2019 GMC Yukon Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

The 2019 GMC Yukon requires 8.0 quarts (7.6 liters) of 0W-20 engine oil when changing the oil and filter. As an ASE-certified master technician, I regularly service these full-size GM SUVs, and staying on top of your oil maintenance is absolutely critical to keeping your Yukon's V8 engine running smoothly for years to come.

Whether you are driving the standard SLE/SLT with the 5.3L V8 or the luxurious Denali trim equipped with the 6.2L V8, this guide covers everything you need to know to complete a proper oil service on your 2019 GMC Yukon.

Quick Answer

Here are the essential specifications for the 2019 GMC Yukon:

• Oil Capacity: 8.0 quarts (7.6 liters) with oil filter change.
• Recommended Weight (Viscosity): 0W-20 (Full Synthetic).
• Oil Specification: GM dexos1™ Gen 2 (or the newer Gen 3) / API SP.
• OEM Oil Filter: ACDelco PF63 (or PF63E).
• Aftermarket Oil Filters: Fram PH10575 / XG10575, Wix WL10255, Mobil 1 M1-212A.

Capacity by Engine Option

For the 2019 model year, the GMC Yukon and Yukon XL were offered with two naturally aspirated V8 engine options. Both utilize the same oil capacity and viscosity.

Note: Always verify the oil level on the dipstick after refilling and running the engine for a few minutes.

Oil Change Interval

The 2019 GMC Yukon is equipped with GM's Intelligent Oil-Life System (OLS), which calculates oil degradation based on driving conditions, engine temperatures, and idle time. While you can follow the dashboard monitor, as a technician, I recommend the following baselines:

• Normal Duty: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months. Severe duty applies if you frequently tow heavy trailers, idle extensively, drive in dusty environments, or make mostly short trips where the engine never fully warms up.

Drain Plug Torque

• Drain Plug Torque: 18 lb-ft (25 Nm).
• Washer Note: The factory drain plug on these GM V8s uses an integrated rubber O-ring gasket rather than a traditional crush washer. Inspect this O-ring at every oil change. If it is flattened, cracked, or torn, replace the entire drain plug to prevent leaks. Do not over-torque the plug, as the aluminum oil pan threads can strip.

How to Change the Oil

Performing an oil change on the 2019 Yukon is straightforward thanks to its high ground clearance.

1. Warm up the engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil, which helps it drain faster and suspend contaminants.
2. Safely lift the vehicle (if necessary): Use ramps or a jack and jack stands if you need more clearance, though many can slide right under a stock 4x4 Yukon.
3. Drain the old oil: Locate the 15mm drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan. Position a large drain pan (minimum 10-quart capacity) underneath, remove the plug, and let the oil drain completely.
4. Replace the oil filter: Move your drain pan under the oil filter. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter. Lubricate the rubber gasket on the new ACDelco PF63 filter with fresh oil, then install it by hand until tight (typically 3/4 to 1 full turn after the gasket makes contact).
5. Reinstall the drain plug: Wipe the mating surface clean, thread the drain plug in by hand, and torque it to 18 lb-ft.
6. Refill and check: Add 8.0 quarts of dexos1-approved 0W-20 oil through the filler neck. Start the engine, check for leaks underneath, shut it off, and verify the fluid level on the dipstick after letting it sit for five minutes.
7. Reset the Oil Life Monitor: Navigate your driver information center to the "Oil Life" screen, press and hold the checkmark (or reset button) to reset it to 100%.

Common Issues & Tips for the 2019 Yukon

• AFM/DFM Lifter Failure: The 5.3L and 6.2L engines use Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation). The special lifters used in this system are highly sensitive to dirty oil and low oil pressure. Sticking to a strict 5,000-mile synthetic oil change interval is the best preventative maintenance you can do to avoid costly lifter failure and camshaft damage.
• Large Capacity Drain Pan Needed: 8 quarts of oil comes out fast. Ensure your catch pan is rated for at least 10–12 quarts so it doesn't overflow.
• Filter Placement: The oil filter is located near the front driver's side of the oil pan. It sits vertically, which makes it relatively clean to remove, but having some shop rags handy is always smart.

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