What kind of oil does a 2010 Avalanche take?
The typical oil for a 2010 Chevrolet Avalanche is Dexos1-certified 5W-30 engine oil. The engine capacity for a standard 5.3L V8 is about 5 quarts with a filter, and you should always confirm the exact specification for your vehicle in the owner's manual or by checking the VIN label on the vehicle.
Oil specification for the 2010 Avalanche
Here are the core details you should know to select the right oil for this model year:
- Oil type: Dexos1-certified gasoline engine oil, commonly 5W-30. This is the standard recommendation for most 2010 Avalanches equipped with the 5.3L V8.
- Oil availability: You may use conventional Dexos1 5W-30, synthetic-blend Dexos1 5W-30, or full-synthetic Dexos1 5W-30, as long as the oil is Dexos1-certified.
- Climate considerations: Some climates may call for different viscosities only if the owner's manual specifies them; in practice, 5W-30 Dexos1 covers most conditions.
In short, the standard recommendation is Dexos1-certified 5W-30 for the 2010 Avalanche, with viscosity adjustments only per the manual and using Dexos1 to ensure compatibility with GM engines and emissions controls.
Oil capacity and maintenance intervals
Details on how much oil to add and how often to change it help keep the engine in top shape:
- Oil capacity: Approximately 5 quarts (about 4.7 liters) with a filter for the 5.3L V8; verify exact figure for your VIN and engine variant.
- Change interval: With synthetic Dexos1 5W-30, practitioners commonly see intervals around 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first; with conventional oil, many owners follow 3,000–5,000 mile ranges. Always follow the GM oil-life monitor (if equipped) or the manual’s guidance.
- Oil filter: Use a quality Dexos1-approved filter; ensure proper seating and torque when replacing.
These guidelines provide a practical baseline: plan for about 5 quarts of Dexos1 5W-30 and align changes with your driving conditions and oil type.
Verifying the exact specification for your vehicle
Because engine options and regional specifications can affect oil requirements, confirm the exact specification for your specific Avalanche by consulting the owner's manual, the under-hood label, or GM’s online resources using your VIN. If in doubt, ask a dealer or certified technician to confirm the proper oil viscosity and certification for your truck.
Summary
For a 2010 Avalanche, the recommended oil is Dexos1-certified 5W-30 engine oil. The typical capacity is about 5 quarts with a filter, and maintenance intervals range from roughly 3,000–7,500 miles depending on whether you use conventional or synthetic oil, with the oil-life monitor or manual guidance as the final authority. Always verify with your vehicle’s exact specifications.
