The short answer: Dexos1 Gen 2 5W-30 motor oil, in either full synthetic or synthetic-blend form.
For the 2013 Sierra 1500, GM generally requires a 5W-30 oil that meets the Dexos1 Gen 2 specification for all standard engines. The exact viscosity and spec can vary by engine and climate, so verify with the owner’s manual or the under-hood label. Oils that carry the Dexos1 Gen 2 certification are widely available from major brands and can be synthetic or synthetic blend.
Engine options and oil requirements
Note that the Sierra 1500 offered multiple engines in 2013. Regardless of engine, GM’s baseline recommendation is Dexos1 Gen 2 5W-30. The following outlines the common expectations by engine family.
- 4.3L V6: Dexos1 Gen 2 approved 5W-30 motor oil (full synthetic or synthetic blend).
- 5.3L V8: Dexos1 Gen 2 approved 5W-30 motor oil (full synthetic or synthetic blend).
- 6.2L V8: Dexos1 Gen 2 approved 5W-30 motor oil (full synthetic or synthetic blend).
These guidelines help ensure proper lubrication, emissions control, and engine longevity. Always confirm the exact spec for your VIN via the owner’s manual or GM’s resources, as regional differences or substitutions can exist.
Tips for buying and applying oil
Before you buy or pour, a few practical notes to help you choose the right oil and avoid mistakes.
- Look for a Dexos1 Gen 2 certification on the oil bottle or product description.
- Choose viscosity 5W-30 for most conditions; synthetic or synthetic blend is acceptable.
- Use a new oil filter and perform the oil change per the manual’s guidance.
- If you drive in extreme temperatures or have a climate that may warrant different specifications, consult the owner's manual for any viscosity recommendations beyond 5W-30.
In short, following Dexos1 Gen 2 5W-30 with a reputable brand is a safe bet for most 2013 Sierra 1500s.
How to verify the exact spec for your truck
Given the model year and multiple engine options, the best approach is to confirm the exact oil specification for your vehicle. The steps below guide you to the definitive source of truth for your VIN.
- Check the owner’s manual – look under "Lubrication" or "Specifications" for the exact oil type and viscosity.
- Inspect the under-hood oil-fill cap – many GM engines indicate the Dexos specification and viscosity there.
- Check the service information label on the driver’s door jamb or inside the glove box for oil grade or capacity details.
- Contact a GM dealer or use the GM Owner Center with your VIN to pull the exact requirement for your truck.
These steps ensure you’re using the precise oil specification for your vehicle, protecting warranty and performance.
Summary
The 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 typically uses Dexos1 Gen 2 5W-30 motor oil, compatible with full synthetic or synthetic-blend formulations. Always verify the exact specification for your engine and climate via the owner’s manual or GM resources, and choose a brand that clearly meets Dexos1 Gen 2. If in doubt, a reputable synthetic 5W-30 that's Dexos1 Gen 2 certified is a reliable choice.
Should I use synthetic oil in my GMC Sierra?
There are several reasons why we recommend ACDelco Dexos1 full synthetic oil for modern GMC vehicles like your Sierra 1500. See the four main benefits you'll get: Resists oxidation better than conventional oils, allowing the oil to last longer. Excellent low-temperature flow for better cold starts in frigid weather.
What kind of oil does a 2013 GMC Sierra 5.3 take?
SAE 5W-30
Earlier Generation (2007–2013, “GMT900”)
For most gasoline engines (4.3L/5.3L/6.0L/6.2L), the period guidance specifies SAE 5W-30 and the then-current GM approval (later years overlapped with the early dexos1 era). Always verify with your specific model year manual.
How many quarts of oil does a 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 use?
The amount of oil your pickup can hold depends on its engine. Here are the general GMC Sierra 1500 oil capacities, but again, you will want to double-check these specs in your owner's manual: 2.7L Turbo – 6 quarts. 5.3L V8 – 8 quarts.
What kind of oil goes in a 2013 GMC Sierra 1500?
For a gasoline engine, we recommend SAE 5W-30 Dexos1 full synthetic oil. If you want protection for really low temperatures, consider 0W-30 oil.