Malibu V6-3.6L (2010)
Oil Change Reminder Lamp: Service and Repair
ENGINE OIL LIFE SYSTEM
When to Change Engine Oil
This vehicle has a computer system that indicates 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 is indicated can vary considerably. For the oil life system to work
properly, the system must be reset every time the oil is changed.
When the system has calculated that oil life has been diminished, it indicates that an oil change is necessary. A CHANGE OIL SOON message comes
on. Change the oil as soon as possible within the next 600 miles (1 000 km). It is possible that, if driving under the best conditions, the oil life system
might not indicate that an oil change is necessary for over a year. However, the engine oil and filter must be changed at least once a year and at this
time the system must be reset. It is also important to check the oil regularly and keep it at the proper level.
If the system is ever reset accidentally, the oil must be changed at 3,000 miles (5 000 km) since the last oil change. Remember to reset the oil life
system whenever the oil is changed.
How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System
The Engine Oil Life System calculates when to change the engine oil and filter based on vehicle use. Whenever the oil is changed, reset the system so
it can calculate when the next oil change is required. If a situation occurs where the oil is changed prior to a CHANGE OIL SOON message being
turned on, reset the system.
After changing the engine oil, reset the system:
1. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN, with the engine off.
2. Press and hold the Driver Information Center INFO and reset buttons, on the left side of the steering wheel, at the same time to enter the
personalization menu. The OIL LIFE RESET message displays.
3. Press and hold the reset button until the Driver Information Center display shows ACKNOWLEDGED.
4. Turn the key to LOCK/OFF.
If the CHANGE OIL SOON message comes back on when the vehicle is started, the engine oil life system has not reset. Repeat the procedure.
What to Do with Used Oil
Used engine oil contains certain elements that can be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer. Do not let used oil stay on your skin for
very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly dispose of clothing or rags containing used engine
oil. See the manufacturer's warnings about the use and disposal of oil products.
Used oil can be a threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all the oil from the filter before disposal. Never dispose of oil
by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used
oil.
