Oil Change included "Krex". Good or bad?

[jake75]

Got my first of four free oil changes today using that mailing GM sent out several weeks ago. Went to my former Pontiac - now Chevy - dealer. I specified 5w-20, but who knows what they really used. As part of their oil service I see on the invoice that they add "Krex" graphite engine lubricant. There is a 200,000 mile/10 year limited warranty on the engine associated with use of Krex - probably many loopholes.Their oil change service also includes 120 day roadside assistance - I think we have that anyway for 3yrs/36,000 miles but would be a benefit to someone with a vehicle beyond that.Also - for 120 days the give you Road Hazard Tire Protection, and a 1 day emergency rental car in case of a breakdown.All this appears to be part of a Krex program.

[vibedrivermatt]

Im sure whatever kind of change change they did at the dealer is fine. Just check to make sure they got the oil level right. Even if you specified 5w 20, your right to guess what they really put in there. There's prob no way of finding out. Are you really that concerned with it though? Using the free oil changes is a great way to save some cash. The only reason I'm not using mine because I do my own changes.If your so concerned about what type and grade oil your putting in your vibe, why don't you join the DIY'er crowd?I have no idea what KREX graphite oil is. can't say if its bad or good but I can say the owners manual doesn't tell you to put it in there. Then again it doesn't tell you to use synthetic oil, which is what I use.

[jake75]

I am convinced that 5w30 will work fine. The Krex is an additive - not a brand of oil. Maybe you knew that.

[jake75]

I did a quick Google search. Main complaint was that dealers were adding a $5 to $8 charge for this Krex, My LOF was still free with the Krex. Also, I guess the graphite makes the oil a charcoal color. At least then you can see it on the dipstick. Someone said that Mobil One has graphite. Don't know if that is true. Also some expressed concern that the graphite would clog the filter. I doubt that is an issue. On the positive side, I read that the graphite clings better so you have better lubrication on a cold start. Sometimes I think my T&C grinds a bit when I start it after a week or so of non-use.

[vibedrivermatt]

yeah right I just did too. There's some interesting conversations about this Krex stuff over at the bobistheoilguy. From what I could gather, it sounds like at the very least people wouldn't want to get charged for it. Like you say it also turns the oil a charcoal black color. ewww I don't like. Really while it may not be detrimental to anything the way its being pushed in enough discourage me from wanting it? It sounds like this stuff is quite pointless and they're just using it so they can throw sales pitches about 200,000 mile warranties. Speaking of loopholes. How many years does it take to rack up 200,000 miles on a car? several right? Do you even know anybody whose had all of their oil changes done at the same place for 200,000 miles? That's the life of an average car. Its funny that its nearly impossible for anybody to reach 200,000 miles on krex oil changes and that their main selling point.If people are going to the dealer for oil changes with Krex than Krex is selling additive and dealers are selling cars with warranties. What happens if you have to change your oil somewhere other than the dealer and don't have the Krex put in? There goes your 200,000 mile warranty. Who knows if Krex is going to be at dealers long enough for people drive their cars 200,000 miles on it? I bet Krex has a contract with the dealers for a specified amount of years. It would be interesting to ask the dealer how long Krex additive will be available. If the guy at the counter in the service center says the stuff if free then your dealing with an honest person. If he wants to charge for it? AH HAHAHA!!!My verdict on Krex -BAD maybe its meant to lubricate the economy.

[zionzr2]

One more reason To do my own Oil changes!Speaking of which... I'm due.. only been 3500 miles but nine months.Royal Purple.

[jake75]

Quote, originally posted by zionzr2 »One more reason To do my own Oil changes!Speaking of which... I'm due.. only been 3500 miles but nine months.Royal Purple.Mine was 9 months 3,000 miles.But I'll take "free with Krex" over buying the oil and filters and doing it myself. Changing my furnace filter is about the extent of my mechanical expertise.As for the requirements for that 200,000 mile warranty, I'll also bet my dealer won't even stay with the Krex program that long. Some new guy will have a better idea. Of course if the engine goes after the 5 yr 60,000 mile warranty (whichever comes first) it might be of value.