2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

The 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 takes between 6.0 to 8.0 quarts of engine oil, depending on the engine. This guide provides all the essential information for maintaining your 2016 GMC Sierra 1500's engine oil.

Quick Answer

• Total Oil Capacity:
  • 4.3L V6 (LV3): 6.0 US Quarts (5.7 Liters)
  • 5.3L V8 (L83): 8.0 US Quarts (7.6 Liters)
  • 6.2L V8 (L86): 8.0 US Quarts (7.6 Liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight: SAE 5W-30
• Oil Type Specification: Dexos1 Gen2 (or newer Dexos1 specification for gasoline engines, e.g., Dexos1 Gen3) and API SN (or newer API specification, e.g., API SP) for gasoline engines.
• Oil Filter Part Numbers:
  • OEM AC Delco: PF63F
  • Fram: PH10575
  • Wix: 57060
  • Mobil 1: M1-113

Capacity by Engine Option

Oil Change Interval

GM recommends following the Oil Life Monitoring (OLM) system for oil change intervals. This system monitors various operating conditions to determine when an oil change is needed. Generally, you can expect:

• Normal Duty Driving: Typically, the OLM will recommend an oil change between 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty Driving: In conditions such as frequent short trips, sustained idling, towing, or very dusty environments, the OLM may recommend an oil change as early as 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

Always check your vehicle's Oil Life Monitoring system and consult your owner's manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Drain Plug Torque

The oil drain plug on the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 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. Failure to do so can result in oil leaks.

How to Change the Oil

Changing the oil on your 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 is a straightforward process for the DIY mechanic:

1. Preparation: Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Allow the engine to cool for at least 30 minutes. Gather your tools, including a wrench for the drain plug, an oil filter wrench, a drain pan, new oil, a new oil filter, and a funnel.
2. Drain Oil: Place the drain pan under the oil pan. Using the correct size wrench, carefully remove the drain plug. Allow all the old oil to drain completely.
3. Replace Drain Plug: Once all the oil has drained, clean the drain plug and install a new crush washer. Reinstall the drain plug and torque it to 18 lb-ft (24 Nm).
4. Remove Oil Filter: Position the drain pan under the old oil filter. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter. Be prepared for some oil to spill.
5. Install New Oil Filter: Apply a thin coat of new engine oil to the gasket of the new oil filter. Thread the new filter onto the engine by hand until it's snug, then tighten it an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn. Do not overtighten.
6. Add New Oil: Remove the engine oil filler cap and place a funnel in the opening. Carefully pour in the recommended amount of new oil for your engine (refer to the "Capacity by Engine Option" table above).
7. Check Oil Level: Replace the oil filler cap. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil. Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle. Check the oil level on the dipstick and add more if necessary to bring it to the "Full" mark.
8. Reset Oil Life Monitor: Refer to your owner's manual for instructions on how to reset the Oil Life Monitoring system.

Common Issues / Tips

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) / Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM): GM's V8 engines in this generation often feature AFM (or DFM in newer models), which can be sensitive to oil levels and quality. Ensure you use the correct Dexos1 approved oil and maintain proper oil levels to prevent potential issues related to lifter noise or failure.
• Oil Consumption: Some 5.3L V8 engines from this era may exhibit higher than normal oil consumption. Regularly check your oil level between changes and top off as needed. Early detection and proper maintenance can mitigate potential problems.
• Oil Filter Location: The oil filter is located on the front left (driver's side) of the engine, making it relatively accessible for replacement.
• Plastic Oil Pan (Some Models): Be aware that some 2016 Sierra 1500 models, particularly those with the 4.3L V6, may have a composite (plastic) oil pan and drain plug. Exercise caution when removing and tightening the drain plug to avoid stripping or cracking.

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