Quick answer: the 2016–2019 Chevy Cruze 1.4L turbo takes 4.2 qt (4.0 L) of oil with a filter change: SAE 5W-30 in the 2016–2018 manuals and SAE 0W-20 in the 2019 manual. The 1.6L diesel (2017–2019) takes 5.3 qt (5.0 L) of 5W-30.
| Engine | Oil capacity (with filter) | Oil type | Specification |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4L turbo (LE2), 2016–2018 | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) | 5W-30 | dexos1 |
| 1.4L turbo (LE2), 2019 | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) | 0W-20 | dexos1 |
| 1.6L diesel (LH7), 2017–2019 | 5.3 qt (5.0 L) | 5W-30 | dexos2 |
The 2019 manual switches the gas engine to 0W-20. Same 1.4L turbo and same 4.2 qt capacity, but the last-year manual lists SAE 0W-20 instead of 5W-30. The diesel stays on 5W-30 (0W-40 in extreme cold).
Oil capacity by year
| Model year | 1.4L turbo | Oil | 1.6L diesel |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) | 5W-30 | — |
| 2017 | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) | 5W-30 | 5.3 qt (5.0 L) |
| 2018 | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) | 5W-30 | 5.3 qt (5.0 L) |
| 2019 | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) | 0W-20 | 5.3 qt (5.0 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
1.4L turbo: SAE 5W-30 dexos1 (2016–2018); SAE 0W-20 (2019).
1.6L diesel: SAE 5W-30 meeting dexos2; 0W-40 below -20°F (-29°C).
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 2016–2019 Chevy Cruze
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 1.4L; the diesel needs a 5-quart jug plus a little more.
- 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”):
- 2016 Cruze owner’s manual
- 2017 Cruze owner’s manual
- 2018 Cruze owner’s manual
- 2019 Cruze owner’s manual
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 2016–2019 Cruze take?
4.2 qt (4.0 L) for the 1.4L turbo and 5.3 qt (5.0 L) for the 1.6L diesel.
What oil does a 2017 Cruze use?
SAE 5W-30 dexos1 for the 1.4L turbo.
What oil does a 2019 Cruze use?
The 2019 manual lists SAE 0W-20 for the 1.4L turbo.
What oil does the Cruze diesel use?
SAE 5W-30 dexos2, 5.3 qt (5.0 L).
How do I reset the oil life on a Cruze?
Show the remaining oil life on the DIC and hold the select button until it reads 100%.
Older Cruze? See the 2011–2015 Chevy Cruze oil type and capacity.