For many of us, the 2014 Chevy Cruze is more than just a car; it represents a part of who we are. It’s therefore extremely important in selecting the right engine oil, which we will be diving into in this article.
We will also be covering a step-by-step for those of you who are interested in changing your oil, and the necessity of using high-quality oil to maintain peak performance.
Understanding the Engine of 2014 Chevy Cruze
The Chevy Cruze may not have the largest engine, but its turbocharged 1.4-liter inline-four engine is a master of efficiency. Thanks to its turbocharger, smaller engines punch above their weight while keeping fuel consumption in check.
Under the hood, Chevy offers a diverse lineup of four engines, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every driver’s needs—whether it’s power, efficiency, or a blend of both.
Another impressive aspect is how environmentally friendly the engine is. With its economical fuel consumption, both the 1.4T and 2.0TD engine options excel at managing resources while still delivering impressive performance. Notably, the turbo diesel variant achieves an impressive 46 miles per gallon on the highway, a feat that earns admiration from automotive enthusiasts!
What type of oil does the 2014 Chevy Cruze take?
Understanding the right oil for your 2014 Chevy Cruze boils down to choosing the oil that will best boost engine performance. With the Cruze having a range of engine options, choosing the right oil becomes even more important.
In short, synthetic oil, particularly 5W-30 motor oil, is the go-to choice for your Chevy Cruze. Engineered to withstand early degradation, this synthetic option reduces the need for frequent oil changes. Not only does synthetic oil prolong engine life, but it also enhances fuel efficiency, aligning perfectly with the Cruze’s eco-friendly reputation.
What happens if you use semi-synthetic oil on your 2014 Chevy Cruze?
If you were to switch gears and consider semi-synthetic oil, there is room to explore this option. A blend between conventional and synthetic oil, semi-synthetic mixes in the best of both worlds. Offering better protection and performance than conventional oil but at a cost lower than full synthetic, this type of oil could be considered a good choice as well.
It is, however, important to point out that full synthetic oil is unparalleled, especially for turbocharged engines like the 1.4-liter inline-four turbocharged variant found in the Chevy Cruze. Choosing to go for synthetic oil in this case is likely to deliver the best results.
Specialized engines like the 2.0TD diesel option require a specific oil type: Diesel 5W-40. Diesel engines function differently from gasoline engines, so they need their own specialized oil to keep them running smoothly.
Last but not least, let’s not overlook the advantages of high-mileage oil. Particularly beneficial for vehicles that have traveled over 75,000 miles, this type of oil can provide the rejuvenation your engine craves. It’s crafted to minimize leaks, curb oil consumption, and mitigate engine wear and tear.
Step-by-Step Oil Changing Guide
It’s a rewarding feeling to know how to change the oil on your 2014 Chevy Cruze. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of this hands-on task:
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Gather Supplies: Get your motor oil, oil filter, wrench set, oil filter wrench, funnel, oil catch pan, and car ramps or jack and jack stands. Don’t forget gloves and shop towels for cleanup.
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Warm Up Your Car: Let your Cruze run for a few minutes to warm up the oil, making it easier to drain. Be cautious of hot engine parts.
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Lift Your Car: Use ramps or a jack to safely raise your car and secure it with jack stands. You might need to remove the lower engine cover to access the drain plug.
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Drain the Oil: Locate the drain plug, position the oil catch pan beneath it, and carefully loosen and remove the plug with a wrench. Watch out for hot oil.
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Replace Drain Plug: Once all the oil is drained, reattach the drain plug and tighten it with a wrench, but not too tight.
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Change the Oil Filter: Place the oil catch pan under the filter, use an oil filter wrench to remove it, and discard the old filter. Apply some new oil to the gasket of the new filter before installing it. Screw it in place without over-tightening.
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Refill with Oil: Lower your vehicle, remove the oil cap, and use a funnel to pour in the new oil. Check your owner’s manual for the correct amount. Replace the oil cap securely.
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Run the Engine: Start your engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil. Check for leaks underneath and verify the oil level with the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary, but don’t overfill.
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Finish Up: Once everything looks good, give yourself a pat on the back. You’ve successfully changed the oil in your 2014 Chevy Cruze, and your car is ready for the road ahead!
Why is it important to choose quality oil?
Many 2014 Chevy Cruze owners choose high-quality synthetic oils. These oils have uniform molecule sizes, offering smoother lubrication and better overall performance. This means less friction in the engine, leading to improved fuel economy, reduced wear and tear, and longer intervals between oil changes.
In addition, synthetic oil’s capability to endure high temperatures and resist oxidation makes it a dependable option, particularly for the 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engines. The Chevy Cruze, equipped with the 2.0TD engine, operates exceptionally well with Diesel Synthetic 5W-40 motor oil, thanks to its innate heat resistance and stability even under extreme engine conditions.
When it comes to high-mileage oils, these unique blends are designed to support older engines with over 75,000 miles on the clock. They typically contain special additives like seal conditioners and detergents, which work to clean and safeguard the engine against the wear and tear commonly associated with aging engines.
The semi-synthetic oil, on the other hand, is a well-balanced blend of conventional and synthetic oil. This combination offers improved resistance to oxidation and good low-temperature performance without the higher cost of fully synthetic oil. Though it may not provide quite as many benefits, it offers an excellent middle-ground solution.
A crucial point to note is that the relationship between oil quality and engine longevity is incredibly significant. An engine running with poor quality oil is like a runner with no water – it can cause overheating, increased wear, and ultimately shorten the lifespan of the engine. Always refer to the manufacturer’s handbook for oil specifications and ensure commitment to regular oil changes to optimize engine performance and reliability.
FAQs
When should you do an oil change on your 2014 Chevy Cruze?
It is recommended to do an oil change every 3000-5000 miles.
What Happens if you don’t change the oil in a Chevy Cruze?
Not changing the oil on your Chevy Cruze cause cause a number of problems to the engine. Check out this article for more information.
Tomas is a retired Chevy Auto Technician that brings decades of hands-on experience and expertise to the table. He’s also a father to two incredible daughters. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help you solve and find reliable information on Chevrolet vehicles. Whether it’s troubleshooting engine problems or providing tips for maintenance, Thomas is committed to helping Chevy owners keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.
