Think all lubricants are the same? From conventional to synthetic blends, you might think it makes little difference what you put inside your vehicle. But it’s time to think again. Oil formulas are constantly evolving to better technology to meet stringent emission requirements and increase engine efficiency. Recently, the new iteration of dexos® technology developed by General Motors (GM) has pushed the gasoline engine market into yet another new level.
Dexos1™ Gen 1
More than a decade ago, GM began developing an oil to take better care of their gasoline powered engines than even a top-performing standard synthetic oil. Many modern full synthetics, with recommended change intervals of 5,000 and even 7,500 miles, already surpassed conventional oils, but GM saw an opportunity to raise the bar even further.
The result was a new standard for the industry. Although initially developed exclusively for GM vehicles, dexos® oil became embraced by the entire market. The first generation of dexos® provided the following benefits:
- Mandated use of high-quality ingredients, which meant they no longer used many conventional ingredients entirely. Dexos® oils are formulated exclusively with synthetics or synthetic blends.
- Better antioxidant technology that keeps oil from oxidizing. Dexos® oils generally have a drain interval of up to 15,000 miles.
- Lower viscosity that holds up to engine combustion and heat better and longer than other oils on the market.
Dexos1™ Gen 2 Taking it to the next level
GM developed and released their next level of Dexos gasoline engine oil known as Dexos1™ Gen 2 in 2015 which had all the benefits listed above, plus improved oxidation and deposit control. In addition, this new generation protects engines against a severely damaging phenomenon known as low speed pre-ignition (LSPI). LSPI affects smaller turbocharged engines that are prone to deposits and pre-ignition problems. The Gen 2 edition offered more advanced engine protection capabilities not found in Gen 1 oils.
Dexos1™ Gen 3 Taking it the latest and highest level
Compared to Dexos1 Gen 2, the current standard known as Dexos1™ Gen 3 demands stricter performance standards to further reduce oil degradation and deposit formation, as well as improved sludge control, and general engine cleanliness. It also must meet higher standards for turbocharger protection and fuel efficiency. It is important to note that oils formulated to meet the Gen 3 specification are backwards compatible for vehicles that require Gen 2 and even first generation Dexos oils which are no longer approved by GM for marketing.
Which Cenex engine oil is best for your gasoline powered vehicle
Wondering whether dexos® is right for your vehicle? Cenex offers Maxtron®, a fully synthetic premium oil is approved by GM for dexos1™ Gen 3 standards in 0W-20 and 5W-30 formulations so you can rest assured your engine is getting the highest possible protection. Always consult your owner’s manual to ensure the product you choose is effective and safe to use with your vehicle.
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