How many quarts of oil does a 5.7 350 take?
Typically, the GM 5.7L V8 engine (the 350) uses about 5 quarts of engine oil when performing a standard oil change with a new filter. Always verify against your specific year, engine code, and oil pan configuration.
Understanding the oil capacity for the 5.7L 350
The official oil capacity can vary by model year, oil pan design, and whether you replace the oil filter. In practice, most 5.7L small-blocks used in Chevrolet GM vehicles are designed to take roughly five quarts of oil during a routine change with a new filter, with some variations depending on the exact model and configuration.
Common capacity figures
To set expectations for planning and servicing, consider the following typical figures. Always consult your owner's manual or a trusted service sheet for your exact year and model.
- With a standard oil change and a new filter: about 5 quarts.
- For certain variants or after a complete oil pan drain: up to around 6 quarts (check your specific engine data).
- Notes: capacities are based on the system with a new filter installed; the exact amount may vary by year and pan design.
In practice, start with 5 quarts, run the engine briefly, then recheck the dipstick and add small amounts if needed to reach the full mark.
Practical steps to verify the right amount
Before you begin, gather the right tools and follow a careful process to ensure you don’t overfill or underfill the engine.
- Park on level ground and let the engine cool (or run briefly if you’re topping off after a hot change).
- Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert, then pull it again to check the current level.
- If the level is below the full mark, add oil in small increments (about 1/2 quart at a time), then recheck with the dipstick until it reaches the full line.
- Avoid overfilling, as excessive oil can cause foaming and increased engine pressure.
Following these steps will help ensure you reach the correct oil level for a healthy 5.7L 350 engine.
Summary
The typical oil capacity for a GM 5.7L V8 (350) is around 5 quarts with a new filter during a standard change, with some variants allowing up to about 6 quarts. Always confirm against your vehicle’s exact year and engine code, and verify the level after filling using the dipstick to avoid overfilling or underfilling.
