Dexos brand oils, which General Motors created for its vehicles model year 2011 and older, have made a tremendous impact on their engines, both improving lifespan and optimizing performance. For fleets with GM assets, it is important to fully understand how dexos oils work and the benefits you can derive from them. And once you have this knowledge, you need not worry about how you can get the best oil to transform your driving experience.
Breakdown of dexos oil
To fully understand what dexos oils are all about, there should be a breakdown of all its categories. Some of these categories have been highlighted below, but first, let’s know what dexos oil means.
What is dexos oil?
Dexos oil is a specification by GM to use for their vehicles, and have gone through a series of high-quality tests, which include the Stochastic Pre-ignition test, the M271 Sludge test, the sequence VID test, the Aeration test, etc. After the oil has passed the test, the oil manufacturers will have to acquire the Dexos license to become certified dexos oil.
dexos1
The dexos1 was the first specification released in 2010 by GM to consolidate what they believe that oils have a great impact on the engine. They drafted these guidelines based on tests that were beyond the industry standard of ILSAC GF-5 and API SN. And this became the first generation of dexos 1 oils, but two others followed as generation 2 and generation 3. Each new generation of oil was an improvement on the previous generation.
The dexos1 is designed for gasoline engines, and it is estimated to cover a total of 15,000 miles before requiring an oil change. Gen 1 expired in 2017, while Gen 3 was introduced near the end of 2021. The backwards compatible dexos 1 Gen 3 offers:
- High resistance to oxidation for more turbocharger protection and overall engine cleanliness
- Protection against friction and wear for better fuel savings and longer engine life
- Easier starts and more engine protection in cold weather
- Resistance to varnish and sludge for cleaner engine operation
dexos2
The dexos2 oils are not a direct upgrade of the dexos1, but were designed to accommodate other requirements. So, the dexos2 follows the API SN and ACEA C2/A5/B5 requirements to cover both diesel and gasoline engines, which makes it relevant in European regions. Though it shares some similarities with dexos1, it was certainly coined for other markets.
According to additive maker Lubrizol, dexos2 are “high HTHS [high temperature high shear] (≥ 3.5cP) SAE 5W-30 and 5W-40 based on API Group III base oils.”
This version also has the ability to reduce wear and keep the engine clean. Other benefits you can add to that list are high performance, exhaust particulate filter, and fuel economy.
dexos D
The dexos D oil is the latest category of the dexos oil that covers light diesel engines for newer car models from 2020. It best operates with a viscosity of 0W-20, and it meets the requirement of API SN and ACEA C5. Modern cars are being designed with smaller and lighter engines, and GM's response was to derive the dexos D to cater to those needs.
Does dexos oil make a difference?
Yes, dexos oil does make a difference when compared to other oils (licensed or non-licensed). The rigorous processes and tests they go through give them an edge over other conventional or synthetic oils. These tests are carried out in GM laboratory, where the oils are tested and approved when it meets the requirements.
It is common knowledge that the more tests a product undergoes, the more authentic it becomes. This is the mantra that drives GM to run several tests there increasing the authenticity and accuracy of the oils which makes them unbeatable in the market.
Also, dexos oil is a difference-maker when it comes to compatibility with older vehicle versions. It is suitable for vehicles that were made before dexos oil was created, it is very versatile and gives you a sense of stability—because you will not have to worry whether or not it will damage your car.
Dexos oil increases the efficiency of your GM vehicle, while other unauthorized brands may lower the efficiency. And, in the long run, your engine might be affected or stop working.
What to know about the warranty
Dexos oil warranty is valid if you use only Dexos oil. If you use any other unauthorized oil, the warranty will be voided. GM believes that other oils can affect engine efficiency and may be destructive in the long run. So, they strongly advise against using any other oil aside from their list of recommended oil to be eligible for their warranty.
Conclusion
Now, you can see that it is very easy to make a choice when your search is streamlined. You can choose any oil from the dexos oils irrespective of the type or model of the car you drive. And you are assured of optimum performance of your engine.
So, commitment is made by GM to ensure that all the oils are well tested to meet the desired specification before they are listed. And, dexos oil has earned its reputation as the best oil in the market.
But, if you own a GM-manufactured car, do not make the mistake of using unauthorized oil because you will void your warranty.
