How much coolant does a 2018 Silverado 5.3 take?
About 15 quarts (roughly 3.75 gallons or 14.2 liters) of coolant is the total capacity for the Silverado’s cooling system when filled to the normal level with a 50/50 Dex-Cool mixture.
In practice, you should plan for roughly that amount when draining and refilling. The 2018 Silverado with the 5.3L V8 uses Dex-Cool long-life coolant and is typically topped up with a 50/50 mix with distilled water. The exact amount can vary slightly depending on your exact configuration and whether you perform a full flush, but 15 quarts serves as the standard reference figure.
Cooling system capacity and coolant type
The following facts cover the capacity, recommended coolant, and common maintenance considerations for the 2018 Silverado 5.3L.
- Total cooling system capacity: about 15 quarts (approximately 3.75 gallons or 14.2 liters).
- Coolant specification: Dex-Cool long-life engine coolant (OAT), GM’s standard for this vehicle family.
- Mix ratio: typically 50/50 with distilled water, unless GM or a dealer specifies otherwise for your region.
- Drain/refill expectation: a full drain and refill will use roughly the total capacity; partial drains will use less depending on what is replaced.
- Bleeding air after refill: start the engine with the reservoir (or radiator) cap off and allow air to purge, then top off to the proper level.
Note: Actual capacity can vary slightly by model, engine code, and whether additional items (like an auxiliary radiator or certain towing packages) affect the circuit. Always confirm with the owner’s manual or GM service data for your exact VIN.
How to refill and bleed the cooling system
When performing a coolant change on the 2018 Silverado 5.3, follow these practical steps to drain, refill, and purge air from the system.
- Safety first: ensure the engine is completely cool, disconnect the battery if advised, and secure the vehicle on a level surface.
- Drain the cooling system: place a drain pan beneath the radiator, open the radiator drain valve (and any engine block drains if present), and allow the coolant to drain completely.
- Flush (optional): if you’re flushing, run distilled water through the system to remove residues, then drain again.
- Reconnect drains: close all drain valves securely before refilling.
- Prepare the refill mix: obtain Dex-Cool coolant and mix it 50/50 with distilled water in a clean container.
- Refill: slowly pour the coolant into the radiator or reservoir until the system is near the full mark.
- Bleed the air: start the engine with the radiator cap off (or reservoir cap, depending on design) and allow it to reach operating temperature; monitor for air bubbles and top off as needed.
- Top off and recheck: reinstall the radiator cap, then recheck the reservoir level after the engine cools and top off if necessary.
- Cleanup and disposal: dispose of any drained coolant at a proper recycling facility.
After completing these steps, monitor the temperature gauge and check for leaks during the days following the procedure. Regular coolant maintenance intervals are typically outlined in the owner’s manual, and local conditions can influence replacement timing.
Notes on capacity variations
Variations in capacity can occur due to different radiator configurations, optional equipment, or service practices. When in doubt, consult the owner’s manual or a GM dealership for the exact figure for your specific VIN.
Summary
For the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado with the 5.3L V8, plan on roughly 15 quarts of Dex-Cool coolant for a full fill. Use a 50/50 mix with distilled water, and follow a careful bleeding procedure to purge air after refilling. Always verify exact specifications in the owner’s manual or with a GM service technician if you’re unsure.
