticking to the recommended oil and drain interval helps protect engine longevity, efficiency, and warranty considerations where applicable.
Additional considerations by model year or engine
If you’re dealing with an older Regal or a different engine option from the 2011–2017 lineup, the oil specification can differ. Always cross-check with the VIN-specific manual or GM’s official documentation. Some older Regals used conventional oils and different viscosities that were standard for their generation.
Summary
In short, for the majority of modern Buick Regals, use Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil with a 0W-20 viscosity, unless your owner’s manual specifies otherwise. Confirm the exact grade for your engine, climate, and model year, and follow the recommended drain intervals. Regular oil changes with the correct oil protect engine health, performance, and warranty status.