How much oil does a GMC 3500 6.6 take?
The common GMC Sierra 3500HD with the 6.6L engine typically takes about 11 quarts (roughly 10.5 liters) of engine oil with the filter. Exact capacity can vary by year and configuration, so always verify with your manual.
In practice, owners most often refer to the Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel version when discussing the 6.6 option on the Sierra 3500HD. There are occasional variations by model year and by whether the vehicle uses a diesel or a rare gasoline setup, so checking the specific documentation for your truck is essential.
Engine variants and oil capacity
Below is a quick comparison of typical oil capacities for the GMC Sierra 3500HD when people refer to the 6.6 engine. Always verify with the exact year/model in your manual.
Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel
The Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel is the standard 6.6 option in the Sierra 3500HD. The oil capacity is about 11 quarts (approximately 10.5 liters) with the filter installed. Some model-year updates may show slight variations; use the dipstick to confirm the final fill after an oil change.
6.6L gasoline V8 (less common in 3500HD)
There have been versions of heavier GM pickups with a 6.6L gasoline V8, but they are far less common in the Sierra 3500HD lineup. If your truck has that configuration, the engine oil capacity is typically in the 8–9 quart range (roughly 7.5–8.5 liters). Confirm for your exact year and configuration in the owner's manual.
Oil type and change intervals
Using the correct oil specification is crucial for durability, especially in a high-tpayload heavy-duty pickup. The Duramax 6.6L typically requires a Dexos2-compliant full synthetic diesel engine oil, commonly 5W-40, though climate can influence the recommended grade. Always check the owner's manual or the under-hood fill cap for the exact spec for your vehicle.
Recommended approach for changes and top-offs:
- Check the dipstick after a complete oil change and top off to the full line if needed.
- Do not overfill—too much oil can cause foaming and pressure issues.
- Record the total oil added and the mileage; follow GM's recommended change interval for your usage and climate.
Consult the owner's manual for exact oil type, grade, and change interval for your vehicle year and engine variant.
Bottom line and quick reference
In practice, if you have the common GM Sierra 3500HD with the 6.6L Duramax diesel, you should expect to need about 11 quarts of oil with the filter during an oil change. Always verify with your specific vehicle's documentation and inspect the dipstick after filling to bring it to the full mark.
Additional notes
For any maintenance, ensure you are sourcing oil that meets GM's Dexos2 specification and that you follow proper disposal procedures for old oil.
Summary
The GMC Sierra 3500HD with the 6.6L Duramax diesel typically requires around 11 quarts (about 10.5 liters) of engine oil with the filter during an oil change, with some minor year-to-year variation. Always check your owner's manual or under-hood label for your exact engine configuration and climate conditions, and use a Dexos2-rated synthetic oil appropriate for a diesel engine.
What is the best oil for a 6.6 Duramax?
The best oil for a 6.6L Duramax is a heavy-duty diesel oil that meets the API CK-4 or CJ-4 classification, with a recommended viscosity of 15W-40 for most climates, or 5W-40 synthetic for colder temperatures. Popular and highly-regarded options include Shell Rotella T6, Amsoil Signature Series, and Mobil Delvac 1300 Super. Using a quality full synthetic oil is often recommended for better engine protection and performance, especially for heavy towing.
Recommended oil types and brands
- Full Synthetic: Provides superior protection, especially in extreme temperatures, and better soot dispersal.
- Shell Rotella T6 5W-40: A top choice, especially for cold weather, due to its excellent cold-start performance.
- Amsoil Signature Series 15W-40 or 5W-40: Known for exceptional wear protection and oxidation resistance.
- Conventional or Synthetic Blend:
- Mobil Delvac 1300 Super 15W-40: A well-rounded option suitable for warmer climates and heavy loads.
- Shell Rotella T4 15W-40: A reliable conventional option for warmer weather.
- Valvoline Premium Blue Extreme: Compatible with Duramax and recommended for mixed fleets.
Important considerations
- Service Classification: Always choose an oil with the correct API classification for diesel engines, such as CK-4 or CJ-4.
- Viscosity:
- 15W-40: The standard choice for most operating conditions.
- 5W-40 Full Synthetic: Recommended for climates where temperatures drop below 0∘0 raised to the composed with power0∘ Fahrenheit, as it provides better cold-start protection.
- Heavy-Duty Use: If you frequently tow heavy loads or operate in demanding conditions, a full synthetic oil is a worthwhile investment for superior protection.
How many quarts of oil does a GMC 3500 diesel take?
10 quarts
Engine Oil
10 quarts (with filter).
What oil does a 6.7 l turbo diesel take?
The recommended oil for a 6.7L diesel engine is typically 10W-30 for normal conditions, with 5W-40 full synthetic being a recommended alternative for severe duty or cold climates. Always confirm the specific oil type and specifications in your vehicle's owner's manual or on the oil filler cap, as requirements can vary by model year.
Recommended oil types
- 10W-30: The standard viscosity oil for normal operating conditions and temperatures above 0∘0 raised to the composed with power0∘F.
- 5W-40 Full Synthetic: Recommended for severe duty, heavy towing, and cold weather operation where it provides better cold-start protection.
- 15W-40: Some manufacturers allow this oil, but it is often only acceptable when running biofuel and is not a substitute for 5W-40 under severe conditions.
Key considerations
- Check your manual: Always consult your owner's manual or the oil cap for the exact specification and viscosity recommended for your specific truck.
- Severe duty: If you frequently tow, drive in extreme temperatures, or idle for long periods, you may want to use the 5W-40 full synthetic oil even if the temperature is not consistently cold.
- Specification: Ensure the oil meets the required specification, such as WSS-M2C171-F1 for Ford Powerstroke engines.
How many quarts of oil does a 6.6 l Duramax hold?
A 6.6L Duramax engine typically requires 10 quarts of oil for a complete oil and filter change. The capacity is the same for all generations, from the LB7 to the L5P. If you are not replacing the filter, the capacity is around 9.2 quarts.
- With filter: 10 quarts
- Without filter: 9.2 quarts
- Note: For medium-duty trucks or specific heavy-duty models, the capacity may be higher, sometimes up to 13–14.6 quarts. Always check your owner's manual to be certain.
