FAQ
TL;DR: For the Vivaro 1.9 DTI, use 5W‑30 or 5W‑40 and change oil every 15,000 km; “Recommended for this engine is 5w30 or 5w40… exchange every 15 thousand.” [Elektroda, pp_pablo, post #16977983]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps high‑mileage Vivaro owners pick the right oil and interval with confidence.
Quick facts
- Recommended viscosities: 5W‑30 or 5W‑40 for the 1.9 DTI. [Elektroda, pp_pablo, post #16977983]
- Typical interval cited by users: 15,000 km between oil changes. [Elektroda, pp_pablo, post #16977983]
- Service book note (2004 model): ELF 5W‑40 listed. [Elektroda, cezariuszx, post #17404295]
- Follow manufacturer spec regardless of mileage; “The process has nothing to do with the type of oil.” [Elektroda, kkknc, post #16978148]
- To avoid counterfeit oil, buy from major forecourts like Orlen/airport shops. [Elektroda, kkknc, post #16980244]
Quick Facts
- Recommended viscosities: 5W‑30 or 5W‑40 for the 1.9 DTI. [Elektroda, pp_pablo, post #16977983]
- Typical interval cited by users: 15,000 km between oil changes. [Elektroda, pp_pablo, post #16977983]
- Service book note (2004 model): ELF 5W‑40 listed. [Elektroda, cezariuszx, post #17404295]
- Follow manufacturer spec regardless of mileage; “The process has nothing to do with the type of oil.” [Elektroda, kkknc, post #16978148]
- To avoid counterfeit oil, buy from major forecourts like Orlen/airport shops. [Elektroda, kkknc, post #16980244]
What oil viscosity should I use for an Opel Vivaro 1.9 DTI?
Forum guidance points to 5W‑30 or 5W‑40 for this engine. A user summarized it simply: 5W‑30/5W‑40 fits the spec. That pairing covers typical climates and loads for the 1.9 DTI. Stick to these grades unless your manual states otherwise. [Elektroda, pp_pablo, post #16977983]
How often should I change the oil on this engine?
Change the oil every 15,000 km. One contributor highlighted this interval alongside the 5W‑30/5W‑40 recommendation. Shorter intervals can be chosen for severe service, but 15,000 km is the quoted figure. [Elektroda, pp_pablo, post #16977983]
Does high mileage (e.g., 400,000 km) mean I should avoid full synthetic?
No. Follow the manufacturer’s specification, not the odometer. As one expert put it, “The process has nothing to do with the type of oil.” Choose oil that meets the spec and viscosity. [Elektroda, kkknc, post #16978148]
Is there any official note about brand from a Vivaro service book?
Yes. A 2004 Vivaro 1.9 service book lists ELF 5W‑40. If your book matches, using an ELF 5W‑40 that meets the spec aligns with the documented guidance. [Elektroda, cezariuszx, post #17404295]
GM vs ELF: which do users prefer in this thread?
One user reports ELF runs “much better and quieter” than GM in their experience. That’s subjective, but it reflects feedback after back‑to‑back changes. “Elf a lot more expensive.” [Elektroda, Strumien swiadomosci swia, post #16978778]
Which Mobil oils do people here actually use?
A contributor lists Mobil 5W‑30 ESP and Mobil Super 2000 10W‑40 used for customers. This shows Mobil options discussed for both low‑ and mid‑SAPS needs. [Elektroda, migmig85, post #16978793]
Is 40,000 km an acceptable oil‑change interval on the Vivaro?
A poster recalls a manufacturer figure of 40,000 km but adds they recommend a maximum of 20,000 km for such a car. That’s a cautionary stance for longevity. [Elektroda, migmig85, post #16978754]
What’s a safe place to buy oil to avoid counterfeit products?
Buy from major fuel stations or airport shops. One user states that purchases there ensure original product and avoid fakes. This reduces engine risk. [Elektroda, kkknc, post #16980244]
I don’t know what oil is currently in my engine—can I just switch?
Yes, if the new oil matches the recommended spec and viscosity. Users stress sticking to the manufacturer’s guidance rather than guessing by mileage or rumors. [Elektroda, kkknc, post #16978148]
Are 5W‑30 and 5W‑40 both valid for mixed city/highway use?
Yes. The thread’s summary recommendation names both grades for the 1.9 DTI. Many owners choose between them based on climate and usage. [Elektroda, pp_pablo, post #16977983]
Any real‑world brand feedback beyond GM and ELF?
Yes. One owner ran two years on synthetic Mobil and recommends it. Another shop uses Mobil 5W‑30 ESP and Super 2000. These reflect positive experiences. [Elektroda, daro31ie, post #16977931]
Quick how‑to: how do I pick oil for my Vivaro 1.9 DTI?
- Use 5W‑30 or 5W‑40 as the target viscosity.
- Plan 15,000 km change intervals.
- Verify the bottle meets your engine’s stated spec.
[Elektroda, pp_pablo, post #16977983]
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