GM Shortens Oil Change Interval Warnings for 779,000 Vehicles

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General Motors is contacting owners of certain 2010-2012 Chevrolet Equinox, GMC Terrain, Buick LaCrosse, andBuick Regalvehicles regarding the suggested oil change intervals. The alert affects 778,956 vehicles equippedwith GM's 2.4-liter four cylinder engine.

Late last year, GM decided to update the software to shorten oil change interval warnings after noticing warranty claims for worn-out chains linking the crankshaft and the balance shaft in affected vehicles. The automaker found that changing the suggested oil change schedule could extend the life of those chains.

The revised oil change schedule isn't dramatically different and will depend on driving style and conditions. "It might be 5000 miles, it might be 7000 miles," Adler told theAutomotive News.He also said the "need for shorter intervals is independent of the type of oil used."

GM will adjust the oil change monitor (that indicates the oil's remaining life in percentages) and warning lights in those vehicles free of charge, as long as owners visit the dealership by February 28, 2015. Owners of those vehicles should receive letters from GM. The software change should only take about 30 minutes at the dealer, GM spokesman Alan Adler told us in an email. "The visit may take longer depending how busy the dealership is."

Source: Automotive News (Subscription required)

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