Regular oil changes are a vital part of maintaining your 2019 Chevy Equinox. The oil in your engine plays a crucial role in keeping all the moving parts lubricated, reducing wear and tear, and ensuring that your engine runs smoothly. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated, leading to poor engine performance and potentially expensive repairs.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about performing an oil change on your 2019 Chevy Equinox, including recommended oil types, intervals, and how to find the best oil change specials.
Why Regular Oil Changes Matter
Your 2019 Chevy Equinox relies on oil to lubricate its engine components, helping to minimize friction and prevent overheating. Over time, engine oil becomes contaminated with dirt and debris, and its ability to lubricate effectively diminishes. Here’s why regular oil changes are critical:
- Protects Engine Life: Fresh oil helps protect engine parts, reducing wear and tear and prolonging engine life.
- Maintains Fuel Efficiency: Clean oil helps your engine run more efficiently, improving fuel economy.
- Prevents Engine Overheating: Oil helps regulate engine temperature by absorbing excess heat and preventing overheating.
- Reduces Sludge Buildup: Old, dirty oil can turn into sludge, which can clog engine parts and cause severe damage.
Recommended Oil Types for the 2019 Chevy Equinox
Chevrolet recommends using Dexos 1 Gen 2 Full Synthetic Oil for the 2019 Equinox. This synthetic oil is designed to offer better protection and performance compared to conventional oil, particularly in extreme temperatures or when the vehicle is used for towing or heavy loads. Here’s why synthetic oil is often the best choice for your Equinox:
- Enhanced Wear Protection: Synthetic oil resists breakdown and maintains its lubricating properties for longer periods, providing better protection.
- Extended Oil Change Intervals: You can go longer between oil changes with synthetic oil, often up to 7,500 to 10,000 miles.
- Improved Engine Performance: Synthetic oil flows more easily at cold temperatures, ensuring quick lubrication during engine startup.
How Often Should You Change the Oil in a 2019 Chevy Equinox?
Chevy recommends that you change the oil in your 2019 Equinox every 7,500 miles or six months, whichever comes first, when using synthetic oil. However, if you frequently drive in severe conditions, such as in stop-and-go traffic, extreme heat, or cold, you may need to change the oil more often.
To ensure your engine stays protected, follow your vehicle’s Oil Life Monitoring System. This system will alert you when it’s time for an oil change based on your driving conditions, ensuring you don’t miss an important service.
DIY Oil Change for the 2019 Chevy Equinox
If you’re handy and prefer to perform oil changes at home, follow these simple steps to change the oil in your 2019 Chevy Equinox:
- Gather Your Tools and Supplies:
- 5 quarts of Dexos 1 Gen 2 Full Synthetic Oil
- An oil filter (OEM recommended)
- A wrench and oil filter wrench
- A funnel
- A drain pan
- Jack and jack stands (if needed)
- Prepare Your Vehicle: Park your Equinox on a level surface and allow the engine to cool. If needed, use a jack and jack stands to raise the front of the vehicle for better access.
- Drain the Oil: Place the drain pan under the oil drain plug, then use a wrench to loosen the plug. Allow the old oil to drain completely into the pan before replacing the plug.
- Replace the Oil Filter: Use an oil filter wrench to remove the old oil filter. Before installing the new filter, apply a small amount of fresh oil to the filter’s rubber gasket to ensure a proper seal.
- Add New Oil: Insert a funnel into the oil filler hole and pour in the fresh synthetic oil. Once filled, check the oil level using the dipstick and add more if necessary.
- Check for Leaks: After starting the engine and letting it run for a few minutes, check around the oil filter and drain plug for leaks.
Why Visit a Certified Chevrolet Service Center?
While it’s possible to change the oil on your 2019 Chevy Equinox at home, many drivers prefer to visit a Chevrolet-certified service center for the following reasons:
- Trained Technicians: Chevy-certified technicians are experts in working on Chevrolet vehicles, ensuring that your oil change is performed correctly.
- Genuine Parts and Oil: Certified service centers use genuine GM parts and Dexos-approved oil, which meet the specifications recommended by Chevrolet.
- Comprehensive Inspections: Along with your oil change, service centers often include a multi-point inspection to ensure other essential parts of your vehicle are in good condition.
Finding Oil Change Specials for the 2019 Chevy Equinox
Chevy dealerships and certified service centers often run oil change specials that help you save on routine maintenance. Here are some tips for finding the best deals:
- Check the Chevy Website: Chevrolet frequently offers nationwide promotions and coupons for oil changes that can be redeemed at participating dealerships.
- Visit Local Dealerships: Many local Chevy dealerships advertise oil change specials on their websites or through their service departments.
- Use Service Apps: Some Chevrolet dealerships have mobile apps that provide exclusive offers and allow you to schedule oil change appointments conveniently.
Conclusion
Maintaining your 2019 Chevy Equinox with regular oil changes is essential for its long-term performance and durability. Whether you prefer to do it yourself or visit a Chevrolet-certified service center, be sure to use the recommended Dexos 1 Gen 2 Full Synthetic Oil and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for oil change intervals. Regular oil changes will not only keep your engine running smoothly but also help avoid costly repairs in the future.
Take advantage of oil change specials at Chevrolet service centers to save money while keeping your Equinox in top shape.