1994 Oldsmobile Silhouette Owner's Manual - Page 195

As shown in the chart,SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 1OW-30 if it's going to be 0°F (-18°C) or above. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils, such as SAE 1OW-40 or SAE 20W-50. If you cannot find oils with the new "starburst" symbol on the frontof the container, you should look for and use oils containing the following three things: SH or SG "SH'or "SG' must be on the container, oil either by itself or combined with other quality designations, such as "SHKD," "SH,SG,CD,""SG/CD," etc. These letters show American Petroleum Institute (API) levels of quality. SAE 1OW-30 (3800 engine) SAE 5W-30 (3100 engine) Energy Conserving I1 Oils with thesewords on the container will help you save fuel. These three things usually included are in a doughnut shaped logo (symbol) on most containers. If you cannot find oils with the "starburst" symbol, you should look for oils with the doughnut shaped symbol, containing the three things noted above. When to Change Engine Oil See if any oneof these is true for you: Most trips are less than 4 miles (6 ltm). It's below freezing outside and most trips are less than 10 miles (16 ltm). The engine is at low speed most of the time (as in door-to-door delivery, or in stop-and-go traffic). You tow a trailer often. Most trips are through dusty places. If any one of these is true for your vehicle, then you need to change your oil and filter every 3,000 miles (5 000 ltm) or 3 months - whichever comes first. If none of them is true, change the oil every 7,500 miles (12 500 ltm) or 12 months -whichever comes first. Change the filter at thefirst oil change and at every other oil change after that. If you use oils that do not have either the "starburst" symbol or an API SH or SG designation, you can cause engine damage not covered by your warranty. GM Goodwrench@oil (in Canada, GM Engine Oil) meets all the requirements for your vehicle. Engine Oil Additives Don't add anything your oil. Your to Oldsmobile dealer is ready to advise if you think something should be added. Engine Coolant Heater (Engine Block Heater) An engine coolant heater can be a big help if you have to park outside in very cold weather, 0°F (-18°C) or colder. If your vehicle has this option,see Engine Coolant Heater in the Index. 193