It should be fine to use Dexos Gen 3 instead of Gen 2. It’s because Gen 3 is GF-6A with some harsher limits.
D1g3 has replaced d1g2 engine oil. They don’t produce Dexos 1 Gen 2 anymore. So, you have to replace it with Gen 3 instead.
Now’s that’s out of the picture, let’s have a closer inspection between the two and get a good idea about the detail part. Sometimes knowing the tiny details can help.
Dexos Gen 2 and Gen 3: Side by Side
| Aspect | Dexos 2 Oil | Dexos 3 Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Type | Synthetic or Synthetic Blend | Fully Synthetic |
| Application | Diesel Engines | Gasoline and Diesel Engines |
| Fuel Efficiency | Typically offers good fuel economy | Generally provides improved fuel economy |
| Emissions Compliance | Meets stricter diesel emissions standards | Complies with both gasoline and diesel emissions standards |
| Viscosity Grades | Typically includes lower viscosity grades suitable for diesel engines (e.g., 5W-30, 5W-40) | Primarily includes viscosity grades for gasoline and diesel engines (e.g., 5W-30, 5W-40) |
| Compatibility | Suitable for vehicles requiring Dexos 2 oil specifications | Suitable for vehicles requiring Dexos 3 oil specifications |
| Performance Benefits | Enhanced engine protection for diesel engines | Enhanced engine protection for gasoline and diesel engines |
| Common Uses | Commonly used in European diesel vehicles | Commonly used in a wide range of vehicles, including European and non-European models |
| GM Recommendations | Suitable for GM vehicles that specify Dexos 2 oil | Suitable for GM vehicles that specify Dexos 3 oil |
| Other Specifications | ACEA C3, API SN/CF, and various OEM approvals | ACEA C5, API SP/CF, and various OEM approvals |
Is Dexos Gen 3 the same as Gen 2?
Dexos Gen 3 is not the same as Gen 2; it’s an improved version with stricter standards, but it’s backward compatible with older generations of Dexos 1. That’s why you can use Gen 3 instead of Gen 2.
This new specification meets GM’s stricter performance requirements and includes most of the ILSAC GF-6 engine tests, which have even higher standards. It also has its own specific tests, such as SPI, fuel economy, and oxidation, which ensure better engine protection compared to current industry standards.
All Gen 2 products need to be updated by September 2022. KLONDIKE’s dexos 1 products, like 0W-20 and 5W-30 dexos1 Full Synthetic Engine Oil, will be updated to Gen 3 before September 2022 and will still be dexos licensed.
The good news is that Gen 3 is compatible with all the previous generations of dexos 1. However, always check your vehicle’s manual for specific oil recommendations. KLONDIKE offers a range of automotive products, including engine oils, brake fluid, and antifreeze.
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Can you mix dexos with regular oil?
No, you cannot mix Dexos with regular oils. Dexos-rated oils are all synthetic or synthetic blends for specific reasons. Mixing conventional oil with dexos oil negates its benefits and performance.
However, you can use regular oil as a temporary solution for emergencies. But it’s still not a good idea.
What happens if I don’t use dexos oil?
Using non-dexos-rated oil in your GM engine might lead to decreased performance, and it’s a situation where you assume the risk. There may not be any catastrophic damage but using SN oil instead of dexos 1 in a 2011 or newer GM gas engine is not guaranteed to be trouble-free.
Wrapping Up
Dexos oil stands out from other oils, whether licensed or not, due to its rigorous testing and processes. It offers advantages over both conventional and synthetic oils. Dexos oil also excels in compatibility with older vehicle models, providing versatility and peace of mind.
But as Gen 2 is not produced anymore, you have to rely on Gen 3. And that shouldn’t create any problem.
