Last year, General Motors (GM) issued a recall for more than half a million vehicles equipped with its popular 6.2-liter V8 engine for an issue that could cause engine knocking or failure. The automaker’s remedy for the problem was to replace the engine oil with Mobil 1 Supercar 0W-40, but as GM Authority reported, GM is now recommending a different lubricant.
Some vehicles received engine replacements, but many passed inspection and had their oil replaced with Mobil 1. GM has now changed that guidance, telling dealers to use Mobil 1 FS 0W-40 oil when their supply of Supercar oil is depleted. While they share the same 0W-40 viscosity, the Supercar oil is designed for high-performance track use, such as the Corvette. Mobil 1 says its FS oil is intended for a broader range of applications, including gasoline and diesel engines.
Despite its lower cost, FS may offer better cleaning properties, as Mobil 1 says it “provides exceptional cleaning power and wear protection to keep your engine running like new in most driving conditions, from mild to extreme.”
GM uses the 6.2-liter V8 in a wide range of vehicles, with those from the 2019 through 2024 model years affected under the recall. They include:
- Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- Chevrolet Tahoe
- GMC Sierra 1500
- GMC Yukon and Yukon XL
It’s essential to pay attention if you own one of the models listed or think your vehicle could be affected. While many owners escaped the recall with an oil change, many others needed a full engine replacement. Beyond needing a new V8, an engine failure could cause a dangerous situation on the road, especially at highway speeds.
