2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

The 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 with the 5.3L V8 engine takes 8.0 quarts (7.6 liters) of 0W-20 synthetic oil that meets the dexos1 Gen 2 specification.

Quick Answer

• Oil Capacity: 8.0 qts (7.6 L) for 5.3L V8 / 6.0 qts (5.7 L) for 4.3L V6 / 8.0 qts (7.6 L) for 6.2L V8
• Recommended Oil Weight: SAE 0W-20 (5W-30 is optional for the 5.3L/6.2L V8s, but 0W-20 is preferred for fuel economy)
• Oil Specification: dexos1® Gen 2 Synthetic Motor Oil
• Oil Filter (OEM): ACDelco PF63E
• Oil Filter (Aftermarket Cross-Reference): Fram PH10575, Mobil 1 M1-212A, WIX 57502

Capacity by Engine Option

Oil Change Interval

The 2018 Sierra 1500 uses an Oil Life Monitoring (OLM) system. The truck will display a "Change Engine Oil Soon" message when it's time for a service. However, the interval depends heavily on your driving habits.

• Normal Duty: The OLM will typically recommend an oil change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles. This assumes mostly highway driving in moderate conditions.
• Severe Duty: If you frequently tow heavy loads, drive in extreme temperatures (hot or cold), make many short trips, or drive in dusty/dirty conditions, you should change the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, regardless of what the OLM says.

Drain Plug Torque

• Drain Plug Torque Spec: 18 lb-ft (25 Nm)
• Crush Washer: It is highly recommended to replace the drain plug gasket/washer at every oil change to prevent leaks. The GM part number is 12616850.

How to Change the Oil (5.3L V8)

1. Run the engine for 2-3 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, locate the oil filter housing. The filter is a cartridge style, located on the passenger side of the engine block.
4. Unscrew the filter canister, remove the old filter and the old O-ring seal.
5. Install the new O-ring on the canister cap and insert the new filter.
6. Lubricate the new O-ring with fresh oil and screw the canister back on. Do not overtighten.
7. Reinstall the drain plug with a new crush washer and torque to 18 lb-ft.
8. Refill the engine with 8.0 quarts of 0W-20 dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil.
9. Start the engine, check for leaks, and then shut it off. Wait a few minutes and re-check the oil level on the dipstick, topping off if necessary.
10. Reset the Oil Life Monitor through the instrument cluster menu.

Common Issues / Tips

• Active Fuel Management (AFM): The 5.3L and 6.2L engines use AFM, which can sometimes lead to oil consumption issues. Using the correct dexos1 Gen 2 certified oil is critical for the proper function of the AFM lifters. Some owners report that using a slightly thicker 5W-30 oil (which is GM-approved) can help reduce consumption on higher-mileage engines.
• Cartridge Filter: Unlike older models, the 2014-2018 generation uses a cartridge-style filter (ACDelco PF63E). Be careful not to crack the plastic filter housing cap when removing or installing it.
• Oil Level Sensor: These trucks are known for potential oil level sensor failures, which can cause a faulty "Low Oil" warning on the dash. If your oil level is full on the dipstick but the warning persists, the sensor may need replacement.
• Catch Can: Many owners install an oil catch can, especially on the direct-injected 5.3L and 6.2L V8s. This helps to capture oil blow-by and crankcase vapors before they can build up on the intake valves, which is a common issue with direct injection.

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