2017 Isuzu NQR Oil Capacity, Oil Weight & Filter Guide

The 2017 Isuzu NQR equipped with the 5.2L 4HK1-TC turbo-diesel engine requires approximately 14.8 quarts (14.0 liters) of engine oil when performing a standard oil and filter change. As an ASE-certified master technician, I regularly service these medium-duty workhorses, and getting the exact oil specification and maintenance intervals right is crucial to keeping that 4HK1 on the road and out of the shop.

Below is your comprehensive oil capacity and filter cross-reference guide for the 2017 Isuzu NQR.

Quick answer

Here are the essential specifications you need before you head to the parts counter or begin your service:

• Total Oil Capacity (with filter): 14.8 quarts (14.0 L)
• Recommended Oil Weight/Viscosity: 15W-40 (Heavy Duty Diesel). 5W-40 full synthetic may be used in consistently freezing climates.
• Required Oil Specification: API CJ-4 or API CK-4 (Low Ash is mandatory for DPF compatibility).
• OEM Oil Filter: Isuzu Part # 8973713340 (or 8-97371-334-0)
• Aftermarket Filter Cross-Reference: WIX 57203, FRAM PH10959, Baldwin B7395 (Always verify exact fitment with your parts supplier as mid-year housing changes can occur).

Capacity by engine option

The 2017 NQR in the North American market is exclusively powered by Isuzu’s legendary 4-cylinder diesel.

Oil change interval

Commercial trucks like the Isuzu NQR measure service intervals not just by mileage, but also by engine hours.

• Normal Duty: Every 10,000 miles, 500 engine hours, or 12 months (whichever comes first). This applies to highway driving with relatively light loads.
• Severe Duty: Every 5,000 miles, 250 engine hours, or 6 months. You fall into this category if your NQR is used for frequent idling, stop-and-go delivery routes, heavy towing, or driving in very dusty environments.

Drain plug torque

• Torque Specification: 29 to 33 lb-ft (39-44 Nm).
• Crush Washer: Always replace the drain plug gasket (crush washer) with a new one. Reusing the old copper or aluminum washer on a diesel oil pan is a guaranteed way to cause a slow, messy leak under your chassis.

How to change the oil

Servicing a cab-over-engine (COE) truck is slightly different than a traditional pickup. Here is a quick step-by-step:

1. Warm the Engine & Tilt the Cab: Run the engine to operating temperature, park on a level surface, and engage the parking brake. Safely tilt and lock the cab forward using the safety latches to access the top of the engine.
2. Drain the Oil: Place a large catch pan (at least 5 gallons) under the oil pan. Remove the drain plug and allow the oil to drain completely.
3. Replace the Filter: Locate the oil filter assembly on the passenger side of the engine block. Remove the old spin-on filter, wipe the mating surface clean, and lubricate the new filter's rubber O-ring with fresh oil. Pre-fill the new filter slightly if possible, then spin it on hand-tight plus about 3/4 of a turn.
4. Reinstall Drain Plug: Install the drain plug with a new crush washer and torque to 30 lb-ft.
5. Refill and Check: Fill the engine through the valve cover oil fill port with 14.8 quarts of API CK-4 15W-40 oil. Replace the cap, lower and lock the cab securely, and run the engine for a few minutes. Shut it down, wait 10 minutes, and check the dipstick to ensure the level is at the "FULL" mark.

Common issues / tips

When working on the 2017 Isuzu NQR generation, keep these specific points in mind:

• DPF System Sensitivity: You must use low-ash API CJ-4 or CK-4 oil. Using older CI-4 or non-diesel spec oils will rapidly clog the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), leading to expensive forced regenerations or complete DPF replacement.
• Chassis Greasing: An oil change on an NQR shouldn't just be an oil change. Take this time to grease the kingpins, tie rod ends, and driveline U-joints. Isuzu front ends require routine greasing to prevent premature kingpin wear.
• Cab Lock Warning: Never work under a tilted cab without ensuring the safety locking pin is securely engaged. A falling cab is a fatal hazard.
• Fuel Filter Servicing: It is highly recommended to change the primary and secondary fuel filters every other oil change on the 4HK1 to protect the high-pressure common rail fuel system.

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