Oldsmobile 2001 Alero - Manual (Page 256)

6-18
As in the chart shown previously, SAE 5W - 30 is best for
your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 10W - 30 if it’s
going to be 0
_F ( - 18
_C) or above. These numbers on an
oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use
other viscosity oils, such as SAE 20W
- 50.
NOTICE:
Use only engine oil with the American Petroleum
Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines
starburst symbol. Failure to use the
recommended oil can result in engine damage not
covered by your warranty.
GM Goodwrench
R
oil meets all the requirements for
your vehicle.
If you are in an area where the temperature falls below
- 20
_F ( - 29
_C), consider using either an SAE 5W - 30
synthetic oil or an SAE 0W - 30 oil. Both will provide
easier cold starting and better protection for your engine
at extremely low temperatures.
Engine Oil Additives
Don’t add anything to your oil. The recommended oils
with the starburst symbol are all you will need for good
performance and engine protection.
When to Change Engine Oil
Your vehicle has a computer that lets you know when to
change your engine oil. This is not based on mileage, but
on engine revolutions and engine operating temperature.
When the computer has calculated that the oil needs
changing, the GM Oil Life System
t will indicate that a
change is necessary. The mileage between oil and filter
changes will vary depending on how you drive your
vehicle
-- usually between 3,000 miles (5 000 km) and
12,500 miles (20 000 km) since your last oil and filter
change. Under severe conditions, the system may come on
before 3,000 miles (5 000 km). Never drive your vehicle
more than 12,500 miles (20 000 km) or 12 months
(whichever occurs first) without an oil change.
The system won’t detect dust in the oil. So, if you drive in
a dusty area, be sure to change your oil and filter every
3,000 miles (5 000 km) or sooner. Remember to reset the
CHANGE OIL light whenever the oil is changed.