What oil does a Chevy Silverado 3500 take?
The oil for a Chevy Silverado 3500 depends on the engine: gasoline-powered models generally require Dexos1 Gen2 motor oil with a GM-specified viscosity (often 0W-20 or 5W-30); diesel Duramax engines use Dexos2 motor oil (commonly 5W-40 full synthetic). Always check the owner's manual or under-hood label for the exact grade and specification.
In this article, we break down the oil requirements by engine type, explain how to identify your exact engine, and provide practical tips for choosing the right viscosity, oil type, and service intervals for Silverado 3500 trucks across recent model years.
Engine variants and oil specifications
Gasoline-powered Silverado 3500
Most gasoline-fired Silverado 3500 models use Dexos1 Gen2 motor oil. The precise viscosity (for example, 0W-20 or 5W-30) is specified by GM for your particular engine and operating climate. Look for the Dexos1 Gen2 label on the oil cap, the owner's manual, or the under-hood information sticker to confirm the exact grade.
To simplify, here are the key points you should know for gasoline engines:
- Use Dexos1 Gen2 motor oil that meets GM's specifications.
- Follow the viscosity grade indicated in your owner's manual (often 0W-20 or 5W-30 for GM gasoline engines).
- Oil can be synthetic or synthetic blend as defined by Dexos1 Gen2 requirements; many GM engines require synthetic oil.
For gasoline-powered Silverado 3500s, the essential rule is to use a GM-approved Dexos1 Gen2 oil with the viscosity specified for your engine and climate, then adhere to the maintenance schedule.
Duramax diesel Silverado 3500
The Duramax turbo-diesel versions of the Silverado 3500 require Dexos2 motor oil. A common specification is Dexos2 5W-40 synthetic, but the exact grade can vary by model year and regional conditions. Always verify the grade in the owner's manual or on the under-hood label.
Key notes for diesel engines include:
- Use Dexos2-approved motor oil.
- Common viscosity for Duramax diesels is 5W-40 full synthetic, but check the manual for the exact grade.
- In extreme temperatures or severe service, the manual may specify a different grade; always confirm with the official documentation.
In practice, Duramax-powered Silverado 3500s are typically paired with Dexos2 5W-40 synthetic oil, with the exact grade confirmed by GM's documentation for your year and climate.
How to confirm the right oil for your truck
Always refer to the owner’s manual, the oil filler cap, and the under-hood information sticker for the correct Dexos specification and viscosity. If you’re unsure, contact a Chevrolet dealer or a trusted mechanic and provide your exact model year and engine code.
Summary
The Chevy Silverado 3500 uses Dexos1 Gen2 oil for gasoline engines (viscosity per GM spec) and Dexos2 oil for Duramax diesels (commonly 5W-40). The exact viscosity and any special requirements depend on the engine and model year, so always verify in the owner’s manual or under-hood label. Using the correct Dexos-approved oil helps protect the engine and maintain warranty coverage, and following the recommended maintenance schedule ensures optimal performance.
What kind of oil does a Chevy Silverado 3500 take?
Oil Grade: CJ-4
| Viscosity: | 15W-40 (All TEMPS) 5W-40 (Below -18°C) |
|---|---|
| Capacity: | 10 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level. |
| Torque: | 18 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug) Replace drain plug seal. |
Can I use 5W-30 instead of 0W-20 in Silverado?
You can use 5W-30 instead of 0W-20 in a Silverado only if your owner's manual specifies it for your specific engine, such as the 2.7L turbocharged or 4.3L V6. For other engines like the 5.3L V8 and 6.2L V8, using the recommended 0W-20 is crucial, as using a thicker oil can cause problems, potentially even triggering a check engine light in some newer models.
For which engines is 5W-30 acceptable?
- 2.7L Turbocharged Engine: Many model years recommend SAE 5W-30.
- 4.3L V6 Engine: This engine typically uses SAE 5W-30.
- 6.6L V8 Engine: Some model years specify SAE 5W-30.
For which engines should you stick with 0W-20?
- 5.3L V8 Engine: The manufacturer recommends 0W-20 for optimal performance and fuel economy.
- 6.2L V8 Engine: This engine requires SAE 0W-20 oil.
- 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel: This diesel engine specifically requires SAE 0W-20 dexosD diesel engine oil.
Important considerations
- Check your owner's manual: The most reliable source is your vehicle's owner's manual. It will have the precise oil viscosity for your specific engine and model year.
- Warranty concerns: While using a different oil may not automatically void your warranty (unless the manufacturer can prove the oil caused the failure), it is always safest to use the oil specified by the manufacturer, especially on newer vehicles.
- Engine performance: The engine's computer is calibrated for the recommended oil. Using a thicker oil like 5W-30 could impact performance and fuel economy and may even cause a check engine light on newer models.
- Climate and driving conditions: In very hot climates, a thicker oil might seem beneficial, but the risks to modern engines can outweigh the potential benefits. The 0W-20 oil is designed to perform well across a wide range of temperatures and conditions.
What is the best oil to run in a 6.6 Duramax?
The best oil for a 6.6 Duramax is a high-quality full synthetic diesel oil that meets API CK4 or CJ4 specifications, with viscosity depending on your climate: 15W-40 for temperatures above 0∘0 raised to the composed with power0∘F and 5W-40 for temperatures below 0∘0 raised to the composed with power0∘F. Popular and well-regarded options include Shell Rotella T6, Mobil Delvac 1300, and Amsoil, among others.
Choosing the right oil
- For temperatures above 0∘0 raised to the composed with power0∘F: Use a 15W-40 diesel engine oil.
- For temperatures below 0∘0 raised to the composed with power0∘F: Use a 5W-40 diesel engine oil for better cold-start protection.
- For best performance: Full synthetic oil is ideal for its superior heat management and protection, though it may be more expensive than conventional options.
Recommended brands
- Shell Rotella T6 (5W-40 is a popular choice, but 15W-40 is also available)
- Mobil Delvac 1300
- Amsoil Heavy-Duty
- Valvoline Premium Blue
- Schaeffer's
Important considerations
- Check your owner's manual: Always confirm the specific recommendations for your exact model year in your vehicle's owner's manual.
- Oil filter: Use the correct oil filter, such as the ACDelco PF2232 or Wix, and prime the filter before installation.
- Oil analysis: Consider getting regular oil analysis to monitor engine health and potentially extend your oil change interval, especially when using premium synthetic oils.
- Change intervals: Follow the recommended oil change intervals, which are typically every 7,500 miles, but reduce this to 5,000 miles for severe service like towing or off-roading.
How many quarts of oil does a Chevy Silverado 3500 take?
With that said, most Silverado models take around six to eight quarts of oil, except for those with diesel engines, which typically hold slightly larger amounts of the recommended Chevy Silverado oil type.
