The oil filter on the 2021 GMC Canyon is located on the underside of the engine block near the front, and is accessible from underneath after removing the front undertray. Gasoline engines use a conventional spin‑on filter, while the available 2.8L Duramax diesel uses a cartridge-style filter housed in a small reservoir at the front of the engine.
Because the Canyon offered multiple powertrains in 2021—the 2.5L and 3.6L gasoline engines, plus the 2.8L Duramax diesel—the exact filter setup and access can vary. This guide breaks down where to look for each configuration and how to reach the filter safely for a routine change.
Gasoline engines: 2.5L I4 and 3.6L V6
When dealing with the gasoline engines, the filter sits low in the engine bay on the bottom side of the block, toward the front. It is typically a conventional spin‑on filter that threads onto the engine. Access generally requires working under the vehicle and, in some trims, removing the front undertray or skid plate to reach the filter.
What to look for and how to proceed:
- Park on level ground, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels.
- With a flashlight, slide under the front of the Canyon to locate the oil filter assembly on the lower side of the engine block (usually toward the passenger side, near the front).
- Use a suitable filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter, directing the drained oil into a pan.
- Wipe the mounting surface, install a new filter by hand until snug, then tighten per the manufacturer’s specification.
- Replace the undertray if removed and check for leaks after refilling oil to the correct level.
In gasoline variants, the spin‑on filter is the common arrangement, and accessibility improves with the front undertray removed. Always verify the exact location before loosening the filter to avoid spills or cross‑threading.
Diesel engine: 2.8L Duramax
The 2.8L Duramax diesel uses a cartridge‑style filter inside a housing mounted on the front side of the engine. This setup is typically accessed from underneath the vehicle, and the cartridge is replaced rather than a traditional spin‑on element.
Steps to locate and service the Duramax filter:
- Secure the vehicle and, if present, remove the front undertray to expose the engine’s lower front area.
- Find the oil filter housing on the front side of the engine; it will have a cap or access plug for removing and replacing the cartridge.
- Carefully uncap or unbolt the housing to remove the old cartridge, catching any residual oil in a pan.
- Install a new cartridge, reseal the housing, and reattach the cap as required by the service guidelines.
- Reinstall the housing cap, refill the engine with the proper oil, and start the engine to check for leaks.
For the Duramax, remember that you’re dealing with a cartridge system inside a housing rather than a simple spin‑on filter. Keep the correct replacement cartridge and oil type on hand for your specific model year and configuration.
Summary
Across the 2021 GMC Canyon lineup, oil‑filter placement depends on the powertrain. Gasoline models (2.5L I4 and 3.6L V6) generally use a bottom, front‑side spin‑on filter accessed from underneath, often after removing the undertray. The 2.8L Duramax diesel employs a cartridge filter housed at the front of the engine, also accessible from below. Always consult the owner’s manual or a trusted repair guide for the exact location, torque specs, and service intervals for your specific engine and trim. Regular inspection and correct handling will keep oil changes clean and effective.
Where is the engine oil filter located?
The oil filter is usually located beside the oil pan or under the hood of your vehicle near the engine. Place the collection pan under the filter. You can use a filter wrench to help remove.
Where is the oil filter on a 2021 Colorado V6?
Down there see that that's where I removed the filter. From so that is right by the master cylinder uh battery location right next to the engine. This is the old one this is how it comes out.
Where is the oil filter in a GMC Canyon?
Um with a filter element in it and you reuse the housing unlike. The uh the metal cans that have been in vogue for I don't know the last 30 years or.
How many quarts of oil does a 2021 GMC Canyon take?
6 quarts
Engine Oil
Capacity: 6 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level.