What kind of oil does a 2018 Suburban take?
The 2018 Chevrolet Suburban primarily requires Dexos1 Gen 2 motor oil with a viscosity of 0W-20 as the default. An alternative of 5W-30 Dexos1 Gen 2 is acceptable in warmer climates or under certain service conditions, but you should always confirm the exact specification in your owner’s manual or with a GM dealer.
Oil requirements for the 2018 Suburban are driven by GM’s Dexos1 Gen 2 standard and by climate and driving conditions. While many owners stick to 0W-20 for efficiency and emissions considerations, there are circumstances where 5W-30 may be permitted. The vehicle may be equipped with a 5.3L V8 or other engines, but all variants generally fall under the Dexos1 Gen 2 umbrella. This article lays out the core facts, common options, and practical guidance to help you choose the right oil and avoid compatibility issues.
Understanding the oil specification for the 2018 Suburban
GM specifies motor oils that meet the Dexos1 Gen 2 standard for most 2010s GM vehicles, including the Suburban. Oils that carry the Dexos1 Gen 2 certification are formulated to protect modern engines and comply with emissions systems while supporting reliable performance and drain intervals when used as directed.
Dexos1 Gen 2: What it means for your engine
Dexos1 Gen 2 is a licensing standard used by General Motors for gasoline engines. Oils meeting this specification are designed to meet GM engine tolerances, temperature ranges, and filtration and catalytic converter requirements. Always look for the Dexos1 Gen 2 label on the oil container to ensure compatibility with a GM vehicle of this era.
Recommended viscosity options for the 2018 Suburban
There are two common viscosity options associated with Dexos1 Gen 2 for the Suburban. The primary recommendation is 0W-20 for everyday driving in most climates. In warmer climates or under certain operating conditions, 5W-30 Dexos1 Gen 2 may be permitted; always verify with the owner's manual or a GM service advisor before using an alternate viscosity.
Here are the typical oil choices you’ll encounter in the market.
- Dexos1 Gen 2 0W-20: Primary recommendation for most driving conditions and climates.
- Dexos1 Gen 2 5W-30: Acceptable in warmer climates or under severe service, if the owner’s manual allows it.
Conclusion: For routine use, 0W-20 Dexos1 Gen 2 is the safest default. If you live in a hot climate or run the vehicle under heavy load, you may consider 5W-30 Dexos1 Gen 2 after confirming with the manual or a GM technician.
Practical guidance for picking and using the right oil
How to verify your oil meets Dexos1 Gen 2
Check the bottle label for Dexos1 Gen 2 certification. Do not rely on generic “Dexos” branding alone, as Dexos1 Gen 2 certification is specific to GM’s modern engines. If in doubt, ask a GM service professional or refer to your owner’s manual.
Choosing the right viscosity for your climate
In northern or temperate climates, 0W-20 is commonly recommended. In very hot climates or under sustained high-load conditions, 5W-30 may be advised if approved by the manual. Always align with the manual’s guidance and local service advisories.
Maintenance notes and drain intervals
Oil change intervals for the 2018 Suburban depend on driving conditions and the oil used. Dexos1 Gen 2 oils can support longer drain intervals when used under normal driving conditions, but many owners opt for a 5,000–7,500 mile (or 8,000–12,000 km) schedule with conventional oils, and up to 10,000–15,000 miles (16,000–24,000 km) with synthetic oils, depending on GM recommendations and service history. Always follow the interval specified in the owner’s manual and consider an oil life monitor if equipped.
Summary
For a 2018 Suburban, the recommended engine oil is Dexos1 Gen 2 with a primary viscosity of 0W-20. An alternative of 5W-30 Dexos1 Gen 2 is possible in certain climates or service conditions, but you should verify the exact specification for your vehicle in the owner’s manual or with a GM dealer. Ensure any oil you purchase carries the Dexos1 Gen 2 certification and follow the manufacturer’s advised drain intervals for best performance and engine protection. Proper oil choice helps maintain emissions compliance, fuel efficiency, and engine longevity.
What oil does a 5.3 suburban take?
If you drive a 2025 configuration, here is the Chevy Suburban recommended oil: 2025 Chevy Suburban Oil Type – Full synthetic SAE 0W-20 with the dexos1 approved logo.
How much oil does a 2018 Chevy Suburban 5.3 take?
Oil Grade: SEOC3
| Viscosity: | 0W-20 (All TEMPS) |
|---|---|
| Capacity: | 8 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level. |
| Torque: | 18 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug) |
What oil does a 2018 Chevy 5.3 take?
In general, the top Chevy Silverado 1500 oil type is SAE 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil from ACDelco's dexos1 standard for the 5.3L and 6.2L engines.
Can I use 5W-30 instead of 0W-20 in Silverado?
Yes, you can use Dexos1 Gen 2 or Gen 3 5W-30 in your 2025 Silverado engine while you're in a specific location, especially if 0W-20 is unavailable. It is recommended to use 0W-20 for fuel economy (CAFE standards), but the 5.3L Gen V V8 engine is mechanically capable of running 5W-30, particularly in hot climates.
