GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Engine Oil and Oil Filter Change

Replace the engine oil and the engine oil filter.

Engine Oil Quality

Oils of the proper quality for the vehicle can be identified by looking for the STARBURST symbol. The STARBURST symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API), and is preferred for use in gasoline engines.

Engine Oil Viscosity

The recommended oil viscosity for this vehicle when the temperature is above 18°C (0°F) is SAE 10W 30.

Engine oil viscosity (thickness) has an effect on the fuel economy and the cold-weather operation (engine starting and oil flow). Lower viscosity engine oils can provide better fuel economy and cold-weather performance. However, higher temperature weather conditions require higher viscosity engine oils for satisfactory lubrication. When the temperature will be very cold and never above 16°C (60°F), SAE 5W 30 should be used in all models. SAE 20W 40 or oils of other viscosity rating or quality designations are not recommended at anytime.

Notice: Using oils of any viscosity other than those recommended could result in engine damage. When choosing an oil, consider the range of temperatures the vehicle will be operated in before the next oil change. Then, select the recommended oil viscosity.

Oil Filter

Remove the old filter by turning counterclockwise. Clean the gasket sealing area on the engine oil filter mounting surface. (If the engine has an adapter base, make sure threaded nipple or bolt is properly tightened.) Lightly oil gasket with clean oil and install filter. After the oil filter gasket contacts the oil filter mounting surface, tighten 3/4 to 1 full turn. When necessary, use a cap type wrench, AC Delco OF17W or equivalent or strap type wrench with swivel handle to insure proper installation. With engine oil level at proper level, run engine three minutes and thoroughly check filter area for leaks.

Chassis Lubrication

Lubricate transaxle shift linkage. Lubricate parking brake cable guides, underbody contact points and linkage.

Tire and Wheel Inspection and Rotation

Rotate the tires to equalize the wear and obtain maximum tire life. Refer to Tire Rotation in Tires and Wheels.

Check the tires for abnormal wear or damage. If irregular or premature tire wear exists, refer to Abnormal or Excessive Tire Wear in Suspension General Diagnosis.


Object Number: 105088  Size: SH

Brake System Inspection

Inspect brake lines and hoses for proper hook-up binding, leaks, cracks or chafing. Inspect disc brake pads for wear. Refer to Brake Pad Inspection in Disc Brakes. Inspect the rotors for poor surface condition. Inspect other brake system components, including the brake calipers and the parking brake. Check the parking brake adjustment. The brakes may need to be inspected more often if the customer's driving habits or conditions result in frequent braking.

Air Cleaner Filter Inspection and Replacement

Inspect the air cleaner filter every 25 000 km (15,000) miles if driving in dusty conditions. Replace if necessary. Replace the air cleaner filter every 50 000 km (30,000 miles). Replace more often under dusty conditions. For a 2.4L engine, refer to Air Cleaner Element Replacement in Engine Controls. For a 3.1L engine, refer to Air Cleaner Element Replacement in Engine Controls.

Automatic Transaxle Service

Change the transaxle fluid and the transaxle fluid filter. Refer to Automatic Transmission Fluid and Filter Replacement in Automatic Transmission/Transaxle.

Drive Belt Inspection

Inspect the drive belt for:

    • Cracks
    • Fraying
    • Wear
    • Proper belt tension
        Belts can have small cracks in individual ribs without affecting performance. For a 2.4L engine, refer to Drive Belt Replacement in Engine Mechanical. For a 3.1L engine, refer to Drive Belt Replacement in Engine Mechanical.

Fuel Tanks, Cap and Lines Inspection

Inspect the following components for damage or leaks:

    • Fuel tank
    • Fuel tank cap
    • Fuel lines
    • Fuel rail
    • Fuel injectors

Inspect the fuel tank cap seal for an uneven filler neck imprint and any damage.

Periodic replacement of the fuel filter is not required.

Cooling System Service

Drain, flush and refill the cooling system with new coolant. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling in Engine Cooling.

Spark Plug Wire Inspection

Clean the spark plug wires and inspect for burns, cracks or other damage. Ensure that the fit between the spark plug wire boots at the spark plugs and at the coils is snug. Replace the spark plug wires as needed. Refer to Ignition System Operation in Engine Electrical.

Spark Plug Replacement

Replace the spark plugs. Refer to Maintenance Items in this section and Ignition System Operation in Engine Electrical.