2005 Impala questions (sis's new ride)

[earlyre]

My Sister called the other day to tell us she had changed Vehicles.
she Sold her 2005 Ford Freestyle(dad's old car,which her son & i had JUST changed the oil on...), which was starting to develop some... issues... they listed it, and someone showed with cash within a day.

the replacement is a 2005 base Impala (3.4l) and only 80k mi. it was their mechanic's Mother/Mother in laws' car (she passed on, etc..)apparently just had a "full Service" at his shop.
the My nephew and I did the last 2 oci's on her old car, and he seems to enjoy it as much as I do.

when i was looking up the service specs on the amsoil site, it says it only takes 4Qts with filter... can that be right?
my buddies mom has an 04 Pontiac Aztek with the same engine, it's listed as 4.5qts.

I know, going a pint over isn't going to do any real harm, but, aren't OCD OCI's what we're on this site for?
also, anything to typically look out for/ be aware of on these cars?

and I know no financial details on either transaction.

before someone asks "what does the manual say?" that's the rub, it didn't come with the car, but i've bought one from ebay, should be here in a few days.

 

[gregk24]

I know that my parents Chevy Uplander minivan with the 3.5 only takes 4 quarts, so it could very well be 4 quarts for that engine as well.

 

[HoosierJeeper]

Possible the Aztec has a larger oil pan for intended heavier use for towing compared to the Impala.

I'd put 4 quarts in and check it. Easier to add a bit than to drain some out.

 

[WiskyBadger]

We had the same car but an 04. 4.5 qts is full. Watch the intake gaskets otherwise pretty decent engine and the cars actually ride pretty decent.

 

[i_hate_autofraud]

Watch the transmission, it's a GM 4T65E 4 speed, ATF and filter changes are key, which is around the corner.

Don't tow anything with it, transmission can't handle it. If it starts to thump in gear changes at any point, work will be required.

 

[bigt61]

My buddie's 2008 Impala V6 only held 4 quarts. He was diligent in keeping it topped off. Low stress engine apparently.

 

[Bgallagher]

I had an 05 Equinox which was essentially the same engine. It technically takes 4.3 quarts. I used to throw in 4, run it then top it off. Besides LIM and headgaskets they are a solid engine that will last a long time. I would CLOSELY check for any leaks and replace it ASAP. Given the miles it might have already been done otherwise I would continue to inspect. My Equinox loved Pennzoil High Mileage and a Delco PF-52 classic. If you can fit the larger filter I would use it.While the 3.4 isn't a beast when it comes to power but offers plenty of get up and go and should offer decent MPGs.