Quick answer: the 2015–2022 Chevy Colorado 3.6L V6 takes 6.0 qt (5.7 L) of SAE 5W-30 with a filter change. The 2.5L 4-cylinder takes 5.0 qt (4.7 L): 5W-20 in the 2015–2018 manuals and 0W-20 from 2019. The 2.8L Duramax diesel takes 6.0 qt (5.6 L) of 5W-30.
| Engine | Oil capacity (with filter) | Oil type | Specification |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5L 4-cylinder | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) | 5W-20 (2015–2018), 0W-20 (2019–2022) | dexos1 |
| 3.6L V6 | 6.0 qt (5.7 L) | 5W-30 | dexos1 |
| 2.8L Duramax diesel | 6.0 qt (5.6 L) | 5W-30 | GM diesel spec (see supplement) |
The 2.5L switched to 0W-20 in 2019. Earlier manuals list 5W-20 for the 2.5L; from 2019 they list 0W-20. The V6 stays on 5W-30 in every year. The 2017 manual also prints a separate ZR2 line of 5.8 qt (5.5 L).
Oil capacity by year
| Model year | 2.5L | 3.6L V6 | 2.8L diesel |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) | 6.0 qt (5.7 L) | — |
| 2016 | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) | 6.0 qt (5.7 L) | 6.0 qt (5.6 L) |
| 2017 | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) | 6.0 qt (5.7 L) | 6.0 qt (5.6 L) |
| 2018 | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) | 6.0 qt (5.7 L) | 6.0 qt (5.6 L) |
| 2019 | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) | 6.0 qt (5.7 L) | 6.0 qt (5.6 L) |
| 2020 | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) | 6.0 qt (5.7 L) | 6.0 qt (5.6 L) |
| 2021 | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) | 6.0 qt (5.7 L) | 6.0 qt (5.6 L) |
| 2022 | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) | 6.0 qt (5.7 L) | 6.0 qt (5.6 L) |
GM lists one capacity per engine, including the oil filter. We checked the capacity table in every model-year manual on this page.
Recommended oil type
2.5L: SAE 5W-20 (2015–2018) or SAE 0W-20 (2019–2022), dexos1.
3.6L V6: SAE 5W-30 dexos1; 0W-30 below -20°F (-29°C).
2.8L Duramax diesel: SAE 5W-30; 0W-40 may be used in extreme cold (2021 Duramax 2.8L supplement).
GM requires oils that meet its dexos specification (dexos1 for gasoline engines, dexos2 or dexosD for diesels) and carry the dexos approved logo. ACDelco dexos oil is recommended. Do not add anything to the oil.
How to reset the oil life on the 2015–2022 Chevy Colorado
See also: Oil life reset by brand.
- Display the remaining oil life on the Driver Information Center (DIC).
- Press and hold the select button (or SET/CLR) for several seconds until the oil life shows 100%.
Reset only after an oil change; the system will not reset itself.
Oil change tips
- A 5-quart jug covers the 2.5L; the V6 and diesel need one more quart.
- Add a little less than the full capacity, check the dipstick, then top up.
Sources and how we checked
All capacities and oil grades on this page come from Chevrolet’s owner’s manuals, published on GM’s official manuals site (“Capacities and Specifications” and “Selecting the Right Engine Oil”):
- 2015 Colorado owner’s manual
- 2016 Colorado owner’s manual
- 2017 Colorado owner’s manual
- 2018 Colorado owner’s manual
- 2019 Colorado owner’s manual
- 2020 Colorado owner’s manual
- 2021 Colorado owner’s manual
- 2022 Colorado owner’s manual
- 2021 Duramax 2.8L diesel supplement
If your owner’s manual shows something different, follow your manual and tell us.
Last checked: October 23, 2026.
FAQ
How much oil does a 2015–2022 Colorado take?
5.0 qt (4.7 L) for the 2.5L, 6.0 qt (5.7 L) for the 3.6L V6 and 6.0 qt (5.6 L) for the 2.8L diesel, with a filter change.
What oil does a 3.6 V6 Colorado use?
SAE 5W-30 dexos1.
What oil does a 2.5L Colorado use?
5W-20 in the 2015–2018 manuals and 0W-20 from 2019.
What oil does the Duramax 2.8 use?
SAE 5W-30, 6.0 qt (5.6 L), per the diesel supplement.
How do I reset the oil life on a Colorado?
Show OIL LIFE REMAINING on the DIC and hold the select button until it reads 100%.
Newer Colorado? See the 2023–2025 Chevy Colorado oil type and capacity.