Engine Oil Life System - Chevrolet 2005 Equinox Owner's Manual

Engine Oil Life System

When to Change Engine Oil
Your vehicle has a computer system that lets you know
when to change the engine oil and filter. This is based on
engine revolutions and engine temperature, and not on
mileage. Based on driving conditions, the mileage at
which an oil change will be indicated can vary
considerably. For the oil life system to work properly, you
must reset the system every time the oil is changed.
When the system has calculated that oil life has been
diminished, it will indicate that an oil change is
necessary. A change engine oil light will come on.
Change your oil as soon as possible within the next two
times you stop for fuel. It is possible that, if you are
driving under the best conditions, the oil life system may
not indicate that an oil change 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 dealer has GM-trained people
who will perform this work using genuine GM parts and
reset the system. It is also important to check your
oil regularly and keep it at the proper level.
If the system is ever reset accidentally, you must
change your oil at 3,000 miles (5 000 km) since your
last oil change. Remember to reset the oil life system
whenever the oil is changed.
5-16
How to Reset the Change Engine
Oil Light
The GM Oil Life System calculates when to change your
engine oil and filter based on vehicle use. Anytime your
oil is changed, reset the system so it can calculate when
the next oil change is required. If a situation occurs where
you change your oil prior to a change engine oil light
being turned on, reset the system.
1. Turn the ignition key to RUN with the engine off.
2. Fully press and release the accelerator pedal three
times within five seconds.
The change engine oil light will flash while the
system is resetting.
3. Turn the key to LOCK.
If the change engine oil light comes back on and stays
on when you start your vehicle, the engine oil life
system has not reset. Repeat the procedure.