What Kind of Oil Do You Use for a 2001 Oldsmobile Alero?
by Justin CuplerWhen it comes time for an oil change on your 2001 Alero, just any old oil won't do. General Motors -- the parent company of Oldsmobile -- provides oil viscosity and type recommendations based on the climate you live in. And there's good reason for this: The colder the temperature gets, the more work is required to get the oil moving through the engine. For this reason, GM recommends lower viscosity oil for use in colder climates to prevent damage to the engine when starting it in cold temperatures.
Above 0 Degrees F
In temperatures above 0 degrees F, General Motors recommends two types of oil for your 2001 Alero. The preferred oil is American Petroleum Institute-certified 5W-30 conventional engine oil. The optional oil in this temperature is API-certified 10W-30 conventional engine oil.
Temperature from -20 Degrees F to 0 Degrees F
In temperatures ranging from -20 degrees F to 0 degrees F, General Motors recommends one oil type for your 2001 Alero: API-certified 5W-30 engine oil.
Temperatures Below -20 Degrees F
In extreme cold areas, where the temperatures fall below -20 degrees F, GM has special oil recommendations for your 2001 Alero: synthetic, API-certified 5W-30 engine oil, or a conventional 0W-30 API-certified engine oil.
Oil Capacity
The 2001 Alero has two available engines: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder and a 3.4-liter V-6. The 2.4-liter engine holds up to 4 qts. of oil and the 3.4-liter engine holds up to 4.5 qts. Always double-check the oil level, using the dipstick, after filling the engine with oil.
Writer Bio
Justin Cupler is a professional writer who has been published on several websites including CarsDirect and Autos.com. Cupler has worked in the professional automotive repair field as a technician and a manager since 2000. He has a certificate in broadcast journalism from the Connecticut School of Broadcasting. Cupler is currently studying mechanical engineering at Saint Petersburg College.
