The short answer: Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil with a 0W-20 viscosity is best for most Chevrolet Traverse models produced in recent years. Always verify the exact specification in your owner’s manual or on the oil filler cap for your year and engine.
Understanding the oil spec and engine family
Engine design and year determine the exact oil spec, and Chevrolet typically requires a Dexos1 Gen 2 certified oil for most modern Traverse engines. The recommended viscosity is usually a low-temperature grade that supports fuel efficiency and cold starts, though some climates or configurations may permit a different viscosity. Always follow the manual to avoid warranty or performance issues.
Modern Traverse models (2018–present) with the 3.6L V6
For most of these models, the manufacturer guidance centers on Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil with a 0W-20 viscosity. This combination aids cold-start performance and engine protection under typical driving. In very hot climates or certain specifications, the manual may permit 5W-30, but 0W-20 is the default for many trims and regions. Always confirm with the owner's manual or the engine oil cap for your VIN.
Earlier Traverse generations (2009–2017) and the 3.6L V6
Earlier years also rely on Dexos1 Gen 2-certified oil, with viscosity recommendations that can vary by engine configuration and climate. Some markets or trims may specify 5W-30, while others use 0W-20. Check your exact VIN’s manual and the oil filler cap to ensure you’re using the correct grade and specification.
Recommended oils to buy for your Traverse
Below are the typical options you’ll encounter in manuals and by GM service literature. Use the exact specification listed in your manual for your VIN.
- Dexos1 Gen 2 certified synthetic oil with 0W-20 viscosity (default recommendation for most modern Traverses).
- Dexos1 Gen 2 certified synthetic oil with 5W-30 viscosity (per manual for certain climates, engines, or trims).
- Conventional oil is generally not recommended for modern Traverses, unless your manual explicitly allows it for a specific model year or condition.
In practice, 0W-20 Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil is the safest default for most owners, with 5W-30 as an alternative only when specified by the manual.
Oil brands that meet Dexos1 Gen 2
Choosing a reputable, Dexos1 Gen 2 certified brand helps ensure engine protection and warranty compliance. The following brands offer oils that commonly meet Dexos1 Gen 2 specifications.
- Mobil 1 (0W-20 or 5W-30 options, Dexos1 Gen 2 certified depending on product line)
- Castrol (0W-20 or 5W-30, Dexos1 Gen 2 certified for applicable products)
- Valvoline (SynPower and other lines, Dexos1 Gen 2 certified)
- Pennzoil (Platinum and Ultra Platinum lines, Dexos1 Gen 2 certified)
- AMSOIL (Signature Series, often available in Dexos1 Gen 2 certified formulations)
When shopping, look for the Dexos1 Gen 2 certification on the oil bottle or the product data sheet to ensure compatibility with GM engines.
Oil change intervals and related tips
Interval guidance depends on oil type and driving conditions. Here are general guidelines to keep in mind.
- With synthetic Dexos1 Gen 2 oil, the typical change interval is about 7,500–10,000 miles under normal driving conditions, per the manual.
- Under severe driving conditions—short trips, extreme temperatures, frequent idling, or heavy towing—consider shortening the interval to about 3,000–5,000 miles.
- If you use conventional oil (only if explicitly allowed by the manual for your VIN), expect shorter intervals, roughly 3,000–5,000 miles.
Always reset or maintain your oil-life monitoring system, and consult dealership guidance if you do a lot of stop-and-go driving in extreme conditions.
Bottom line
For most Chevy Traverse owners, using Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil with a 0W-20 viscosity is the best default choice. Verify the exact specification for your year, trim, and climate in the owner’s manual or on the oil cap, and select a reputable brand that offers Dexos1 Gen 2 certified products. Adhering to the recommended oil type and change intervals helps protect engine performance and warranty coverage over time.
Summary
The Traverse generally thrives on Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil, most often at 0W-20, with 5W-30 as an acceptable alternative if the manual permits. Always confirm the exact spec for your vehicle’s year and engine, choose a reputable brand, and follow the recommended change intervals to keep the engine running smoothly.
What year to stay away from Traverse?
Model Years with the Most Reported Issues
2009 to 2012 are the core years to avoid. Across the web, you'll find many negative Traverse owner reports regarding first-generation models. 2011 is widely considered the worst year of them all due to significant engine and transmission issues.
How much does it cost to replace a timing chain on a Traverse?
The average cost for a Chevrolet Traverse Timing Chain Tensioner Replacement is between $2,958 and $4,005. Labor costs are estimated between $2,196 and $3,222 while parts are priced between $762 and $783.
What oil brand does Chevrolet recommend?
General Motorsrecommends ACDelco dexos1 full synthetic as your Chevy Silverado 1500's oil. However, the best oil for a Chevy Silverado 1500 depends on the age and engine in your truck. The top Chevy Silverado 1500 oil is ACDelco dexos1 SAE 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil for the 5.3L and 6.2L gasoline engines.
What kind of oil does a Chevy Traverse 3.6 take?
5W-30
The recommended oil for the 3.6L V6 in the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse is a dexos1™-approved full synthetic oil (commonly 5W-30); always check the owner's manual for the exact specification.