2016 Chevrolet Equinox Oil Type & Capacity

The 2016 Chevrolet Equinox oil type depends on the engine: the 2.4L takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts qt with filter); the 3.6L takes 5W-30 (6.0 quarts qt with filter); the L, Gas takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts qt with filter); the L, Gas/Ethanol takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts qt with filter); the LS, AWD, Gas takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts qt with filter); the LS, AWD, Gas/Ethanol takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts qt with filter); the LS, FWD, Gas takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts qt with filter); the LS, FWD, Gas/Ethanol takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts qt with filter), per the factory service manual.

Factory-spec answer

It depends on the engine:

2.4L: 5W-30, 5.0 quarts with filter
2.4L: 5W-30, 5.0 quarts with filter
2.4L: 5W-30, 5.0 quarts with filter
2.4L: 5W-30, 5.0 quarts with filter
2.4L: 5W-30, 5.0 quarts with filter
2.4L: 5W-30, 5.0 quarts with filter
2.4L: 5W-30, 5.0 quarts with filter
2.4L: 5W-30, 5.0 quarts with filter
3.6L: 5W-30, 6.0 quarts with filter
3.6L: 5W-30, 6.0 quarts with filter
L, Gas: 5W-30, 5.0 quarts with filter
L, Gas/Ethanol: 5W-30, 5.0 quarts with filter
LS, AWD, Gas: 5W-30, 5.0 quarts with filter
LS, AWD, Gas/Ethanol: 5W-30, 5.0 quarts with filter
LS, FWD, Gas: 5W-30, 5.0 quarts with filter
LS, FWD, Gas/Ethanol: 5W-30, 5.0 quarts with filter

Oil capacity by engine

Engine	Oil Type (viscosity)	Capacity w/ Filter	Capacity w/o Filter	Notes
2.4L — LT, 2.4L Eng VIN K, AWD, Gas, 2.4L Eng	API - SAE 5W-30	5.00 QTS.	—	Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specification, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
2.4L — LT, 2.4L Eng VIN K, AWD, Gas/Ethanol, 2.4L Eng	API - SAE 5W-30	5.00 QTS.	—	Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specification, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
2.4L — LT, 2.4L Eng VIN K, FWD, Gas, 2.4L Eng	API - SAE 5W-30	5.00 QTS.	—	Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specification, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
2.4L — LT, 2.4L Eng VIN K, FWD, Gas/Ethanol, 2.4L Eng	API - SAE 5W-30	5.00 QTS.	—	Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specification, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
2.4L — LTZ, 2.4L Eng VIN K, AWD, Gas, 2.4L Eng	API - SAE 5W-30	5.00 QTS.	—	Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specification, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
2.4L — LTZ, 2.4L Eng VIN K, AWD, Gas/Ethanol, 2.4L Eng	API - SAE 5W-30	5.00 QTS.	—	Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specification, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
2.4L — LTZ, 2.4L Eng VIN K, FWD, Gas/Ethanol, 2.4L Eng	API - SAE 5W-30	5.00 QTS.	—	Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specification, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
2.4L — LTZ, 2.4L Eng VIN K, FWD, Gas, 2.4L Eng	API - SAE 5W-30	5.00 QTS.	—	Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specification, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
3.6L — LT, 3.6L Eng VIN 3, 3.6L Eng	API - SAE 5W-30	6.00 QTS.	—	Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specification, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
3.6L — LTZ, 3.6L Eng VIN 3, 3.6L Eng	API - SAE 5W-30	6.00 QTS.	—	Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specification, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
L, Gas — 2.4L Eng	API - SAE 5W-30	5.00 QTS.	—	Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specification, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
L, Gas/Ethanol — 2.4L Eng	API - SAE 5W-30	5.00 QTS.	—	Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specification, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
LS, AWD, Gas — 2.4L Eng	API - SAE 5W-30	5.00 QTS.	—	Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specification, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
LS, AWD, Gas/Ethanol — 2.4L Eng	API - SAE 5W-30	5.00 QTS.	—	Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specification, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
LS, FWD, Gas — 2.4L Eng	API - SAE 5W-30	5.00 QTS.	—	Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specification, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
LS, FWD, Gas/Ethanol — 2.4L Eng	API - SAE 5W-30	5.00 QTS.	—	Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specification, or equivalent, of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is recommended. If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), an SAE 0W-30 oil may be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.

📦 DIY Oil Change Kit Builder

Complete Oil Change Bundle for 2016 Chevrolet Equinox

Everything you need delivered in one order. Pre-matched to your factory spec (5W-30, 5.0 quarts).

Preferred Oil Brand:

Mobil 1 5W-30 Full Synthetic OilExact Spec

5-Quart Jug (5.0 quarts needed)

$27.97Item Link ↗

2016 Chevrolet Equinox Premium Synthetic Oil FilterExact Fit

OEM-fitment high-efficiency synthetic filter media (2.4L)

$11.99Item Link ↗

Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Gaskets (5-Pack)Recommended

Direct-fit replacement seal — prevents oil leaks after tightening

$6.99Item Link ↗

15-Quart Low-Profile Drain Pan with Pour SpoutTool

Catch-all basin with anti-splash lip & secure transport cap

$18.99Item Link ↗

RhinoRamps 12,000 lb Drive-Up Vehicle RampsTool

Safe driveway clearance for quick vehicle underbody access

$49.99Item Link ↗

Heavy-Duty Black Nitrile Gloves (Box of 100)PPE

6-mil commercial-grade chemical & oil resistant mechanics gloves

$14.99Item Link ↗

Multi-Angle Spill-Proof Oil Funnel SetTool

Wide-mouth funnel with flexible neck to eliminate engine bay spills

$8.99Item Link ↗

Scott Blue Shop Towels (6-Pack)Supplies

Ultra-absorbent lint-free automotive towels for clean-up

$12.99Item Link ↗

Selected Items: 3 items

$46.95 est. total

🛒Buy Complete DIY Kit on Amazon (~$46.95) →

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices shown are real-time retail estimates.

Buy the right oil & filter for your Equinox

🛒 Buy 5W-30 Full Synthetic Oil (5.0 quarts needed) on Amazon

Popular Full Synthetic Brands (5W-30):

Mobil 1 →Valvoline Advanced →Pennzoil Platinum →Castrol EDGE →

🔧 2016 Chevrolet Equinox Oil Filter on Amazon Drain plug crush washer on Amazon

+ 15 Qt Drain Pan + Shop Towels (6 pack)+ Nitrile Gloves (100 pk)

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases made through these links.

More factory specs & repair guides for your Equinox

🛞 2016 Chevrolet Equinox Tire Size & Pressure →🌧️ 2016 Chevrolet Equinox Wiper Blade Sizes →💡 2016 Chevrolet Equinox Light Bulb Sizes →📖 2016 Chevrolet Equinox Factory Service Manual →All fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)

Coolant capacity

8.2 quarts (7.76 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 2016 Chevrolet Equinox take?

It depends on the engine: 2.4L uses 5W-30; 3.6L uses 5W-30; L, Gas uses 5W-30; L, Gas/Ethanol uses 5W-30; LS, AWD, Gas uses 5W-30; LS, AWD, Gas/Ethanol uses 5W-30; LS, FWD, Gas uses 5W-30; LS, FWD, Gas/Ethanol uses 5W-30.

What is the oil capacity of a 2016 Chevrolet Equinox?

Oil capacity depends on the engine: 2.4L holds 5.0 quarts with filter; 3.6L holds 6.0 quarts with filter; L, Gas holds 5.0 quarts with filter; L, Gas/Ethanol holds 5.0 quarts with filter; LS, AWD, Gas holds 5.0 quarts with filter; LS, AWD, Gas/Ethanol holds 5.0 quarts with filter; LS, FWD, Gas holds 5.0 quarts with filter; LS, FWD, Gas/Ethanol holds 5.0 quarts with filter.

How often should I change the oil in my 2016 Chevrolet Equinox?

Most 2016 Chevrolet Equinox 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 — Chevrolet recommends intervals based on driving conditions, not just mileage.

Can I use synthetic oil in my 2016 Chevrolet Equinox?

Yes. 5W-30 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.