2016 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

Quick Answer

The 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD requires 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters) of 5W-30 motor oil for the 6.0L V8 gasoline engine and 10.0 quarts (9.5 liters) of 15W-40 or 5W-40 full synthetic diesel engine oil for the 6.6L Duramax LML diesel engine. Both engines require oil that meets specific specifications to ensure proper lubrication and longevity.

• 6.0L Vortec V8 (Gasoline)

  • Oil Capacity: 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters)
  • Recommended Oil Weight: 5W-30
  • Oil Specification: Dexos1 Gen2 (or newer, Dexos1 Gen3 is backwards compatible and preferred if available)
  • OEM Oil Filter Part Number: PF48E (ACDelco)
  • Aftermarket Cross-References:
    • Fram: PH10575
    • Wix: 57060
    • Mobil 1: M1-113

• 6.6L Duramax LML V8 (Diesel)

  • Oil Capacity: 10.0 quarts (9.5 liters)
  • Recommended Oil Weight: 15W-40 or 5W-40 Full Synthetic (for colder climates)
  • Oil Specification: API CJ-4 (or newer, e.g., CK-4)
  • OEM Oil Filter Part Number: 12706173 (ACDelco)
  • Aftermarket Cross-References:
    • Fram: CH10702
    • Wix: 57202
    • Mobil 1: M1C-252A

Capacity by Engine Option

Oil Change Interval

The oil change interval for your 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD depends on your driving conditions:

• Normal Duty: For the 6.0L gasoline engine, follow the Oil Life Monitoring (OLM) system, typically extending up to 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. For the 6.6L Duramax diesel, the OLM system typically suggests intervals up to 7,500 miles or 12 months, though some manufacturers permit longer intervals with specific oil types.
• Severe Duty: If you frequently tow heavy loads, drive in extreme temperatures, idle for extended periods, or drive in dusty conditions, the oil should be changed more frequently. For the 6.0L gasoline engine, consider changing the oil at 3,000-5,000 miles or every 6 months. For the 6.6L Duramax diesel, a 5,000-mile or 6-month interval is recommended under severe conditions.

Always check your owner's manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your specific vehicle's oil change intervals, as the OLM system may adjust based on driving habits.

Drain Plug Torque

Properly torquing the drain plug is crucial to prevent leaks and damage.

• 6.0L Vortec V8 (Gasoline): The drain plug torque is typically 21 lb-ft (28 Nm). Always use a new drain plug crush washer to ensure a good seal.
• 6.6L Duramax LML V8 (Diesel): The drain plug torque is typically 37 lb-ft (50 Nm). A new crush washer is also recommended for the diesel engine's drain plug.

How to Change the Oil

Changing the oil on your 2016 Silverado 3500HD is a straightforward task with the right tools:

1. Warm the Engine: Drive the truck for a few minutes to bring the oil to operating temperature, ensuring it flows easily.
2. Lift and Secure: Safely lift the front of the truck using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Ensure the truck is on a level surface.
3. Locate Drain Plug: Place an oil drain pan underneath the engine oil pan. Remove the drain plug with the appropriate wrench.
4. Drain Oil: Allow all the old oil to drain completely. This can take several minutes.
5. Replace Drain Plug: Once drained, reinstall the drain plug with a new crush washer and torque it to the specified value.
6. Remove Oil Filter: Position the drain pan under the oil filter. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter.
7. Prepare New Filter: Apply a thin film of new engine oil to the gasket of the new oil filter.
8. Install New Filter: Hand-tighten the new oil filter until the gasket makes contact, then turn an additional 3/4 to one full turn, or as specified on the filter.
9. Add New Oil: Remove the oil filler cap and carefully add the recommended amount and type of new oil. Use a funnel to prevent spills.
10. Check Oil Level: After adding the oil, wait a few minutes for it to settle, then check the oil level with the dipstick. Add more if necessary.
11. Start Engine & Recheck: Start the engine and let it run for a minute to circulate the new oil. Check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, and recheck the oil level, topping off if needed.
12. Reset OLM: Reset the Oil Life Monitoring system by following the instructions in your owner's manual.

Common Issues / Tips (2011-2016 LML Duramax & K2XX Platform)

• LML Duramax CP4 Fuel Pump: The 6.6L Duramax LML engine (2011-2016) uses a Bosch CP4 high-pressure fuel pump. This pump is known for potential failures that can contaminate the entire fuel system with metal shavings, leading to costly repairs. While oil changes don't directly mitigate this, using clean, specified diesel fuel and changing the fuel filter regularly are crucial preventative measures. Some owners opt for aftermarket lift pumps or CP3 conversion kits for added peace of mind.
• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System: The DEF system on the Duramax can sometimes experience sensor issues, quality issues with DEF, or heater element failures, especially in cold climates. Keep the DEF tank topped off with high-quality, fresh DEF to prevent warnings and potential limp mode.
• Gasoline (6.0L Vortec) AFM/DOD System: While less prevalent on the 3500HD compared to lighter-duty trucks, the 6.0L gasoline engine uses Active Fuel Management (AFM) or Displacement On Demand (DOD) to improve fuel economy. This system can sometimes lead to excessive oil consumption or lifter failures due to collapsed lifters. Using the correct Dexos-approved oil and adhering to strict oil change intervals is critical. Some owners opt for AFM disabler devices or AFM delete kits to prevent potential issues.
• Regular Fluid Checks: Beyond engine oil, regularly check all fluid levels (transmission fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid) given the heavy-duty nature of the 3500HD.
• Proper Maintenance for Towing: If you frequently tow or haul, consider shorter oil change intervals, especially for the transmission fluid. Heavy-duty use puts more strain on all components.

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