🛢️ 1999–2022 Chevy/GMC 5.3L Oil Capacity and Oil Type Lookup

By Randy Worner • ASE Certified Master Technician • Updated 2024

The 5.3L Vortec (also known as the EcoTec3 in newer models) is one of GM’s most reliable and widely used V8 engines. If you’re wondering how much oil your Chevy or GMC 5.3 engine takes — you’re in the right place.

Most 5.3L engines use either 6 quarts or 8 quarts of oil, depending on the model year and vehicle type. For example, a 2005 Chevy Avalanche takes 6 quarts, while a 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 with Active Fuel Management takes 8 quarts.

This guide includes a VIN-specific lookup table, plus detailed breakdowns by model and year — including oil capacity and recommended viscosity.

🔍 Chevy/GMC 5.3L Oil Capacity & Oil Type Lookup Table

Select your vehicle’s year and model below to check both the oil capacity and recommended oil type (viscosity):

🧰 Can’t find your vehicle? Leave a comment or check out our GM Oil Type Master Guide.

🛠️ General Overview: Chevy/GMC 5.3L Oil Specs

GM’s 5.3L engines are used across trucks, SUVs, and vans — from daily drivers to workhorses. Their oil needs are primarily divided by generation:

• 1999–2013 models — typically use 6 quarts of 5W30 motor oil
• 2014–2022 models — often upgraded to 8 quarts and 0W20 synthetic oil

Chevy and GMC base models (Silverado, Sierra, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon, Express/Savana) are influenced by packages like Active Fuel Management (AFM), DOD (Displacement on Demand), or the presence of an oil cooler.

Pro Tip: Look at your owner’s manual or check with your VIN — newer 5.3L engines are often designed for synthetic oils and longer drain intervals.

🚙 Oil Capacity Details by Vehicle Model

✅ Chevy Avalanche (2002–2013)

• Capacity: 6 quarts (with filter)
• Recommended Oil: 5W30 (or 10W30 above 0°F)
• Cold Weather: Use 0W30 in < -20°F

✅ Chevy Silverado 1500 (1999–2021)

• Capacity:
  • 6 quarts (1999–2013)
  • 8 quarts (2014–2021)
• Oil Type:
  • 5W30 or 10W30 (1999–2013)
  • 0W20 (2014–2021)

✅ GMC Sierra 1500 (1999–2022)

• Capacity: 6 quarts (Gen III), 8 quarts (Gen V)
• Oil Type: 5W30 standard; newer models use 0W20 full synthetic

✅ GMC Yukon & Yukon XL (2000–2022)

• 2000–2014: 6 quarts, SAE 5W30
• 2015–2022: 8 quarts, 0W20 full synthetic

✅ Chevy Tahoe (2000–2022)

• Older models: 6 quarts, SAE 5W30
• 2015+: 8 quarts, 0W20 synthetic (required)

🧪 Recommended Oil Brands for 5.3L Engines

• Amazon Basics Full Synthetic 5W30
• Mobil 1 Full Synthetic 0W20
• Valvoline High Mileage 10W30

Using an oil that meets GM dexos™ specifications is crucial — especially on modern engines with AFM or direct injection.

🔄 Oil Change Interval & Best Practices

Most Chevy/GMC 5.3L engines recommend changing oil every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. If you drive in dusty environments or tow frequently, aim for 5,000-mile intervals.

🔧 Don’t forget to replace the oil filter with every oil change. OEM and WIX filters are both high-quality options.

Example: Use WIX 57060XP filter for most 5.3L trucks from 1999–2013.

📎 Bonus Resources

• LS Firing Order & Cylinder Numbers
• GM Engine VIN Decoder Tool
• Best Oil Filters for 5.3 Silverado

📌 Final Thoughts

Whether your truck has a Gen III iron-block 5.3 or a Gen V aluminum EcoTec3, knowing your oil specs ensures smooth operation and longer engine life.

• 🛢️ Use the correct oil weight — especially in cold climates
• 🧰 Change oil every 7,500 miles (or sooner if towing/off-road)
• ✔️ Stick with full synthetic or GM dexos™ certified oil

Need help locating your filter or don’t see your model? Reach out to our tech team or leave a comment below.

Written by Randy Worner — Founder of Chevy Geek, UTI Instructor, ASE Master Tech