2011 GMC Canyon Oil Type & Capacity

The 2011 GMC Canyon oil type depends on the engine: the 2D Pickup, 2.9 9, 4WD, Automatic takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts with filter); the 2D Pickup, 2.9 9, 4WD, Standard takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts with filter); the 2D Pickup, 2.9 9, RWD, Automatic takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts with filter); the 2D Pickup, 2.9 9, RWD, Standard takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts with filter); the 2D Pickup, 3.7 E, 4WD takes 5W-30 (6.0 quarts with filter); the 2D Pickup, 3.7 E, RWD takes 5W-30 (6.0 quarts with filter); the 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 2.9 9, 4WD, Automatic takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts with filter); the 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 2.9 9, 4WD, Standard takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts with filter); the 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 2.9 9, RWD, Automatic takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts with filter); the 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 2.9 9, RWD, Standard takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts with filter); the 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 3.7 E, 4WD takes 5W-30 (6.0 quarts with filter); the 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 3.7 E, RWD takes 5W-30 (6.0 quarts with filter); the 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 5.3 P, 4WD takes 5W-30 (6.0 quarts with filter); the 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 5.3 P, RWD takes 5W-30 (6.0 quarts with filter); the 4D Pickup, 2.9 9 takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts with filter); the 4D Pickup, 3.7 E, 4WD takes 5W-30 (6.0 quarts with filter); the 4D Pickup, 3.7 E, RWD takes 5W-30 (6.0 quarts with filter); the 4D Pickup, 5.3 P, 4WD takes 5W-30 (6.0 quarts with filter); the 4D Pickup, 5.3 P, RWD takes 5W-30 (6.0 quarts with filter), per the factory service manual.

Factory-spec answer

It depends on the engine:

Oil capacity by engine

EngineOil Type (viscosity)Capacity w/ FilterCapacity w/o FilterNotes
2D Pickup, 2.9 9, 4WD, Automatic — 2.9L EngAPI - SAE 5W-305.00 QTS.4.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
2D Pickup, 2.9 9, 4WD, Standard — 2.9L EngAPI - SAE 5W-305.00 QTS.4.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
2D Pickup, 2.9 9, RWD, Automatic — 2.9L EngAPI - SAE 5W-305.00 QTS.4.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
2D Pickup, 2.9 9, RWD, Standard — 2.9L EngAPI - SAE 5W-305.00 QTS.4.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
2D Pickup, 3.7 E, 4WD — 3.7L EngAPI - SAE 5W-306.00 QTS.5.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
2D Pickup, 3.7 E, RWD — 3.7L EngAPI - SAE 5W-306.00 QTS.5.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
4D Pickup Extra Cab, 2.9 9, 4WD, Automatic — 2.9L EngAPI - SAE 5W-305.00 QTS.4.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
4D Pickup Extra Cab, 2.9 9, 4WD, Standard — 2.9L EngAPI - SAE 5W-305.00 QTS.4.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
4D Pickup Extra Cab, 2.9 9, RWD, Automatic — 2.9L EngAPI - SAE 5W-305.00 QTS.4.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
4D Pickup Extra Cab, 2.9 9, RWD, Standard — 2.9L EngAPI - SAE 5W-305.00 QTS.4.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
4D Pickup Extra Cab, 3.7 E, 4WD — 3.7L EngAPI - SAE 5W-306.00 QTS.5.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
4D Pickup Extra Cab, 3.7 E, RWD — 3.7L EngAPI - SAE 5W-306.00 QTS.5.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
4D Pickup Extra Cab, 5.3 P, 4WD — 5.3L EngAPI - SAE 5W-306.00 QTS.5.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
4D Pickup Extra Cab, 5.3 P, RWD — 5.3L EngAPI - SAE 5W-306.00 QTS.5.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
4D Pickup, 2.9 9 — 2.9L EngAPI - SAE 5W-305.00 QTS.4.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
4D Pickup, 3.7 E, 4WD — 3.7L EngAPI - SAE 5W-306.00 QTS.5.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
4D Pickup, 3.7 E, RWD — 3.7L EngAPI - SAE 5W-306.00 QTS.5.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
4D Pickup, 5.3 P, 4WD — 5.3L EngAPI - SAE 5W-306.00 QTS.5.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.
4D Pickup, 5.3 P, RWD — 5.3L EngAPI - SAE 5W-306.00 QTS.5.50 QTS.The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos1 specification. Oils meeting this specification can be identified with the dexos certification mark. Look for and use only an engine oil that displays the dexos certification mark of the proper viscosity grade. SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50. Cold Temperature Operation: In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -29Deg. C (-20Deg. F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos.

Buy the right oil

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More specs & repair guides for your Canyon

2011 GMC Canyon factory service manualAll fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)

Powered by factory manual data from our partner site AllOEMManuals.com.

Coolant capacity

10.4 quarts (9.84 L) — 50/50 mixture of DEX-COOL and clean, drinkable water. All capacities are approximate. When adding, be sure to fill to the approximate level. Recheck the fluid level after filling.

Frequently asked questions

What type of oil does a 2011 GMC Canyon take?

It depends on the engine: 2D Pickup, 2.9 9, 4WD, Automatic uses 5W-30; 2D Pickup, 2.9 9, 4WD, Standard uses 5W-30; 2D Pickup, 2.9 9, RWD, Automatic uses 5W-30; 2D Pickup, 2.9 9, RWD, Standard uses 5W-30; 2D Pickup, 3.7 E, 4WD uses 5W-30; 2D Pickup, 3.7 E, RWD uses 5W-30; 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 2.9 9, 4WD, Automatic uses 5W-30; 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 2.9 9, 4WD, Standard uses 5W-30; 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 2.9 9, RWD, Automatic uses 5W-30; 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 2.9 9, RWD, Standard uses 5W-30; 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 3.7 E, 4WD uses 5W-30; 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 3.7 E, RWD uses 5W-30; 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 5.3 P, 4WD uses 5W-30; 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 5.3 P, RWD uses 5W-30; 4D Pickup, 2.9 9 uses 5W-30; 4D Pickup, 3.7 E, 4WD uses 5W-30; 4D Pickup, 3.7 E, RWD uses 5W-30; 4D Pickup, 5.3 P, 4WD uses 5W-30; 4D Pickup, 5.3 P, RWD uses 5W-30.

How much oil does a 2011 GMC Canyon take?

Capacity depends on the engine: 2D Pickup, 2.9 9, 4WD, Automatic holds 5.0 quarts with filter; 2D Pickup, 2.9 9, 4WD, Standard holds 5.0 quarts with filter; 2D Pickup, 2.9 9, RWD, Automatic holds 5.0 quarts with filter; 2D Pickup, 2.9 9, RWD, Standard holds 5.0 quarts with filter; 2D Pickup, 3.7 E, 4WD holds 6.0 quarts with filter; 2D Pickup, 3.7 E, RWD holds 6.0 quarts with filter; 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 2.9 9, 4WD, Automatic holds 5.0 quarts with filter; 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 2.9 9, 4WD, Standard holds 5.0 quarts with filter; 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 2.9 9, RWD, Automatic holds 5.0 quarts with filter; 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 2.9 9, RWD, Standard holds 5.0 quarts with filter; 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 3.7 E, 4WD holds 6.0 quarts with filter; 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 3.7 E, RWD holds 6.0 quarts with filter; 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 5.3 P, 4WD holds 6.0 quarts with filter; 4D Pickup Extra Cab, 5.3 P, RWD holds 6.0 quarts with filter; 4D Pickup, 2.9 9 holds 5.0 quarts with filter; 4D Pickup, 3.7 E, 4WD holds 6.0 quarts with filter; 4D Pickup, 3.7 E, RWD holds 6.0 quarts with filter; 4D Pickup, 5.3 P, 4WD holds 6.0 quarts with filter; 4D Pickup, 5.3 P, RWD holds 6.0 quarts with filter.

Can I use synthetic oil in my 2011 GMC Canyon?

Yes. 5W-30 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 2011 GMC Canyon. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.

Other GMC Canyon years

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