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How much oil does a Chevy 3.0 diesel take?

The 3.0L Duramax turbodiesel in Chevy Silverado and related GM trucks requires about 8 quarts of engine oil when you replace the filter (roughly 7.5 liters). If you don’t replace the filter during the change, expect about 7 quarts (roughly 6.6 liters).


This article breaks down the official capacity figures, explains what they mean for maintenance, and offers practical guidance for planning an oil change on 2019–present Silverado/Sierra models equipped with the 3.0L Duramax.


Oil capacity specifics for the 3.0L Duramax


Understanding the official capacity helps when planning an oil change, ordering parts, and ensuring you reach the correct fill level. The numbers below reflect GM's published specs and common service documentation for the 3.0L Duramax used in 2019–2024 Silverado 1500 and related GM trucks.


Below are the official oil capacity figures for the 3.0L Duramax, distinguishing whether you replace the oil filter during the change or not.



  • With oil filter installed: 8 quarts (7.5 liters)

  • Without oil filter (drain only): 7 quarts (6.6 liters)


These figures come from GM service documentation and common maintenance references for the LZ0/LZ4 3.0L Duramax available in full-size GM pickups and SUVs.


Practical guidance for oil changes


When performing an oil change, following the full-capacity guideline helps ensure the sump and filter are properly filled and that the engine is within specification before restarting the vehicle. Always refer to the owner's manual for the exact figure for your year and model, as there can be minor differences or service advisories.


Also, remember to reset the oil life monitor after a change and use the recommended synthetic oil viscosity for your climate—commonly 5W-30 or 5W-40, depending on conditions and the owner's manual.


Summary


In short, plan on about 8 quarts (approximately 7.5 liters) of engine oil when replacing the filter on the Chevy 3.0L Duramax, or about 7 quarts (roughly 6.6 liters) if the filter is not replaced. Verify year-specific specs in your owner's manual or GM service portal for any minor variations.

How much oil does a Duramax 3.0 L turbo diesel take?


The 3.0L Duramax engine requires 7 quarts of oil with a filter change. It needs a diesel-specific, 0W-20 full synthetic oil that meets the GM dexosD specification. 

  • Oil capacity: 7 quarts
  • Oil type: 0W-20 synthetic, meeting GM dexosD specification
  • Oil filter: Use the correct oil filter, such as the ACDelco PF66.



What oil is recommended for 3.0 EcoDiesel?


The correct oil for a 3.0L EcoDiesel engine is 5W-40 full synthetic diesel engine oil that meets specific Chrysler MS-12991 (for 2020+) or MS-10902 (for 2014-2019) specifications. For 2014-2016 model years, the original 5W-30 specification was retroactively changed to 5W-40 via service bulletin.
 
For 2014–2019 models:

  • Viscosity: 5W-40
  • Type: Full synthetic diesel engine oil
  • Specifications: API CJ-4 and Chrysler MS-10902
  • Note: A service bulletin changed the recommendation from 5W-30 to 5W-40 for these years. 

For 2020 and newer models:
  • Viscosity: 5W-40
  • Type: Full synthetic engine oil
  • Specifications: API SN or SN+ and Chrysler MS-12991 

Important considerations:
  • Always use the correct Chrysler-approved specification, as the oil requirements have changed over the years. 
  • Some recommended oils include Shell Rotella T6 5W40 or Pennzoil Ultra Euro 5w40. 



What oil goes in a 3.0 Duramax diesel?


Engine Oil Cross Reference Part Numbers: 19370138, 10-9277. Oil for 2020 3.0L LM2 Duramax engine. > 6 - Quarts AC Delco DexosD 0W-20 Light Duty Diesel Engine Oil.



How many quarts of oil 3.0 EcoDiesel?


The EcoDiesel oil capacity also depends on the year your vehicle was manufactured. For most vehicles made between 2014 and 2019, the oil capacity is 10.5 quarts, while those made after 2020 have an 8.5-quart EcoDiesel oil capacity. The oil capacity will change slightly if you change the filter as well.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.