I don't know what the effective level of the Search engine, since I only use it for relatively recent posts, but this question was covered many years ago. Probably just about the time, first oil changes were due for the 2006. If my memory serves me correctly, one of the members was selling AC filter kits, containing the ring and the cap, and stated (erroneously) that was the best way to complete oil changes since this will replace all the necessary parts (maybe because he got "stung" and bought these kits)..

As a matter of redundancy, members had discussed GM announcing, through TSB's and "notices" related to early failure of the aftermarket oil rings and GM had designed their cap rings to last the "life" of the car. At that time, I believe they also stated that competitive aftermarket rings were of a completely different color........that may have changed by now.

Sleeper....like you, I never changed the cap ring when changing (my tool box has several extras also). Up till about 5 months ago, the new owner never changed it either. He believed what I told him however, when he bought a new AC replacement filter 5 months ago, it came with a new filter.....and he said what the hell.

Old topic......but all good review.

 

Snoopy- I think I remember some of that 2nd paragraph you posted.. But, I didn't know you were a former collector also tho.

 

OK just changed my oil today. And at 50K the seal on the cap looks very good. I have owned the car starting at 20K and have done every oil change and never changed the cap seal. I know that different color O-rings are used for different applications in hydraulics, fuel and AC.
Just want to pass on this chart:
https://www.globaloring.com/oring-colors/

 

Thanks Cat Man- Other than green O-rings I have saved, I got some that are dark red, those came with Mobil 1 oil filters.

 

 

Do it yourself & know it is done that way you like.

 

When I bought my HHR back in last April or May, it looked like the oring had not been changed in a while. The exposed side had a flat spot which tells it obviously had lost it's elasticity.
The elasticity and deformation is what makes orings work.
Since it was a new car to me, I changed the oil, filter and oring at 200 miles and then again after a 1500 mile trip. That should have trapped any unknown stuff.
Now for regular 4000 mile Mogil1 changes with filter and oring.
I don't see any point in not using these new orings.

 

Do you remember the color of the first o-ring? When you did change the filter was it an ACdelco part?

 

The first oring was green.
I used a Mobil1 filter both times. Advance auto has a sale on Mobil1 oil with filter and a roll of paper shop towels for 30 bucks or so. So I got a few sets. That's the only time I use Mobil1 filters since they are stupid expensive by themselves, but the oil is a good price by itself on this sale. Normally I get the Mobil1 oil at Walmart in a 5qt jug for 25 bucks. Can't beat it.
BTW, the A/C Delco filter with oring is the least expensive filter at Advance.