2012–2020 Chevrolet Sonic
By Ray Delgado ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Nov 7, 2026
Save $63 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $120
Quick answer: Engine Oil & Filter Change on a 2012–2020 Chevrolet Sonic is rated Moderate and takes about 30-60 minutes. You'll need 2 tools for this job, and parts cost about $57. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name | Part Number | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil (5W-30) | — | $45.00 | |
| Correct engine oil filter and drain-plug washer for 2012-2020 Chevrolet Sonic | — | $12.00 |
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Follow these steps carefully
The 1.8L takes 4.8 quarts of 5W-30 with the filter. The filter is a cartridge in the oil-cooler housing, opened with a large cap wrench. The Sonic sits low — use ramps or jack stands on level ground.
Warm the engine briefly so the oil drains freely, then shut it off. Raise the front on ramps or jack stands — never a jack alone. Locate the drain plug and cartridge housing, then remove the oil fill cap.
Remove the drain plug and let the old oil drain fully into the pan. Unscrew the cap with the cap wrench, lift out the old cartridge. Seat the new cartridge on the cap, fit the new O-ring into the groove with oil, thread the cap on by hand — snug it, never force it.
Plastic filter caps crack if you gorilla them. I snug them by hand and stop — the O-ring does the sealing, not brute force. If the cap feels gritty going on, back it off and re-thread.
Reinstall the drain plug with a fresh washer and tighten firmly, then wipe the pan clean. Pour in 4.8 quarts of 5W-30, checking the dipstick as you add the last half quart to hit the full mark without overfilling.
I always use a fresh drain-plug washer. A crushed old washer is the number-one cause of a slow pan drip, and it's the cheapest part on the job.
Run the engine briefly, check for leaks at the drain plug and filter housing, then shut off. Wait a few minutes, recheck dipstick on level ground. Record date and mileage; reset the oil-life monitor in the Driver Information Center.
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
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