Chevy Uplander and OLM

[asand1]

After briefly researching, I have learned the GM oil minder bases its change intervals off of start frequency, average distances driven, temperatures, etc. OCI for people ranges from 3K to much more. I am inclined to follow the OLM, as I have for a few years now in my (Wife's) 08 Uplander because I have not seen any negative affects.
My question though, is whether the OLM is basing its predictions of oil quality on the assumption of conventional oil or synthetic? Is there actually an oil quality sensor in the pan (I have not seen external evidence of one).

 

[NMBurb02]

Originally Posted By: asand1
After briefly researching, I have learned the GM oil minder bases its change intervals off of start frequency, average distances driven, temperatures, etc. OCI for people ranges from 3K to much more. I am inclined to follow the OLM, as I have for a few years now in my (Wife's) 08 Uplander because I have not seen any negative affects.
My question though, is whether the OLM is basing its predictions of oil quality on the assumption of conventional oil or synthetic? Is there actually an oil quality sensor in the pan (I have not seen external evidence of one).

I would assume it is based on the type and grade of oil recommended in the owner's manual, so typically a modern conventional oil. That is why 3k is the short end of the spectrum.

 

[steve20]

correct-the OLM is set for the type and viscosity recommended in the owner's manual. The motor itself, doesn't know if you put in Amsoil or SuperTech.
FWIW, GM OLMs seem to do a good job overall-I follow it in my wife's Tahoe, but don't go past 6-7K no matter how much oil life it says I have left

 

[asand1]

We bought our van used, with no owners manual.