OILCHANGEDIY

2012 Chevrolet Cruze

Maintenance & specsVERIFIED Jul 14, 2026
Engine Oil
5W-30
Full Synthetic
OEM spec · dexos1 Gen 3Buy oil
Capacity
4.5qt
with filter
4.2 qt without filter
OEM spec: dexos1 Gen 3

The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze takes 5W-30 Full Synthetic with a total capacity of 4.5 quarts (filter included). Note: this vehicle has 7 active recalls — check the recalls section below. Below you’ll find complete maintenance specs, fluid capacities, parts, and links to buy what you need.

⚑ QUICK DIY TIPS FOR THE 2012 CHEVROLET CRUZE
  • Always use 5W-30 Full Synthetic as specified by Chevrolet — using the wrong viscosity can void your powertrain warranty.
  • Check the maintenance schedule below for your next service interval.
01

Oil & Filter

OilBuy
Viscosity5W-30
Oil typeFull Synthetic
Capacity (with filter)4.5 qt
Capacity (w/o filter)4.2 qt
OEM specdexos1 Gen 3
Filter Options

No filter cross-references added yet.

Drain Bolt & Hardware

Drain bolt specs not yet added.

04

Maintenance Schedule

≈ every 6 months
  • ▸Change Engine Oil & Filter
05

Torque Specifications

lug nut
100ft-lb·135.6Nm
spark plug
14mm thread, aluminum head
18ft-lb·24.4Nm
06

Safety Recalls

7
07

Technical Service Bulletins

1454

Estimated Current Value

Original MSRP
$30,000
Private Party
$5,130–$5,670
Dealer Retail
$5,940–$6,750
Trade-In
$4,590–$5,130
Depreciation
82%

Estimated values assume average condition and mileage for vehicle age.

Source: estimated

Save by doing it yourself
A shop typically charges $70–$140 for this service. Buy the parts and save.
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08

Tools & Supplies

Oil Drain Pan
Catch the old oil cleanly
Shop on Amazon
Funnel
Spill-free refill
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Socket Wrench
For the drain plug
Shop on Amazon
5W-30 Oil
4.5+ quarts
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Shop parts for the Chevrolet Cruze
Find oil, filters, and maintenance parts for the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze on Amazon.
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Step-by-step guide
Detailed walkthrough with tips for first-timers.
Read guide
How often to change oil
Intervals, severe service, and what your car needs.
Read guide
Synthetic vs. conventional
Which oil type is right for your engine and budget.
Read guide
Other 2012 Chevrolet models
Other Chevrolet Cruze years
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