2020 Isuzu NQR Oil Capacity & Filter

The 2020 Isuzu NQR with the 5.2L 4HK1-TC diesel engine requires 10.0 quarts (9.5 liters) of 15W-40 or 5W-40 API CK-4 engine oil.

Quick Answer

• Oil Capacity: 10.0 qts / 9.5 L
• Recommended Oil Weight: 15W-40 (conventional) or 5W-40 (synthetic)
• Oil Specification: API Service Classification CK-4
• Oil Filter Part Number (OEM): Isuzu 8-98165-071-0
• Oil Filter Part Number (Aftermarket):
  • Fram P1157
  • Wix 57202
  • Mobil 1: Consult dealer/parts store

Capacity by Engine Option

The 2020 Isuzu NQR was offered with one engine, the 5.2L 4HK1-TC turbocharged and intercooled diesel engine.

Oil Change Interval

For commercial vehicles like the NQR, the oil change interval is dictated by mileage or time, whichever comes first. Given its typical use in demanding applications, most operators will follow a severe-duty schedule.

• Normal Duty: Isuzu does not specify a "normal" duty cycle for this commercial vehicle. All maintenance should follow the severe schedule.
• Severe Duty: Change the engine oil and filter every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or annually, whichever occurs first. Severe duty includes frequent short trips, extensive idling, operation in dusty or dirty conditions, and heavy hauling.

Drain Plug Torque

Properly tightening the drain plug is critical to prevent leaks.

• Drain Plug Torque: 63 lb-ft (85 Nm)
• Crush Washer: Always replace the drain plug gasket (crush washer) with a new one (Isuzu part number 8-94107-779-2) at every oil change to ensure a proper seal.

How to Change the Oil

Changing the oil on an NQR is a straightforward process, though it involves a larger volume of oil than a typical passenger car.

1. Warm the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil, which helps it drain more completely.
2. Prepare: Park the truck on a level surface. Place a drain pan with a capacity of at least 12 quarts under the oil pan drain plug.
3. Drain the Oil: Remove the drain plug and allow the old oil to drain completely. This may take 10-15 minutes.
4. Replace Filter: While the oil is draining, locate and remove the oil filter. The filter is a canister type, typically located on the driver's side of the engine. Apply a thin coat of new oil to the gasket of the new filter before spinning it on. Tighten the filter according to the manufacturer's instructions (usually hand-tight plus an additional 3/4 to one full turn).
5. Reinstall Plug: Clean the drain plug and the mating surface on the oil pan. Install the new crush washer and reinstall the drain plug, torquing it to 63 lb-ft.
6. Refill Oil: Add 10.0 quarts of the correct specification oil through the oil fill cap on the valve cover.
7. Check for Leaks: Start the engine and let it run for about a minute while checking for leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. Shut off the engine, wait a few minutes for the oil to settle, and re-check the oil level on the dipstick, adding more if necessary to reach the full mark.

Common Issues / Tips

• Oil Filter Access: The oil filter is mounted vertically on the side of the engine block and is generally easy to access once you are under the truck.
• Use CK-4 Oil: The 4HK1-TC engine requires API service CK-4 oil to protect the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and other emissions components. Using older specifications like CJ-4 is not recommended and can lead to premature DPF plugging.
• Synthetic vs. Conventional: While conventional 15W-40 is sufficient, many fleet operators opt for a full synthetic 5W-40 CK-4 oil. Synthetic oil provides better cold-start protection and may offer slightly extended drain interval capability, though it is best to stick to the 10,000-mile recommendation unless performing regular oil analysis.
• Check for Fuel Dilution: Like many modern diesel engines with complex emissions systems, the 4HK1-TC can be susceptible to fuel dilution of the engine oil. If you notice the oil level rising over time or smell a strong diesel odor from the dipstick, consult a qualified technician. This can be a symptom of a leaking injector or an issue with the DPF regeneration process.

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