Regular oil changes are crucial for maintaining the engine performance and longevity of your 2016 Chevy Trax. As one of Chevy’s popular compact SUVs, the Trax delivers efficiency and reliability, and keeping up with routine maintenance ensures it continues running smoothly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of performing an oil change on your 2016 Chevy Trax, including recommended oil types, service intervals, and step-by-step DIY instructions.
Why Is Regular Oil Changing Important for the 2016 Chevy Trax?
Changing your vehicle’s oil is essential for several reasons:
- Engine Protection: Fresh oil lubricates the engine components, preventing metal-to-metal contact and reducing wear.
- Heat Dissipation: Engine oil helps cool critical engine parts, preventing overheating.
- Contaminant Removal: As oil circulates through the engine, it collects dirt, debris, and sludge that could otherwise cause engine damage.
Regular oil changes also improve fuel efficiency and maintain overall engine health. Neglecting this simple maintenance task could lead to costly repairs down the road, which is why it’s vital to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Recommended Oil Type for the 2016 Chevy Trax
The 2016 Chevy Trax requires Dexos1™ 5W-30 full synthetic oil. This oil is specifically designed to meet the engine’s needs and offer superior protection in both hot and cold weather conditions. Synthetic oils also last longer and provide better lubrication than conventional oils, making them the recommended choice for most modern vehicles.
Check your Trax’s owner manual to confirm the correct oil type and quantity, but typically, the 1.4L Turbo engine in the 2016 model requires around 4.2 quarts of oil.
How Often Should You Change the Oil in a 2016 Chevy Trax?
Chevrolet recommends changing the oil in your 2016 Chevy Trax every 7,500 miles or every 12 months, whichever comes first. However, if you frequently drive in extreme conditions—such as towing, frequent stop-and-go driving, or in very hot or cold climates—it’s best to change the oil more often, around every 5,000 miles.
DIY Oil Change for the 2016 Chevy Trax
For those who prefer to handle basic maintenance tasks themselves, performing an oil change on your Chevy Trax is relatively simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need:
- 4.2 quarts of Dexos1™ 5W-30 full synthetic oil
- A new ACDelco PF2257G oil filter
- Oil filter wrench
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Jack and jack stands
- Socket wrench set
Step-by-Step Oil Change Process:
- Warm Up the Engine: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to warm up the oil, making it easier to drain.
- Lift the Vehicle: Safely lift the front of your Chevy Trax using a jack and secure it with jack stands to provide access to the undercarriage.
- Drain the Old Oil: Locate the oil drain plug under the engine and place an oil drain pan beneath it. Using a socket wrench, remove the drain plug and allow the old oil to completely drain into the pan.
- Remove the Oil Filter: While the oil is draining, use an oil filter wrench to remove the old oil filter. Be cautious as some oil may still be trapped in the filter.
- Install the New Oil Filter: Before installing the new oil filter, apply a small amount of fresh oil to the rubber gasket on the new filter. Hand-tighten the filter until snug.
- Replace the Drain Plug: Once the oil has finished draining, reinstall the oil drain plug and tighten it securely with a wrench.
- Add New Oil: Remove the oil cap on top of the engine, insert a funnel, and pour in 4.2 quarts of Dexos1™ 5W-30 synthetic oil.
- Check the Oil Level: Use the dipstick to check the oil level. Add more oil if needed to ensure the oil level is correct.
- Reset the Oil Life Monitoring System: To ensure your Trax reminds you of your next oil change, reset the oil life monitor following the steps in your owner’s manual.
Benefits of Regular Oil Changes for the 2016 Chevy Trax
Keeping up with regular oil changes for your 2016 Chevy Trax provides several key benefits, including:
- Improved Engine Performance: Clean oil keeps your engine parts running smoothly, reducing friction and wear.
- Extended Engine Life: Regular oil changes prevent sludge buildup, which could harm the engine over time.
- Better Fuel Economy: A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently, which can improve fuel mileage.
- Prevention of Major Repairs: Consistent oil changes prevent costly engine repairs, saving you money in the long run.
Professional Oil Change Services
If you’re not comfortable performing an oil change on your own, many Chevrolet dealerships and certified service centers offer oil change specials and packages. These services often include additional maintenance checks, such as:
- Fluid level checks
- Brake inspections
- Tire pressure adjustments
- Battery health evaluations
Relying on professionals ensures that your vehicle receives top-notch care and that any potential issues are spotted early.
Conclusion
Maintaining your 2016 Chevy Trax through regular oil changes is essential to ensure its longevity and performance. Whether you choose to perform the oil change yourself or take your vehicle to a trusted professional, following the correct oil type and change intervals will keep your engine running smoothly. With proper care, your Chevy Trax will continue to provide reliable and efficient service for many years.