What oil is recommended for Chevy Silverado?
The Silverado typically uses Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil, with 0W-20 as the default viscosity for most gasoline engines and 5W-40–type grades used for Duramax diesels. Always check your specific year and engine in the owner's manual or GM's official oil specification sheet to confirm exact requirements.
This article breaks down the recommendations by engine type and year to help you choose the correct oil for your Silverado. It focuses on the most current guidance while noting where specifications can differ by model and climate.
Oil specifications by engine type
Gasoline-powered Silverado engines
Guidance for the gasoline-powered Silverado lineup (2.7L, 4.3L V6, 5.3L V8, 6.2L V8) generally follows GM’s Dexos1 Gen 2 standard. The most common practice is to use a Dexos1 Gen 2 certified oil with a 0W-20 viscosity, with 5W-30 as an acceptable alternative only where the owner’s manual specifically allows it or in particular climate conditions.
- Dexos1 Gen 2 certified oil with 0W-20 viscosity is the default recommendation for most modern Silverado gasoline engines.
- Dexos1 Gen 2 certified oil with 5W-30 viscosity can be used where GM specifies it or in certain climates or older engine configurations, per the owner's manual.
- Use a high-quality synthetic or synthetic-blend oil that meets Dexos1 Gen 2 specifications and follow GM’s recommended oil-change interval for your vehicle.
In practice, gasoline Silverado engines are generally lubricated with 0W-20 Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil as the standard choice, with 5W-30 as an alternative only when permitted by GM documentation or climate-specific guidance.
Diesel Duramax engines
Duramax-powered Silverados (notably the 3.0L inline-six and the heavier 6.6L V8 variants found in 2500HD/3500HD) use Dexos2-certified oil. The typical recommendation for modern Duramax engines is a Dexos2 synthetic oil, commonly available in 5W-40 viscosity, though some years or configurations may specify different viscosities. Always verify with the exact engine specification for your truck.
- Dexos2-certified full-synthetic oil, commonly 5W-40, is the standard for many Duramax-powered Silverados in recent years.
- Some older Duramax models or specific configurations may call for 0W-40 or another Dexos2 viscosity; check the owner's manual or GM service literature for your exact year and engine.
- Use only oils that meet Dexos2 specification to maintain warranty coverage and proper lubrication under heavy-duty use.
Diesel-powered Silverados rely on Dexos2 oil, with 5W-40 being a typical target for modern Duramax engines. Always confirm the exact specification for your vehicle, since diesel engines have different oil needs than gasoline engines.
Maintenance notes and practical tips
Beyond choosing the right oil, following the correct oil-change interval is essential. Synthetic Dexos1 Gen 2 oils generally allow longer intervals than conventional oils, but intervals vary by engine, driving conditions, and climate. Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended OCI (oil change interval) for your engine and driving style. If you use your Silverado for severe-service conditions—towing heavy loads, rapid temperature swings, or frequent short trips—you may need to shorten the interval accordingly.
If you’re unsure about your exact engine year or specification, consult your local Chevrolet dealer or a trusted mechanic. They can verify the Dexos designation and the correct viscosity for your Silverado based on the VIN and built year.
Summary
For most gasoline Silverado models, use Dexos1 Gen 2 oil with 0W-20 viscosity as the default; 5W-30 is an acceptable alternative in certain conditions or as specified by GM. For diesel Duramax engines, use Dexos2 oil, typically 5W-40 in modern configurations, with variations possible for older models. Always confirm the exact specification in the owner’s manual or GM service literature for your specific year and engine, and follow the recommended oil-change intervals based on driving conditions.
