2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Complete Fluid Specifications

Quick Reference: 2016 Silverado 1500 Fluid Specs

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil	5W-30 (dexos1 Gen 2)	8.0 quarts (7.6 liters)
Engine Coolant	DEX-COOL (OAT)	15.6-17.4 quarts (14.8-16.5 liters)
Transmission Fluid	DEXRON-VI	6.0-12.4 quarts (5.7-11.7 liters)
Transfer Case Fluid	DEXRON-VI	1.6 quarts (1.5 liters)
Front Differential	75W-90 Synthetic	1.8 quarts (1.7 liters)
Rear Differential	75W-90 Synthetic	2.4-2.75 quarts (2.3-2.6 liters)
Brake Fluid	DOT 3	As needed
Power Steering Fluid	ACDelco Power Steering Fluid	As needed

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Engine Oil

The 2016 Silverado 1500 calls for 5W-30 synthetic motor oil meeting GM dexos1 Gen 2 specifications. Using an oil that meets this standard is critical for maintaining your engine's warranty and ensuring longevity. The dexos1 spec was developed by GM to combat low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) in their direct-injected engines. Non-certified oils may not offer the same level of protection.

Capacity: All engines (4.3L V6, 5.3L V8, 6.2L V8) require 8.0 quarts (7.6 liters) with a filter change. Always verify the level on the dipstick after filling.

Intervals: GM's Oil Life Monitoring System (OLMS) will dictate your change interval, typically between 5,000 and 7,500 miles. However, for heavy towing or frequent short trips, a 5,000-mile interval is recommended.

Engine Coolant

Your truck left the factory with DEX-COOL, a long-life Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant. It is orange in color. It is crucial not to mix DEX-COOL with conventional green or yellow coolants. Mixing OAT coolant with Hybrid OAT (HOAT) or Inorganic Additive Technology (IAT) coolants can cause it to gel, leading to blockages in the radiator and heater core.

Specification: Use a 50/50 mix of DEX-COOL and deionized water. The GM part number for concentrate is 12346290.

Capacity: The cooling system holds between 15.6 and 17.4 quarts (14.8-16.5 liters) depending on the engine and radiator configuration.

Intervals: DEX-COOL is rated for up to 5 years or 150,000 miles, but it's wise to test its condition every few years, especially if the vehicle has been operated in extreme temperatures.

Transmission Fluid

All 2016 Silverado 1500 models with the 6-speed (6L80) or 8-speed (8L90) automatic transmission require DEXRON-VI automatic transmission fluid. Do not use "universal" or multi-vehicle ATF; these fluids lack the specific frictional properties required for modern GM transmissions and can lead to shudder, poor shifting, and premature wear.

Specification: DEXRON-VI. Early DEXRON fluids (like III or IV) are not compatible and should not be used.

Capacity: A pan drop will require around 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters). A complete overhaul or flush will require 11.2 to 12.4 quarts (10.6-11.7 liters). Always verify with a "hot check" on the dipstick with the engine running and the transmission in Park.

Intervals: GM recommends a fluid and filter change every 45,000 miles for "severe" service (towing, hauling, city driving). For normal service, many owners opt for a 60,000-mile interval for preventative maintenance.

Transfer Case Fluid

Four-wheel-drive models are equipped with a transfer case that also requires DEXRON-VI ATF, the same as the transmission. This is a common point of confusion, as many other trucks use a dedicated gear oil or special transfer case fluid.

Capacity: The transfer case takes approximately 1.6 quarts (1.5 liters). Fill until fluid begins to weep from the fill hole.

Intervals: A 50,000-mile drain-and-fill interval is a good practice, especially if 4WD is used frequently.

Differential Fluid

Front Differential (4WD Models)

The front differential requires 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. No friction modifier is needed.

Capacity: Approximately 1.8 quarts (1.7 liters).

Rear Differential

The rear differential also uses 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. If your truck is equipped with the G80 locking rear differential, no additional friction modifier is needed. The locking mechanism is self-contained and does not rely on fluid additives.

Capacity: Varies slightly by axle, but is typically between 2.4 and 2.75 quarts (2.3-2.6 liters). Fill until fluid weeps from the fill hole.

Intervals: Check the fluid level at every oil change. A drain and fill every 50,000 to 75,000 miles is recommended. If you frequently tow or launch boats (submerging the axle), a 30,000-mile interval is cheap insurance against water contamination.

Brake Fluid

The hydraulic brake system uses DOT 3 brake fluid. While DOT 4 can be used as a substitute (it has a higher boiling point), it is more hygroscopic (absorbs moisture faster) and will require more frequent flushing. Never use DOT 5 silicone-based fluid, as it is incompatible with the system's seals.

Intervals: Brake fluid should be flushed every 2-3 years, regardless of mileage. As the fluid absorbs moisture, its boiling point drops, which can lead to a spongy pedal and reduced braking performance.

Power Steering Fluid

Unlike many vehicles that use ATF for power steering, GM specifies a dedicated ACDelco Power Steering Fluid (Part No. 19329450) for the 2016 Silverado's hydraulic or electric-hydraulic system. Using ATF can damage the pump and rack seals.

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