1997 Chevrolet Malibu Owner's Manual - Page 237

As shown in the chart, SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. However, youcan 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. not use Do other viscosity oils, such as SAE 20W-50. When to Change Engine Oil If any one of these is true for you, use the short trip/city maintenance schedule: 0 NOTICE: Use only engine oil with the American Petroleum Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines "Starburst" symbol. Failure to use the recommended oil can result engine damage not in covered by your warranty. I Most trips areless than 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km). This is particularly important when outside temperatures are below freezing. Most trips include extensive idling (such frequent as driving in stop-and-go traffic). Most trips are through dusty areas. You frequently tow a trailer or use a carrier on top of your vehicle. The vehicle is used for delivery service, police, taxi or other commercial application. 0 0 0 0 GM Goodwrench@ oil meets all the requirements for your vehicle. Driving under these conditions causes engine oil to break down sooner.If any one of these is true for your filter If you are in an area where the temperature falls below vehicle, then you need to change your oil and every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or 3 months -- whichever -20°F (-29"C),consider using either SAE 5W-30 an occurs first. synthetic oil or an SAE OW-30 oil. Both will provide easier cold starting and better protection for your engineIf none of them is true, use the long triphighway at extremely low temperatures. maintenance schedule. Change the oil and filter every 7,500 miles (12 500 k ) 12 months-- whichever m or Engine Oil Additives occurs first. Driving a vehicle with a fully warmed engine under highway conditions causes engine to oil Don't add anything to your Your Chevrolet dealer is oil. ready to advise if you think something should be added. break down slower. 6-16