GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Engine Oil and Oil Filter Change

Replace the engine oil and the engine oil filter. Refer to Engine Oil and Oil Filter Replacement in 3.5L Engine Mechanical or refer to Engine Oil and Oil Filter Replacement in 3.8L Engine Mechanical.

Engine Oil Quality

Oils of the proper quality for the vehicle can be identified by looking for the STARBURST symbol. The STARBURST symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API), and is preferred for use in gasoline engines.

Engine Oil Viscosity

Notice: Using oils of any viscosity other than those recommended could result in engine damage. When choosing an oil, consider the range of temperatures the vehicle will be operated in before the next oil change. Then, select the recommended oil viscosity.

Important: If the vehicle is operated in an area where the temperature falls below -29°C (-20°F), consider using a SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil or a SAE 0W-30. Both will provide easier cold starting and better protection for the vehicle's engine at extremely low temperatures.

Engine oil viscosity (thickness) has an effect on the fuel economy and the cold-weather operation (engine starting and oil flow). Lower viscosity engine oils can provide better fuel economy and cold-weather performance. However, higher temperature weather condition require higher viscosity engine oils for satisfactory lubrication.

Oil Viscosity Recommendation for 3800 V6 (RPO Code L36) (VIN K)


Object Number: 196359  Size: MH

For the 3800 V6 L36 (VIN K) engine, the recommended engine oil viscosity is SAE 10W-30, however, if the outside air temperature is lower than 16°C (60°F) 5W-30 may be used. Do not use other viscosity oils, such as SAE 20W-50.

Oil Viscosity Recommendation for 3.5L Twin Cam V6 (RPO Code LX5) (VIN H)


Object Number: 196359  Size: MH

For the 3.5L Twin Cam V6 LX5 (VIN H) engine, the recommended engine oil viscosity is SAE 10W-30, however, if the outside air temperature is lower than 16°C (60°F) 5W-30 may be used. Do not use other viscosity oils, such as SAE 20W-50.

Tire and Wheel Inspection and Rotation


Object Number: 105088  Size: SH

Rotate the tires to equalize the wear and obtain maximum tire life. Refer to Tire Rotation in Suspension.

Check the tires for abnormal wear or damage. If irregular or premature tire wear exists, refer to Tire Diagnosis - Irregular or Premature Wear in Suspension.

Passenger Compartment Air Filter Replacement

Replace the passenger compartment air filter. Refer to Passenger Compartment Air Filter Replacement in HVAC systems with A/C Manual or refer toPassenger Compartment Air Filter Replacement in HVAC systems with A/C Automatic.

Brake System Inspection

Inspect brake lines and hoses for proper hook-up binding, leaks, cracks or chafing. Refer to Brake Hose Inspection in Hydraulic Brakes. Inspect disc brake pads for wear. Refer to Brake Pad Inspection in Disc Brakes. Inspect the rotors for poor surface condition. Inspect other brake system components, including the brake calipers and the parking brake. Check the parking brake adjustment. The brakes may need to be inspected more often if the customer's driving habits or conditions result in frequent braking.

Air Cleaner Filter Inspection and Replacement

Replace the air cleaner filter according to the maintenance schedule intervals.

For maintenance schedule information, refer to Maintenance Schedule .

For air cleaner filter replacement procedure, refer to Air Cleaner Element Replacement for 3.5 Engine Controls or Air Cleaner Element Replacement for 3.8 Engine Controls.

Automatic Transaxle Service

Change the transaxle fluid and the transaxle fluid filter.

Refer to Automatic Transmission Fluid Filter and Seal Replacement in Automatic Transaxle --4T65-E.

Drive Belt Inspection

Inspect the drive belt according to the maintenance schedule intervals.

For time and/or mileage intervals of scheduled maintenance items, refer to Maintenance Schedule .

Inspect the drive belt for the following:

    • Cracks
    • Fraying
    • Wear
    • Proper tension
    • For the 3.5L engine, refer to Drive Belt Excessive Wear Diagnosis
    • For the 3.8L engine refer to Drive Belt Excessive Wear Diagnosis

Fuel Tanks, Cap and Lines Inspection

Periodic replacement of the fuel filter is not required.

Inspect the following components for damage or leaks:

    • Fuel tank
    • Fuel tank cap
        Inspect the fuel tank cap seal for an uneven filler neck imprint and any damage.
    • Fuel lines
    • Fuel rail
    • Fuel injectors

For fuel system diagnosis information, refer to Fuel System Diagnosis

For fuel system diagnosis information, refer to Fuel System Diagnosis

Cooling System Service

Drain, flush and refill the cooling system with new coolant. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling in Engine Cooling.

For time and/or mileage intervals of scheduled maintenance items, refer to Maintenance Schedule .

Spark Plug Wire Inspection

Clean the spark plug wires and inspect for burns, cracks or other damage. Ensure that the fit between the spark plug wire boots at the spark plugs and at the coils are snug. Replace the spark plug wires as needed. Refer to Spark Plug Wire Harness Replacement in Engine Electrical.

Spark Plug Replacement

Replace the spark plugs.

For time and/or mileage intervals of scheduled maintenance items, refer to Maintenance Schedule

For information on the correct type of spark plug, refer to Maintenance Items .

Refer to Spark Plug Replacement in Engine Electrical.