The correct oil for a 2018 GMC Yukon is Dexos1 Gen 2 certified 0W-20 synthetic engine oil, used for both the 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines.
In 2018 the Yukon offered two gasoline V8 options—the 5.3L and the 6.2L. GM specifies Dexos1 Gen 2 with a 0W-20 viscosity for these engines. Use a full synthetic or a high-quality synthetic-blend that carries the Dexos1 Gen 2 certification, and verify the exact requirements in your owner’s manual or with a GM dealer to account for climate and driving conditions.
Oil Type and Viscosity for the 2018 Yukon
The official GM specification for the 2018 Yukon’s two V8 engines is Dexos1 Gen 2 with a viscosity of 0W-20. This specification is designed to meet GM’s performance standards for wear protection, fuel efficiency, and cold-start protection. Always choose an oil labeled Dexos1 Gen 2 and 0W-20 to ensure compatibility with the engine and warranty requirements.
Why Dexos1 Gen 2 0W-20 matters
Dexos1 Gen 2 is GM’s certification standard for modern gasoline engines. Oils meeting this standard help protect engine parts, maintain cleanliness, and support optimal fuel economy. The 0W-20 viscosity is selected to balance cold-start performance with everyday driving across a wide range of climates common to Yukon owners.
Oil Capacity and Change Intervals
Oil capacity varies by engine. The 5.3L V8 typically uses around 8 quarts of oil with the filter, while the 6.2L V8 uses a bit more.
- 5.3L V8: approximately 7.5–8.0 quarts (with filter).
- 6.2L V8: approximately 8.0–8.5 quarts (with filter).
Oil-change intervals are guided by GM’s Oil Life System. With Dexos1 Gen 2 0W-20, you’ll commonly see recommended intervals in the ~7,500–10,000 mile range under normal driving, with more frequent changes under severe conditions (towed loads, extreme temperatures, heavy stop-and-go driving). Always follow the vehicle’s oil-life monitor and the owner’s manual for exact timings.
DIY Oil Change: Steps and Tips
If you’re planning to change the oil yourself, here are the essentials to keep in mind. Gather the right materials and follow these basic steps for a proper service.
- Park on level ground, engage the parking brake, and allow the engine to cool before draining oil.
- Place a drain pan underneath the oil pan, remove the drain plug, and let the old oil drain completely.
- Remove and replace the oil filter with a Dexos1 Gen 2–certified filter.
- Install the drain plug with the correct torque specification and refill with the recommended Dexos1 Gen 2 0W-20 oil to the appropriate capacity for your engine.
- Start the engine, check for leaks, and run through a brief idle to circulate the new oil. Recheck the oil level and top off if needed.
- Reset the oil-life monitor if your vehicle requires a manual reset.
Note: If you’re not comfortable performing an oil change yourself, have a certified technician perform the service to ensure correct filter installation, torque, and oil specification.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Avoid these mistakes that can compromise engine protection or warranty coverage.
- Using oil that is not Dexos1 Gen 2 certified or using the wrong viscosity (not 0W-20) can impact performance and may affect warranty eligibility.
- Overfilling the engine with oil can cause foaming and increased pressure, potentially damaging seals and components.
- Delaying oil changes beyond the recommended interval can lead to sludge buildup and accelerated wear.
Summary
For a 2018 GMC Yukon, the recommended oil is Dexos1 Gen 2 0W-20 synthetic, suitable for both the 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines. Follow GM’s Oil Life System for intervals, use a Dexos1 Gen 2–certified oil and appropriate filter, and consult the owner’s manual or a dealership to confirm exact capacities and maintenance timing. Staying with the approved specification protects engine performance, efficiency, and warranty coverage.