What oil does a 2500HD 6.0 take?
The 2500HD with the 6.0-liter Vortec typically uses 5W-30 Dexos1 Gen 2 engine oil, with a capacity of about 6 quarts (5.8 liters) including the filter. Always verify the exact specification for your model year in the owner's manual or on the oil cap.
In more detail, GM’s heavy-duty pickups powered by the 6.0L Vortec generally require oil that meets the Dexos1 Gen 2 specification and a viscosity of 5W-30. While 5W-30 is the standard choice in most climates, the precise requirements can vary slightly by year and configuration. Checking the manual or speaking with a GM service representative ensures you use the correct oil for your truck’s year and drivetrain setup.
Recommended oil type and specification
Understanding the right oil specification helps protect the engine and support warranty coverage. The Dexos1 Gen 2 standard is the current benchmark GM uses for many U.S.-market GM engines, including the 6.0L Vortec found in the 2500HD. The common viscosity for this application is 5W-30, and the oil can be synthetic, synthetic blend, or conventional as long as it carries the Dexos1 Gen 2 certification.
Dexos1 Gen 2 and viscosity
The preferred option is Dexos1 Gen 2 certified 5W-30 engine oil. Oils carrying this certification are designed to meet GM’s performance and warranty requirements for modern engines. In typical driving conditions, 5W-30 is the standard grade; for older engines or extreme climates, consult the owner's manual for any deviations.
Oil capacity
Oil capacity for a typical 6.0L Vortec in a 2500HD is about 6 quarts (5.8 liters) with a filter. After an oil change, fill to the full mark on the dipstick and recheck. If a new filter is installed, you may need to top up slightly to reach the full capacity.
Shopping guidance: What to look for
Before purchasing oil, here’s what to keep in mind to ensure compatibility and performance.
- Dexos1 Gen 2 certification on the bottle
- Viscosity: 5W-30 (synthetic, synthetic blend, or full synthetic)
- Appropriate quality grade for your climate and driving conditions
- Brand reliability and compatibility with GM service guidelines
Choosing oil with the Dexos1 Gen 2 label and a 5W-30 viscosity is the safest, warranty-friendly option for most 6.0L-equipped 2500HD trucks. Synthetic options are common for extended drain intervals and high-temperature durability.
Oil change intervals and practical tips
Oil change intervals depend on oil type, climate, and driving style. With Dexos1 Gen 2 oils, many owners follow longer intervals when using synthetic oil, while conventional oil typically requires more frequent changes. A common guideline is about 7,500 miles (12,000 km) between changes with synthetic Dexos1 Gen 2, or around 5,000 miles (8,000 km) with conventional oil. Always rely on the vehicle’s oil life monitor if equipped and follow GM’s manual recommendations.
Summary
For the Chevrolet/GMC 2500HD fitted with the 6.0L Vortec, use Dexos1 Gen 2 5W-30 engine oil and plan to purchase roughly 6 quarts (5.8 liters) per change, including the filter. Confirm the exact specification for your model year in the owner’s manual or with a GM dealer, and follow the recommended change intervals based on your driving conditions and oil type.
