How many gallons does a Duramax diesel hold?
The fuel-tank capacity for Duramax-powered GM vehicles is not fixed; most heavy-duty models use a 36-gallon tank, while other variants can range from about 20 to 36 gallons depending on the configuration and year.
Duramax engines power a wide lineup, from light-duty 1500 trucks to heavy-duty 2500HD/3500HD and mid-size Colorado/Canyon models. Tank size varies by year, cab and bed configuration, and optional equipment. To know the exact capacity for a specific vehicle, consult the original window sticker, owner's manual, or a VIN-based spec sheet from GM.
Understanding the capacity range
Below are broad categories and typical ranges you might encounter with Duramax-equipped GM vehicles. These figures reflect common factory configurations, though exact numbers can differ by year and trim.
- Heavy-duty pickups (2500HD/3500HD with 6.6L Duramax): commonly 30–36 gallons, depending on configuration.
- Light-duty pickups (1500 with 3.0L Duramax): typically mid-20s to low-30s gallons, varying by bed/cab setup.
- Mid-size trucks (Colorado/Canyon with 2.8L Duramax): roughly 20–30 gallons depending on tank and options.
These ranges cover the most common setups. For exact capacity on a specific model, verify the original window sticker, the owner's manual, or the vehicle’s build sheet.
How to verify the exact capacity
To confirm the precise fuel capacity for your Duramax-powered vehicle, use these steps:
- Check the window sticker (Monroney label) for the stated fuel capacity at purchase.
- Consult the owner's manual under Specifications or Fuel System for the tank size.
- Use the VIN lookup on GM's official site or contact a dealership to retrieve the exact build data for your vehicle.
Knowing your specific tank size helps with planning trips and calculating fuel range more accurately.
Summary
In practice, Duramax-powered GM trucks do not share a single fuel-tank size. Expect roughly 20–36 gallons depending on the model family and configuration, with many heavy-duty 2500HD/3500HD versions using a 36-gallon tank. For a precise figure, always refer to the vehicle’s official documentation or VIN-specific spec.
