The 2018 Impala with the 3.6-liter V6 typically requires five quarts of engine oil for a standard oil change, including a new filter. This amount is generally recommended when using Dexos1 Gen 2 certified oil, but always verify with your owner's manual or dealer for your specific vehicle and climate.
Engine capacity overview
The 3.6-liter V6 powering the 2018 Impala is part of GM’s modern small-displacement V6 family. For a routine oil change that includes replacing the filter, the official capacity is widely cited as 5.0 quarts. Always confirm the exact requirement for your car, as production runs and trim variations can influence the specification slightly.
If you're planning an oil change, here are the key steps to ensure you fill the correct amount.
- Use Dexos1 Gen 2 certified engine oil, with the viscosity recommended in your manual (GM often specifies 0W-20 or another viscosity suitable for your climate).
- Replace the oil filter with a new one during the change.
- Add five quarts of oil initially, using a funnel to avoid spills.
- Start the engine, let it run briefly, then turn it off and wait a few minutes before rechecking the dipstick and topping off if necessary.
Following these steps helps ensure you reach the correct oil level without overfilling or underfilling.
Why the exact amount matters
Using the correct quantity matters for proper lubrication, engine cooling, and oil pressure. Overfilling can cause foaming and leaks, while underfilling can leave the engine without sufficient lubrication. The 5.0-quart figure includes the oil that fills the filter housing, so precise measurement after the change is important.
Practical notes
Always refer to the owner’s manual or a Chevrolet service advisor for the exact oil type and capacity for your specific vehicle, as there can be small variations by production batch or regional specifications. For the 2018 Impala with the 3.6L V6, the standard guidance is 5.0 quarts of oil with a new filter, using Dexos1 Gen 2 certified oil.
Summary
In short, plan on about five quarts of engine oil (with a new filter) for a 2018 Chevy Impala equipped with the 3.6L V6. Use Dexos1 Gen 2 certified oil and verify the final level with the dipstick after the engine has run and settled.