Hi all,

I've only got about 1200 miles on the G6, but a quick calculation puts this oil change at about 8-9000 miles. This kind of freaks me out, being used to 3000 service intervals. What do you all think about that many miles between oil changes?? Is anyone using synthetic oil?

Paul

Definately do not use the factory fill until the oil monitor says its time to change. A lot of people, including myself, suggest you change your oil after the first 500-1000 miles. I think it was stated in a previous post that the oil monitor will work best with full synthetic oil. Personally, I use Mobil1 Extended Performance (garaunteed for 15k miles, although I'll only put about 7k on it with my Focus). You can find it at WallyWorld (Walmart) for around $21.00.

Keep in mind if you start using synthetic oil that the Oil Life Monitoring system will not take that into account. Its calculations are based on the type of oil recommended for it and GM only has a few engines that start with synthetic from factory.

Hi all,

I've only got about 1200 miles on the G6, but a quick calculation puts this oil change at about 8-9000 miles. This kind of freaks me out, being used to 3000 service intervals. What do you all think about that many miles between oil changes?? Is anyone using synthetic oil?

Paul

I bought mine with 64 miles on it. At a little over 3000 miles the monitor stated it was time to change the oil. If you press a few buttons it should tell you what your oil life is.

Keep in mind if you start using synthetic oil that the Oil Life Monitoring system will not take that into account. Its calculations are based on the type of oil recommended for it and GM only has a few engines that start with synthetic from factory.

The oil life monitor is indeed set based on the type of oil recommended for the car. However, per the manual, for the G6 this oil must meet the GM6094 specification.

They don't tell you this, but the only oils that currently meet that spec. reliably are synthetics like Mobil 1.

If you're going to use the OLM to signal your changes, use synthetic oil - if for no other reason than to eliminate an excuse for GM to deny an engine related warranty claim for not using the "right" oil.

Thanks, I never even noticed that there was a different spec "GM6094" for this oil. I guess I should re-read the manual.

Paul

Like they say..."If all else fails, read the manual." :D

Here we go.

And just to note, I've never found any oil to actually have the GM spec on the bottle, usually you'll have to research it, if you want to get into it.

Like otcpharm and myself suggest, if you use a reputable brand of synthetic, you shouldn't have any problems.

And just to note, I've never found any oil to actually have the GM spec on the bottle, usually you'll have to research it, if you want to get into it.


Mobil 1, 5W-30, with the silver cap, states on the back label that it meets GM6904 specifications. (not the "extended interval" oil, the original Mobil 1)

So far, that's the only one I've found readily available that plainly states that it does.

I get oil changes free from the dealer, and the first service is at 3000 miles, as stated in the oil change coupon book.

Feel free to change the oil every 3000 miles if you are using regular oil.

If you're using synthetic, use the oil life monitor. Changing it any sooner is a waste of time and money.

Of course, the dealer would LOVE to have you come in for a $20 oil change every 3000 miles. :rolleyes:

Wouldn't the dealership use the GM spec oil or am I just being naive to think they would do that? I didn't really pay that much attention to what oil they used when I got my first oil change, I guess next time I should. I know my husband uses synthetic oil and I've never really asked why, I just figured he used it because it costs more. Maybe he really does have a theory behind using this oil. He's got an 04 Silverado.

Mobil 1, 5W-30, with the silver cap, states on the back label that it meets GM6904 specifications. (not the "extended interval" oil, the original Mobil 1)

So far, that's the only one I've found readily available that plainly states that it does.


I believe Havaline also has that spec on thier oil.

I believe Havaline also has that spec on thier oil.

Very nice, we've got two now. Good to see some companies are keeping up to date.

Any others?

Wouldn't the dealership use the GM spec oil or am I just being naive to think they would do that? I didn't really pay that much attention to what oil they used when I got my first oil change, I guess next time I should. I know my husband uses synthetic oil and I've never really asked why, I just figured he used it because it costs more. Maybe he really does have a theory behind using this oil. He's got an 04 Silverado.

The dealer "should" use the right oil, but they'll more than likely just grab whatever 5W-30 is sitting on the shelf rather than have to keep track of which vehicle requires which type of oil. Regular Dino-lube will work for 3000-4000 miles, but GM will run you through the wringer if you need engine-related warranty work.

Besides, they'd have a heck of a time making money on $20 oil changes using synthetic - that stuff isn't cheap.

Synthetic oil is it, if you're willing to pay a little more up front for the extra miles you can put on it and the extra protection it offers. After switching to synthetic a couple of years ago in one of my bikes, the positive results were enough to make me start pouring it in all my vehicles.

Now that I've read the manual, it's funny how they mention in it that under the best conditions, the oil can be changed once every year. That 3 months/3,000 miles is a nice little gimmick eh.

And how could GM void your warranty for not using the 'right' oil? How could they possibly know which oil you used? And would they go through that much hassle to find out?

Mike

I would drive around for 6 months befor i would switch to Synthetic.

Now that I've read the manual, it's funny how they mention in it that under the best conditions, the oil can be changed once every year. That 3 months/3,000 miles is a nice little gimmick eh.

And how could GM void your warranty for not using the 'right' oil? How could they possibly know which oil you used? And would they go through that much hassle to find out?

Mike

If you're changing your own oil, and you have an engine failure, they will demand to see your maintenance records. These would include the receipts for the oil you purchased for the oil changes, showing dates of purchase and type of oil - if you don't have those then as far as they are concerned you didn't change the oil at all. They can guesstimate the mileage for the changes based on the receipt dates, and will know whether or not the oil you used meets the required spec.

If the dealer is doing it, and they use oil that doesn't meet the required spec., then the only real defense they would have is that YOU had the responsibility to specify the "right" oil. (of course that's BS and would never stand up if pressed)

Advice: if you change your own, mark the date, the mileage, and the % remaining on the oil life monitor in the maintenance section of the book, and keep all receipts until the warranty expires.

I would drive around for 6 months befor i would switch to Synthetic.

20 years ago, this was accepted and would likely have been good advice. Engines no longer need a waiting period to switch over - vast improvements in engine assembly techniques have seen to that.

A number of manufacturers (GM, Mercedes, BMW...) have models that come from the factory with synthetic.

I wonder if when the dealer does the PDI (pre delivery inspection)that THEY can set the mileage intervals for oil changes? mine has been going off like clockwork every 3000 miles.

seems strange that so many cars have different intervals. just changed mine last week at 12001 on it and I went 3015 miles from the last time. I now have 12118 on it today and it says I have 96% left. works out right.

I've been letting my local Pontiac Dealer change the oil, but i noticed on the sticker that I peel off the windshield they use 10w30 valvoline.....I'm hoping this is just a 'generic' sticker and they are really using 5w30.....I WILL FIND OUT!!!

20 years ago, this was accepted and would likely have been good advice. Engines no longer need a waiting period to switch over - vast improvements in engine assembly techniques have seen to that.

A number of manufacturers (GM, Mercedes, BMW...) have models that come from the factory with synthetic.
Negative, Only higher end engines such as the LS1 and northstars come worked in from the facotry. Engines such as oww I dont know the 3900 still need a ware in time frame. Any GM tech that I have ever talked to says the same thing. But do what you want, i'm sure it wont cause any damage anyways.

Negative, Only higher end engines such as the LS1 and northstars come worked in from the facotry. Engines such as oww I dont know the 3900 still need a ware in time frame. Any GM tech that I have ever talked to says the same thing. But do what you want, i'm sure it wont cause any damage anyways.

Well, you've actually validated my statement that "a number of manufacturers have models that come from the factory with synthetic." Thanks.

The GM techs are toeing the line, repeating the mantra - just like the 3000 mile oil change interval. The techs I know (30 years of building engines, ASE certified masters, GM/Ford/Toyota warranty service certified) call BS.

The "break-in" period, a misnomer IMO, is about 20 miles, if done right. This 500 mile jazz is crud. All the engines I have "broken in" (built, bought, car, bike) have run circles around comparable models that were babied for 500 miles. Heck, my GT will run even with a stock Mustang GT through 2nd gear (after that it gets a little embarassing).

But you're right in that it won't cause damage, if you do it right. Babying it for the first 500 miles is worse.

BTW - Have you seen what's done to them before they ship out of the factory? If the final power-on test doesn't blow it up, then nothing will. After that, what's the point in babying it anyway?

Here's a list, alot of oils meet the spec.

Excellent find, this should clear up many questions!

Yes, an excellent post!

Choices, choices....I think I'll run up and buy me some WalMart oil real quick. :p

Any other valuable information where you pulled that chart from?

OK, is it just me? The attachment looks like a wierd tile floor.... Anyway, I just drove up to Indy, and got 32 MPG with 4 adults, luggage and at about 80 MPH in total comfort. I love this car!!!

OK, is it just me? The attachment looks like a wierd tile floor.... Anyway, I just drove up to Indy, and got 32 MPG with 4 adults, luggage and at about 80 MPH in total comfort. I love this car!!!

Me too.

If the attachments aren't displaying correctly, try clearing your cache.

BRAVO! Im loyal to my pennzoil and didnt want to have to change. You rock!

I don't own a G6 ,but I am seriously considering GTP coupe. I've never owned anything but Hondas before. Few questions related to this topic...

1) Just curious, what type of filter and oil do most GM dealerships use? Right now I am able to request Mobil 1 0W-20 synthetic at the Honda dealership, and they use Honda filters which are top notch. Do GM dealers offer mobil 1? or does it vary from dealer to dealer?

2) Also, anyone ever bring their own oil and filter when they have the dealer do a service? (to ensure use of top quality products)

3) What is the service interval on the G6, I'm aware of the oil life monitor, but what about other service. Every 5k, 10k?

4) I noticed some people posted pages from the manual on here, is there anywhere I can download the electronic manual for an 06 GTP Coupe? I would love to take a look at it before purchasing.

Thanks

I don't own a G6 ,but I am seriously considering GTP coupe. I've never owned anything but Hondas before. Few questions related to this topic...

1) Just curious, what type of filter and oil do most GM dealerships use? Right now I am able to request Mobil 1 0W-20 synthetic at the Honda dealership, and they use Honda filters which are top notch. Do GM dealers offer mobil 1? or does it vary from dealer to dealer?

I think it's a dealer to dealer thing in terms of oil types offered. Most dealers I know of use AC Delco filters (GM's recommended and factory-supplied brand).

2) Also, anyone ever bring their own oil and filter when they have the dealer do a service? (to ensure use of top quality products)

I haven't done this before, with my Vibe I started just doing my own oil changes with M1 and Toyota filters (remembering the Vibe's Toyota heritage)...but disposal and convenience became recurring concerns, and I think I'll stick to having a shop do the changes on the G6. However as recommended here, I do plan to eventually switch to synthetic and at that point I'll be supplying my own oil to the shop for changes(but AC Delco filters from my understanding are pretty damn good). My dealer is top-notch and I know they won't give me any problems about supplying it myself.

3) What is the service interval on the G6, I'm aware of the oil life monitor, but what about other service. Every 5k, 10k?

This should answer your question:

"Scheduled Maintenance

When the Change Oil Soon message in the Driver Information Center (DIC) comes on, it means that service is required for your vehicle. Have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible within the next 600 miles (1 000 km). It is possible that, if you are driving under the best conditions, the engine oil life system may not indicate that vehicle service is necessary for over a year. However, your engine oil and filter must be changed at least once a year and at this time the system must be reset. Your GM Goodwrench® dealer has GM-trained service technicians who will perform this work using genuine
GM parts and reset the system. If the engine oil life system is ever reset accidentally, you must service your vehicle within 3,000 miles (5 000 km) since your last service. Remember to reset the oil life system whenever the oil is changed. See Engine Oil Life System on page 5-20 for information on
the Engine Oil Life System and resetting the system.

When the Change Oil Soon message appears, certain services, checks, and inspections are required. Required services are described in the following for “Maintenance I” and “Maintenance II.” Generally, it is recommended that your first service be Maintenance I, your second service be Maintenance II, and that you alternate Maintenance I and Maintenance II thereafter. However, in some cases, Maintenance II may be required more often.

Maintenance I — Use Maintenance I if the message comes on within 10 months since the vehicle was purchased or Maintenance II was performed.

Maintenance II — Use Maintenance II if the previous service performed was Maintenance I. Always use Maintenance II whenever the message comes on 10 months or more since the last service or if the message has not come on at all for one year."

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/ragingfish/maintenance_Page_1.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/ragingfish/maintenance_Page_2.jpg

4) I noticed some people posted pages from the manual on here, is there anywhere I can download the electronic manual for an 06 GTP Coupe? I would love to take a look at it before purchasing.

You can sign up for MyGMLink.com when you purchase a GM car and download an electronic copy there:

https://www.mygmlink.com/pdf/go2content/manual/US/en/pontiac/pnt_g6_2005_man.pdf

Thanks for the great reply rf, however the link to the manual didn't work for me. I'll try on my other computer when I get back home in a few days.

You could have pointed him right to my gm.com because the pdf links can be "back doored" if you know them.

got it this time, Thanks!

You could have pointed him right to my gm.com because the pdf links can be "back doored" if you know them.

Excellent point!

You used to be able to just remove the file name from the end of that URL and browse all the available manuals...wonder why they took that ability away...

Excellent point!

You used to be able to just remove the file name from the end of that URL and browse all the available manuals...wonder why they took that ability away...

Yes that directory of manuals was pretty cool "feature" - maybe too much competition for company that actually sells replacement manuals?

But you can still look at them individually - if you registered a vehicle at mygmlink.com they give you a link for manual on your vehicle and you can figure out others from its format - I have book marks for quite a few.

:) I'll be using the Mobile 1 5w 30 as my oil of choice for the protection of the engine. Autobahn speeds keep the engine in the 2500 - 3000 rpm range. A full synthetic will serve as better protection for the engine.

BUT do I need to look into getting a Transmission cooler?
Or even a larger capacity Radiator as these are normal short comming of American cars on German roads.

Long term driving (beyond 45 minutes) in excess of 100 mph is not frequent at this time but is something I have to consider.

:) I'll be using the Mobile 1 5w 30 as my oil of choice for the protection of the engine. Autobahn speeds keep the engine in the 2500 - 3000 rpm range. A full synthetic will serve as better protection for the engine.

BUT do I need to look into getting a Transmission cooler?
Or even a larger capacity Radiator as these are normal short comming of American cars on German roads.

Long term driving (beyond 45 minutes) in excess of 100 mph is not frequent at this time but is something I have to consider.

Your driving a G6 in Germany?

Yes, I am... Oh and I forgot to say it is a 2006 G6 GT with a 3.5lt :) . One impotant thing to remember when driving on the autobahn. You WILL be passed by somebody. Once you let go of that "NASCAR" feeling. It's easier to get around.

Yes, I am... Oh and I forgot to say it is a 2006 G6 GT with a 3.5lt :) . One impotant thing to remember when driving on the autobahn. You WILL be passed by somebody. Once you let go of that "NASCAR" feeling. It's easier to get around.

Very nice. It will be interesting to see how the G6 holds up. About what speed do most people cruise at in the zones where there is no or very high limits?

nice so mobil 1 is covered under the warranty. Im use to using the 0-40 but 0-30 will do me fine.
jeff

I have been in the auto industry for a long time. The oil I have always used is Castrol GTX 5w30 and never had a problem. That being said, I have switched over to Synthetic. Mobil 1 5w30 and have noticed some things. The first switch oil change I burnt a little bit of oil because of the way it adheres to the piston rings. After that the seals took to it and never burnt or leaked again. The oild looks generally dirtier than natural oil, because of its detergent capabilities. That is a good thing. I change the oild in my cars every 2000 or so. Anyone who would wait for either the OLM or 7000 miles is out of their friggin minds. Thats something your wife would do! Warning to all new users of synthetic. It will work better, clean better, run cooler, make the engine noticeably more quiet ( especially tech motors). It will also cost much more, and YOU CAN NEVER GO BACK!!! If you do, you will have written a death notice for your engine. Remember all, if its under warranty, AC-Delco filter only. We dont want to give these bastards any room to say your mistake. Below I am including ,my normal service intervals and how I do things. Not saying I'm the best, just what I do...

OIL- 2K

FILTER - 2K

SPRAY GREASE TO ALL BUSHINGS, SHOCKS, SRPINGS, PARK CABLE, BODY MOUNTS, SUSPENSION LINKAGE, CV BOOTS, AND TIE ROD BOOTS - 2K
(I USE PB BLASTER FOR THIS. THE CAPILLARY ACTION HOLD IN THE BOOTS AND I HAVE NEVER HAD TO REPLACE AN AXLE, OR BOOT YET AND I HAVE TWO CARS FROM THE 80'S.)

ROTATE - EVERY TWO LOF
TRANNY - 20K
AIR FILTER - 20K
GAS - 10K
PCV - 20K
PLUGS - 40K
WIRES - 80K

Anyone who would wait for either the OLM or 7000 miles is out of their friggin minds. Thats something your wife would do! Warning to all new users of synthetic. It will work better, clean better, run cooler, make the engine noticeably more quiet ( especially tech motors). It will also cost much more, and YOU CAN NEVER GO BACK!!! If you do, you will have written a death notice for your engine.

This pretty much goes against anything I have read and what many people on here have noted.

I feel that its going to take awhile for most people to switch over to a higher mileage allowance for their oils. I do agree that towards the end of the % for the oil life meter, the engine runs a bit louder and burns a bit more gas. But I'll swear by Mobile 1 for my car, same engine as whats in the G6. The oil industry wants you to change your oil every 3,000 miles only because it helps pad their wallets. I guess I'm trying to save the world a couple extra miles at a time with synthetic. To all the haters of what I've said...I want to hear your opinion ;) Happy Driving

This pretty much goes against anything I have read and what many people on here have noted.


I agree too. You are just going by arbitrary numbers not when the oil is breaking down and starting to lose its effectieness. If you drive a lot of dirt roads I can see every 2k if it is that dirty but if not it is just overkill. The OLM uses a formula based on several variables. This formula applies to oils meeting the SAE standard, which they all exceed. I don't think GM would reccomend going by the OLM if the formula was not accurate, that would be asking for a lawsuit. And yes, you should check your oil frequently and if it appears to be dirty or grity you need to change it, but where I live this is not a problem.

I also heard the rumor about not being able to switch back from synthetic after using it, but as far as I know, that's false.

Yes it is false. Mobil 1 for example states you can go back and forth as many times as you want. But why would you want to lol.

JP375 --- About 100 mph + Which currently feels just like 60 MPH in the G6 GT .... nice and smooth. :)

JP375 --- About 100 mph + Which currently feels just like 60 MPH in the G6 GT .... nice and smooth. :)It's too bad that we can't drive at AutoBahn speeds in the US. Here there are too many a-holes on the road with cell phones on their ears and too many people who feel driving doesn't require their full attention. :(

In regards to switching back to normal oil after synthetic, I used to use Mobil 1 only with teflon FRAM filters for approx 150000KM,s on my old Monte Carlo with the 3.1L. I then switched to regular oil and filter for the final 150000KM's of the cars life. Not only did the engine run great I never had to do any repairs (including the infamous gasket repair) 300000KM's and I sold the car and it was still running very well. That car never left me stranded and was never towed EVER. So in conclusion, I agree that synthetic is better, but switching back will not effect your engine at all. Also for autobaughng6 I drive mostly on highway here in canada and routinely do 120+KM/hr around 70mph with the G6 GT and I used to do it on my old Monte too and it had original motor/tranny with no work done to it. Just thougfht I'd throw that in.
Cheers.

Wow that definately answered all my questions about that Oil Monitor Switch, its been about 10K miles on my car and 7 months, and i've only changed my oil once when it was down to 8% somewhere around 6200 miles. Now I have about 10K and it still says 20% left in the oil life. I better get it changed. May just convert to synthetic, the extra money is worth it from what Ive been hearing.

has anyone noticed that the oil filter used for the G6 GTP is smaller than many other oil filters? I'd expect a 3.9L to use a bigger oil filter than my previous 2.0 L Eclipse