Keeping your family hauler running smoothly for years to come often comes down to the basics, and few things are more fundamental than a timely oil change. For owners of the popular 2015 Chevy Traverse, knowing the correct oil capacity is the first step in this essential piece of maintenance. It’s a simple task that can save you time and money, and it all starts with having the right information at your fingertips. This practical guide is designed to give you that knowledge with clarity and confidence.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a new owner just getting to know your vehicle, understanding the specifics of your Traverse’s needs is key. This article serves as your go-to resource for the 2015 Chevy Traverse oil capacity and everything that goes with it. We’ll walk through the exact numbers, the type of oil that works best, and the simple steps to get the job done right. Consider this your friendly, one-stop guide to keeping your Traverse’s engine purring.
Getting the Numbers Right: Your 2015 Chevy Traverse Oil Capacity
Let’s get straight to the most important detail. The 2015 Chevy Traverse, equipped with the standard 3.6L V6 engine, has an oil capacity of 6 quarts (approximately 5.7 liters). This is the total amount of fresh oil you’ll need for a complete oil and filter change. It’s always a good idea to have a full six quarts on hand, as you may not need the entire last quart, but it’s better to be prepared. Remember, this figure is for a dry engine refill after a filter change; if you’re simply topping up the oil between changes, you’ll need much less.
More Than Just Quantity: Choosing the Right Oil
Pouring in six quarts of just any oil isn’t enough. Using the correct type is equally critical for engine health and performance. For the 2015 Traverse, General Motors recommends using an oil that meets the dexos1™ specification. This is a proprietary GM standard that ensures the oil provides optimal performance for engine cleanliness, fuel economy, and emission system protection.
In terms of viscosity, which is the oil’s thickness, the recommended grade is 5W-30. This is a multi-grade oil that flows easily in cold weather for quick engine start-up protection (the “5W” part) and maintains proper thickness at high operating temperatures (the “30” part). You can use either conventional or synthetic oil, but synthetic blend or full synthetic oils generally offer better protection and longevity, especially for a vehicle that may be used for towing or frequent stop-and-go driving.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Oil
If you’re ready to tackle the oil change yourself, here’s a straightforward overview of the process. Always ensure your vehicle is on a level surface, the parking brake is firmly engaged, and you have the necessary safety equipment, like gloves and safety glasses.
First, gather your supplies: six quarts of 5W-30 dexos1™ oil, a new oil filter (a common one for the 3.6L engine is the PF63), a wrench set, a drain pan, a funnel, and a jack and jack stands if you need to lift the vehicle. Start by warming up the engine for a few minutes; warm oil drains more completely. Then, safely lift the vehicle and locate the oil drain plug underneath the engine. Place your drain pan beneath it, loosen the plug with a wrench, and carefully remove it by hand, allowing the old oil to drain completely.
Once drained, replace the drain plug and washer, tightening it to specification (avoid over-tightening). Next, locate the old oil filter—it’s a cylindrical canister on the side of the engine. Use an oil filter wrench to remove it. Before installing the new filter, dab a little fresh oil on its rubber gasket and screw it on by hand until it’s snug. Do not use the wrench for this final step. You can now lower the vehicle and proceed to add the new oil.
Checking Your Oil Level Correctly
After adding approximately five and a half quarts of new oil, it’s time to check the level. This is a simple but vital habit for any car owner. Start the engine and let it run for about a minute. This circulates the new oil and fills the new filter. Then, turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle back into the oil pan.
Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean with a rag, re-insert it fully, and then pull it out again to get a true reading. The oil level should be between the two marks on the dipstick—the “full” and “add” lines. If it’s low, add the remaining oil in small increments, checking the level each time to avoid overfilling. Overfilling can be just as harmful as having too little oil, as it can cause foaming and increased pressure within the engine.
Why This Routine Maintenance Matters
Sticking to a regular oil change schedule, typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles depending on your driving conditions and oil type, is one of the best things you can do for your Traverse. Fresh oil lubricates moving parts to reduce wear, helps cool the engine, cleans internal components, and improves overall efficiency. Neglecting this can lead to sludge buildup, reduced fuel economy, and in severe cases, catastrophic engine failure. A small investment in time and resources for an oil change can prevent very large repair bills down the road.
In summary, your 2015 Chevy Traverse requires 6 quarts of 5W-30 oil that meets the dexos1™ specification. By following the correct procedure for changing and checking the oil, you are actively contributing to the long-term health and reliability of your vehicle. It’s a satisfying piece of maintenance that empowers you as an owner and ensures your Traverse remains a dependable part of your family’s adventures for many miles to come.