2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

Quick Answer

The 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD takes 10 quarts (9.5 liters) of oil for both the 6.0L V8 gasoline engine and the 6.6L Duramax turbo-diesel V8 engine.

Here's a quick breakdown:

• Oil Capacity: 10 quarts (9.5 liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight (6.0L Gas): SAE 0W-20
• Recommended Oil Spec (6.0L Gas): dexos1 Gen2 (or newer dexos1 Gen3) or API SN PLUS / SP (or equivalent ILSAC GF-5 / GF-6A)
• Recommended Oil Weight (6.6L Diesel): SAE 15W-40 (preferred temperature range above 0°F / -18°C) or SAE 5W-40 (for temperatures below 0°F / -18°C)
• Recommended Oil Spec (6.6L Diesel): CJ-4, CK-4 (preferred) or ACEA E9
  • Note: For the diesel engine, CK-4 oils offer improved shear stability and oxidation resistance over CJ-4, making them a better choice when available.
• Oil Filter (6.0L Gas):
  • OEM: ACDelco PF63F
  • Fram Cross-Ref: PH10575
  • Wix Cross-Ref: 57060
  • Mobil 1 Cross-Ref: M1-113A
• Oil Filter (6.6L Diesel):
  • OEM: ACDelco PF2232F (or PF2232 for older designs)
  • Fram Cross-Ref: CH11904
  • Wix Cross-Ref: 57920
  • Mobil 1 Cross-Ref: M1C-452A

Capacity by Engine Option

Oil Change Interval

The oil change interval for your 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD depends on your driving conditions:

• Normal Duty: For vehicles primarily driven in ideal conditions (highway cruising, minimal towing/hauling, moderate temperatures), follow the Oil Life Monitor (OLM) system, which can recommend oil changes up to 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: If you frequently drive in demanding conditions such as heavy towing or hauling, extreme temperatures, dusty environments, extensive idling, or short trips, it is highly recommended to change your oil more frequently. Many owners and technicians advise changing the oil and filter every 5,000 miles or 6 months under these conditions, regardless of the OLM's indication, especially for the diesel engine.

Always consult your owner's manual for the most accurate and specific recommendations for your vehicle.

Drain Plug Torque

The correct drain plug torque is crucial to prevent leaks and avoid damaging the oil pan threads. Always use a new crush washer with each oil change.

• 6.0L V8 (Gasoline) Drain Plug Torque: 18 lb-ft (25 Nm)
• 6.6L Duramax V8 (Diesel) Drain Plug Torque: 33 lb-ft (45 Nm)

A new crush washer helps create a watertight seal. Reusing an old, compressed washer can lead to leaks.

How to Change the Oil

Changing the oil on your 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD is a straightforward process:

1. Warm up the engine: Drive the vehicle for a few minutes to bring the oil up to operating temperature, making it flow more easily.
2. Park and secure: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and safely lift the front of the truck with a jack and secure it with jack stands. For diesel models, both front and rear may need to be raised for better access.
3. Locate and remove drain plug: Place a large drain pan under the oil pan. Using the correct size wrench, carefully remove the drain plug. Allow all the old oil to drain completely.
4. Replace crush washer and reinstall drain plug: Once drained, clean the drain plug, install a new crush washer, and reinstall the drain plug, tightening it to the specified torque.
5. Remove old oil filter: Position the drain pan under the oil filter. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter. Be prepared for some residual oil to spill.
6. Prepare and install new oil filter: Apply a thin film of new engine oil to the rubber gasket of the new filter. Hand-tighten the new filter until the gasket makes contact, then turn it an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn (or follow filter manufacturer instructions).
7. Add new engine oil: Carefully pour the recommended amount and type of new engine oil into the oil fill cap opening. For the Duramax, consider adding about 9 quarts first, then check the dipstick.
8. Check oil level: Start the engine and let it run for a minute or two to circulate the oil. Shut it off, wait a few minutes for the oil to settle, then check the dipstick. Add small amounts of oil as needed until the level is within the safe range.
9. Reset Oil Life Monitor: Follow the procedure in your owner's manual to reset the Oil Life Monitor.
10. Inspect for leaks: Double-check the drain plug and oil filter for any signs of leaks.

Common Issues / Tips

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) & Oil: For the 6.6L Duramax, proper oil selection (low-ash CK-4 or CJ-4) is crucial due to the DPF system. Using incorrect oil can lead to premature DPF clogging and costly repairs.
• Oil Filter Housing (Diesel): Some Duramax owners have reported issues with the oil filter housing developing leaks over time. Pay attention to any oil drips in this area.
• Gas Engine Oil Consumption (6.0L): While not widespread, some 6.0L gas engines (especially those with Active Fuel Management, though less common on HD trucks) can exhibit higher-than-average oil consumption. Regularly checking your oil level between changes is good practice.
• Synthetic vs. Conventional (Gas): While not strictly required for the 6.0L, many owners opt for full synthetic oil due to its superior protection, especially under heavy loads or towing, which are common for 2500HD trucks. This aligns with the dexos1 specification.
• Dipstick Accuracy: Always ensure your truck is on a level surface when checking the oil to get an accurate reading.

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