2018 Chevrolet Suburban Oil Capacity & Filter

The 2018 Chevrolet Suburban takes between 8.0 and 8.5 quarts of 0W-20 or 5W-30 engine oil, depending on the engine. This guide provides a detailed look at oil capacities, recommended oil types, filter part numbers, and maintenance tips for your 2018 Suburban.

Quick Answer

• Oil Capacity Change with Filter:
  • 5.3L V8 (L83): 8.0 quarts (7.6 Liters)
  • 6.2L V8 (L86): 8.5 quarts (8.0 Liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight: 0W-20 or 5W-30 (refer to your owner's manual for specific engine recommendations)
• Oil Type Spec: Dexos1 Gen 2 (or newer, e.g., Dexos1 Gen 3) full synthetic
• OEM Oil Filter Part Number:
  • 5.3L V8 (L83): ACDelco PF63F
  • 6.2L V8 (L86): ACDelco PF63F
• Aftermarket Oil Filter Cross-References:
  • Fram: PH10575
  • Wix: 57045
  • Mobil 1: M1-113

Capacity by Engine Option

Always confirm the exact oil weight recommendation in your owner's manual for your specific engine and operating conditions.

Oil Change Interval

General Motors recommends using the car's Oil Life Monitoring System (OLMS) to determine the ideal oil change interval. This system takes into account various factors like engine revolutions, operating temperature, and driving habits.

• Normal Duty: Typically, the OLMS will recommend an oil change between 7,500 and 10,000 miles, or at least once a year, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: If your driving involves frequent short trips, sustained idling, towing heavy loads, or extreme temperatures, the OLMS may trigger an oil change as early as 3,000-5,000 miles. Always follow the OLMS indicator.

Drain Plug Torque

The oil drain plug for the 2018 Chevrolet Suburban should be torqued to 18 lb-ft (24 Nm). Always use a new drain plug gasket or crush washer to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. Most new oil filters come with a new crush washer.

How to Change the Oil

1. Gather Supplies: New oil (correct type and capacity), new oil filter, drain pan, wrench for the drain plug, oil filter wrench, torque wrench, funnel, rags, and jack/jack stands if raising the vehicle.
2. Warm Up Engine (Optional): Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil, allowing it to drain more easily. Be careful, as the engine and oil will be hot.
3. Lift and Secure Vehicle: Safely lift the front of the Suburban using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
4. Locate Drain Plug and Pan: Place the drain pan directly beneath the oil pan drain plug. Unscrew the drain plug and allow all the old oil to drain completely.
5. Replace Drain Plug: Once all oil has drained, replace the drain plug with a new crush washer and torque it to 18 lb-ft (24 Nm).
6. Replace Oil Filter: Locate the oil filter, usually on the side of the engine block. Place the drain pan underneath. Use an oil filter wrench to remove the old filter. Apply a thin layer of new oil to the gasket of the new filter before screwing it on by hand until snug. Then, tighten an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn (or follow filter manufacturer's instructions).
7. Add New Oil: Lower the vehicle. Using a funnel, slowly add the recommended amount of new engine oil. Never overfill.
8. Check Oil Level: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the oil. Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, then check the oil level on the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary, but do not exceed the "full" mark.
9. Reset Oil Life Monitor: Follow the instructions in your owner's manual to reset the Oil Life Monitoring System.

Common Issues / Tips for this Generation

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) / Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM): The 5.3L and 6.2L engines in this generation of Suburban utilize AFM/DFM technology. Adhering to the recommended oil specifications (Dexos1 Gen 2/3) and rigorous oil change intervals is crucial. Poor oil quality or extended intervals can contribute to lifter issues and excessive oil consumption. Monitoring oil levels between changes is highly recommended.
• Oil Consumption: Some owners report elevated oil consumption in these engines, particularly the 5.3L. Regularly check your oil level on the dipstick, ideally every 1,000 miles, and top off as needed. This is not necessarily a "problem" if within manufacturer specifications but requires diligence.
• PCV System: A clogged or malfunctioning PCV valve can contribute to oil consumption and other engine issues. It's a good idea to inspect and potentially replace the PCV valve as part of routine maintenance if you notice increased oil consumption or unusual engine behavior.
• Proper Oil Filter Selection: Always use a high-quality oil filter that meets or exceeds OEM specifications. A cheap or incorrect filter can compromise oil flow and filtration, potentially leading to engine wear.

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