1996 GMC Safari Oil Type & Capacity: 5W-30 (5.0 quarts)
The 1996 GMC Safari takes 5W-30 motor oil — 5.0 quarts with a filter change, per the factory service manual.
Factory-spec answer
5W-30 — 5.0 quarts with filter
Oil capacity by engine
| Engine | Oil Type (viscosity) | Capacity w/ Filter | Capacity w/o Filter | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Van Cargo, AWD | API - SAE 5W-30 (Below -20Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F), 10W-30 (Above 0Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F) | 5.00 QTS. | 4.00 QTS. | — |
| Van Cargo, RWD | API - SAE 5W-30 (Below -20Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F), 10W-30 (Above 0Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F) | 5.00 QTS. | 4.00 QTS. | — |
| Van Passenger, AWD | API - SAE 5W-30 (Below -20Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F), 10W-30 (Above 0Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F) | 5.00 QTS. | 4.00 QTS. | — |
| Van Passenger, RWD | API - SAE 5W-30 (Below -20Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F), 10W-30 (Above 0Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F) | 5.00 QTS. | 4.00 QTS. | — |
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More factory specs & repair guides for your Safari
🛞 1996 GMC Safari Tire Size & Pressure →🌧️ 1996 GMC Safari Wiper Blade Sizes →💡 1996 GMC Safari Light Bulb Sizes →📖 1996 GMC Safari Factory Service Manual →All fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)Powered by factory manual data from our partner network AllOEMManuals.com.
Coolant capacity
13.5 quarts (12.77 L) — 50/50 mixture of DEX-COOL and clean water (preferably distilled)
Frequently asked questions
What type of oil does a 1996 GMC Safari take?
The 1996 GMC Safari takes 5W-30 motor oil (API - SAE 5W-30 (Below -20Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F), 10W-30 (Above 0Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F)), per the factory service manual.
What is the oil capacity of a 1996 GMC Safari?
The 1996 GMC Safari oil capacity is 5.0 quarts with a filter change, or 4.0 quarts without changing the filter.
How often should I change the oil in my 1996 GMC Safari?
Most 1996 GMC Safari owners follow a 5,000–7,500 mile interval with conventional oil, or up to 10,000 miles with full synthetic. Always check the oil life monitor if equipped, and consult your owner's manual — GMC recommends intervals based on driving conditions, not just mileage.
Can I use synthetic oil in my 1996 GMC Safari?
Yes. 5W-30 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 1996 GMC Safari. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.