The 2018 Chevrolet TRAX is equipped with a robust 1.4-liter turbocharged engine that demands precise lubrication to maintain optimal performance and longevity. Because this compact SUV utilizes a turbocharger, the engine operates under higher thermal loads than naturally aspirated units, making the quality of your motor oil a critical factor in preventing wear and extending the life of internal components. Selecting the correct viscosity and fluid specifications ensures that all moving parts, from the turbocharger bearings to the valve train, remain properly protected against friction and heat.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides unsurpassed protection against horsepower loss and wear for up to 25,000 miles or one year, featuring a unique formulation designed to protect turbochargers effectively.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers extended drain intervals up to 20,000 miles with enhanced cleaning power to help keep the engine running smoothly and prevent sludge buildup.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A cost-effective synthetic option that fights sludge and deposits while meeting the specific performance requirements of GM vehicles, ensuring protection without compromising on quality.
- AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Formulated specifically for vehicles with over 75,000 miles, featuring boosted detergents and anti-wear additives to help older engines perform better and reduce oil consumption.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Engineered to provide a filtering efficiency of 99 percent at 20 microns, this filter helps reduce engine wear by allowing lower restriction and capturing small, wear-causing contaminants more effectively than standard filters.
- WIX Oil Filter – Features premium media that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer-branded filters, including a housing and cap marked Hengst, ensuring reliable protection and flow for your engine.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to withstand the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures, this fluid remains fluid in sub-zero conditions to ensure smooth shifting and long transmission life.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A synthetic alternative that protects against wear and provides reliable performance for the 6T40 transmission found in this vehicle, meeting the demands of daily driving and varied road conditions.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Offers advanced protection against wear and controls thermal runaway in the differential, helping to reduce operating temperatures and protect against rust and corrosion.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique poly-organic acid formulation that provides protection for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years, safeguarding cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses against corrosion.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option that requires mixing with distilled water, offering extended protection against metallic corrosion and erosion that greatly surpasses industry standards.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring consistent braking performance in any weather.
Proper lubrication is the lifeblood of your 2018 Chevrolet TRAX’s 1.4L turbo engine. The engine requires a total capacity of 4.2 quarts when a filter is installed, with an oil drain plug torque specification of 10 ft/lbs. It is crucial to check the oil level after the refill to ensure the correct amount is in the pan. The original equipment specification has evolved from Dexos 1 Gen 2 to GM Dexos 1 Gen 3, highlighting the need for high-quality synthetic oils that can meet these rigorous modern standards. Using an oil that exceeds these requirements, such as AMSOIL Signature Series, ensures that the turbocharger bearings and critical engine components are protected against the high heat and stress inherent in turbocharged operation.
When it comes to the automatic transmission, specifically the 6T40 model, capacity can vary between 4.0 and 6.0 liters depending on the service procedure. The total fill capacity is listed at 9 quarts, while the initial fill is approximately 4.2 quarts. Using a synthetic transmission fluid like AMSOIL helps prevent the sludge and wear that can occur in stop-and-go traffic or during heavy towing. The differential requires only 1 pint of lubricant, and AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-90 is recommended to handle the thermal stresses and protect against rust. For the cooling system, a capacity of 7.7 quarts is required, making the use of a high-quality coolant essential to prevent overheating and corrosion over the long term.
Maintenance Intervals and Fluid Details
The service intervals for this vehicle are designed to maximize the benefits of the synthetic lubricants. AMSOIL Signature Series motor oil allows for extended protection up to 25,000 miles or one year, significantly reducing the frequency of oil changes compared to conventional oils. For those seeking a balanced approach, the Extended-Life option supports intervals up to 20,000 miles. The OE series is ideal for owners who prefer to stick closer to standard manufacturer schedules but still want the benefits of synthetic technology, offering protection against LSPI (Low-Speed Pre-Ignition) which is a common concern in direct injection turbo engines.
The transmission fluid serves a vital role in the longevity of the 6-speed automatic transmission. AMSOIL’s fuel-efficient transmission fluids are engineered to reduce friction, which can lead to improved fuel economy and smoother shifts. The synthetic gear lube for the rear differential not only protects the gears from wear but also contains friction modifiers that are beneficial for limited-slip applications, ensuring consistent performance even under load. The brake fluid, being a DOT 4 synthetic, maintains a stable viscosity even in extreme cold, which is crucial for safety and responsive braking.
About the Vehicle
The 2018 Chevrolet TRAX represents a significant entry in the subcompact crossover SUV market, blending the utility of a larger vehicle with the efficiency and agility expected of a smaller platform. Built on the GM Delta II platform, which it shares with the Chevrolet Sonic, the TRAX offers a versatile driving experience that appeals to city dwellers and suburban families alike. The model, often recognized for its punchy appearance and affordable price point, provides a commanding view of the road thanks to its elevated stance, despite its modest exterior dimensions. This makes it an ideal choice for navigating tight parking spaces while still offering cargo space for everyday needs.
Powering this compact SUV is the 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, designated by the engine code LUVB. This engine is a marvel of modern engineering, designed to deliver strong low-end torque and responsive acceleration despite its small displacement. The turbocharging technology allows the TRAX to outperform many naturally aspirated engines in its class, providing a driving character that feels more energetic than its 138 horsepower might initially suggest. The turbocharger, in particular, operates at high speeds and temperatures, making the quality of the lubricating oil critical for its longevity. The engine’s design focuses on efficiency, helping the TRAX achieve respectable fuel economy figures for a vehicle of its type, making it a practical option for daily commuting and weekend adventures.
Owners of the 2018 TRAX often appreciate its nimble handling and straightforward operation. The vehicle is available in various trims, ranging from the base LS to the more feature-rich LT and Premier models. These trims typically include upgrades such as improved interior materials, advanced infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and driver-assistance technologies. The platform also offers a range of drivetrain options, including a four-wheel-drive variant for those facing more challenging road conditions, further enhancing the vehicle’s versatility. The interior is designed to be functional and comfortable, with a focus on maximizing space within a compact footprint.
While the 2018 Chevrolet TRAX is a reliable and well-regarded vehicle, there are specific areas where owners have reported issues that can be mitigated with high-quality lubricants. One common concern is the sensitivity of the turbocharger to oil degradation and carbon buildup, particularly if the vehicle is driven in severe conditions or with extended intervals using inferior oils. Using a premium synthetic oil like AMSOIL Signature Series helps keep the turbocharger bearings clean and lubricated, preventing premature wear. Another potential issue is the tendency for the engine to develop carbon deposits on the intake valves and pistons, a known characteristic of direct injection engines. AMSOIL’s P.i. Performance Improver can help restore fuel injector flow and reduce carbon buildup, improving performance and fuel economy.
Additionally, some owners have noted that the engine oil can become viscous or sludge-prone over time, especially in stop-and-go traffic or extreme cold weather. The high detergent and dispersant content in AMSOIL oils helps mitigate this by keeping contaminants suspended and preventing the formation of sludge that can clog oil passages. Finally, the cooling system is critical for the longevity of the turbocharged engine, and any failure can lead to overheating. Regular replacement of the coolant with a high-quality, long-life antifreeze ensures that the cooling system remains free of rust and corrosion, protecting the engine from thermal damage. By addressing these potential problem areas with superior lubricants, owners can ensure their 2018 TRAX remains a reliable and enjoyable vehicle for years to come.