What brand of engine oil should the LaCrosse use?
2 Answers
The Buick LaCrosse uses original equipment manufacturer (OEM) Mobil engine oil with a grade of 5W30. If you want to change the engine oil during later maintenance, you can choose international brands such as Shell, Mobil, or Castrol. Suitable engine oil grades include 5W-30, 5W-40, and 0W-30. The viscosity of engine oil changes with temperature, so special attention should be paid to its performance under both low and high temperatures. For example, in 5W-30, the first number indicates low-temperature fluidity. 5W represents the ability to withstand temperatures as low as -30°C. The smaller this number, the better the low-temperature fluidity, resulting in smoother cold starts for the car. The latter number represents the kinematic viscosity of the oil at 100°C. A higher value means the oil can maintain its viscosity index better under high temperatures, which can also be understood as better lubrication performance under high-temperature conditions. The method for changing the LaCrosse's engine oil is as follows: Wait for the engine temperature to drop, allowing the oil to flow back into the oil pan. Use a wrench to loosen the oil drain plug and place an oil pan underneath to catch the old oil until it stops flowing. Start the engine and let it run for 30 seconds to allow the oil in the main oil passage to drain. Use a specialized wrench to remove the oil filter. Apply engine oil to the oil seal of the new oil filter and tighten it clockwise by hand. Add the new engine oil through the oil filler cap on the engine valve cover, typically filling about three-quarters of the bottle. Start the engine and let it run for 5 minutes, checking for leaks around the oil drain plug and oil filter. If leaks are found, perform necessary repairs. After stopping the engine, pull out the oil dipstick to ensure the engine oil level is within the standard range.
I've been driving a LaCrosse for several years, and I'm always particular about engine oil selection for regular maintenance. The manual recommends using full synthetic oil with a viscosity of 5W-30 or 0W-20, and it must have dexos certification. I usually use Mobil 1, which keeps the engine running very quietly and maintains stable fuel consumption. I've also tried other brands like Shell Ultra or Castrol Edge, with similar results—the key is not to skimp and buy counterfeit products. Oil quality directly affects engine lifespan. I change it every 8,000 kilometers or so, checking the filter at the same time. Good oil flow during cold starts protects the engine from wear. In short, follow the manufacturer's recommendations, choose viscosity based on local climate, and don't skimp on this small expense.
