2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

The 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the popular 5.3L V8 engine takes 8.5 quarts (8.0 L) of 0W-20 synthetic oil.

Quick Answer

For a standard oil change on the most common 5.3L V8 engine, you'll need the following:

• Oil Capacity: 8.5 quarts / 8.0 Liters
• Recommended Oil Weight: SAE 0W-20
• Oil Specification: dexos1 Gen 2 (or newer, like Gen 3)
• Oil Filter (OEM): ACDelco PF63
• Popular Aftermarket Filters:
  • Fram: XG10575
  • Wix: 57060
  • Mobil 1: M1-212A

Capacity by Engine Option

The 2015 Silverado 1500 was available with three different EcoTec3 engines, and their oil requirements differ slightly. It is critical to use the correct oil viscosity to ensure proper operation of the engine's complex systems, like Active Fuel Management (AFM) and Variable Valve Timing (VVT).

Oil Change Interval

Your truck is equipped with an Oil Life Monitoring System (OLMS). For most drivers, the best practice is to change the oil when the "Change Engine Oil Soon" message appears.

• Normal Duty: The OLMS will typically recommend an oil change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles, or once a year, whichever comes first. This assumes normal highway driving conditions.
• Severe Duty: You should change your oil more frequently, around every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, if you use your truck for:
  • Frequent towing or hauling heavy loads
  • Extensive idling or stop-and-go city driving
  • Operating in extremely dusty or dirty conditions
  • Frequent short trips where the engine doesn't fully warm up

Drain Plug Torque

Properly tightening the drain plug prevents leaks without stripping the threads in the aluminum oil pan.

• Drain Plug Torque: 18 lb-ft (25 Nm)
• Crush Washer: The factory drain plug (GM Part No. 12616850) uses an integrated rubber seal. It is highly recommended to replace the entire plug or at least the seal with every oil change to ensure a leak-free seal. Do not overtighten.

How to Change the Oil (Short Version)

1. Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil, then shut it off.
2. Place a drain pan under the oil pan and remove the 15mm drain plug.
3. While the oil drains, position the pan under the oil filter and remove the filter using a filter wrench (it can be on very tight from the factory).
4. Wipe the filter mounting surface clean and apply a thin layer of new oil to the gasket of the new filter.
5. Spin the new filter on by hand until it's snug, then tighten it another three-quarters to one full turn.
6. Reinstall the drain plug and torque it to 18 lb-ft.
7. Refill the engine with the correct amount and type of oil.
8. Start the engine, let it run for 30 seconds, shut it off, and wait a minute before re-checking the oil level on the dipstick, adding more if necessary.
9. Reset the Oil Life Monitor by navigating through the vehicle information menu on the dashboard.

Common Issues / Tips

• Use a dexos1 Certified Oil: This generation of GM engines features Active Fuel Management (AFM), which deactivates cylinders to save fuel. This system can be sensitive to oil quality. Using a high-quality, full synthetic oil that meets the dexos1 specification is critical to prevent premature failure of AFM lifters, a common and expensive problem.
• Correct Viscosity is Key: The 0W-20 oil specified for the V8s is not just for fuel economy; it's essential for the proper function of the engine's Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system, especially during cold starts. Using a thicker oil can impede performance and may trigger a check engine light.
• Filter Access: The oil filter is located on the driver's side of the engine block. Access is straightforward, but as mentioned, the filter can be very tight. A sturdy cap-style or claw-foot filter wrench is recommended.

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