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How Much Oil Does a 6.6 Duramax Take? (Explained)

Duramax is a reliable engine known for its durability and great performance for years. The engines continue to be launched with new updated parts and corrected designs with newer models.

If you are new to using the Duramax engine, you may have come across this common query as to how much oil a 6.6 Duramax can take.

How much oil does a 6.6 Duramax take?

A 6.6 Duramax can take 10 quarts of oil. Without the filter being replaced, a 6.6 Duramax can take 9.2 quarts of engine oil. You can fill the oil using the oil fill tube located at the front. Make sure to check the level with an oil level indicator located in front of the fuel filter housing.

There are different models available in the market for 6.6 Duramax. Let’s get to know if there is any change seen in the intake of oil for those.

2005 6.6 Duramax:

2005 6.6 Duramax is known as the LLY. The 2nd generation LLY was better and more reliable compared to the previous models.

It was produced from 2004 to 2006. 2005 6.6 Duramax diesel could hold 10 quarts of oil with a filter and produce 310 horsepower.

2007 6.6 Duramax:

LLY Duramax got replaced by the 2007 model also known as the LBZ Duramax. It continues to maintain the power and torque ratings with upgraded emission control. It was first launched in 2007, January.

Later the same year, Duramax LMM was introduced with a new body style. 2007 6.6 Duramax can hold 10 quarts of oil with a filter and produce 300-320 horsepower.

2013 6.6 Duramax:

First introduced in 2011, Duramax LML is the successor of Duramax LMM with more horsepower, improved torque, and better emission control.

With the emission regulations getting tightened, the company decided to take emission into more serious consideration and came up with Duramax LML with a selective catalyst reduction system.

2014 6.6 Duramax:

The LML Duramax started its journey in 2011 and continued throughout 2014 till 2016. This turbo-diesel engine was planned for heavy-duty large trucks and was designed to depend on an external fuel source.

Also, it was the first-ever 6.6 Duramax to be capable of running on a B20 blend of biodiesel (80% conventional diesel, 20% biodiesel.)

2015 6.6 Duramax:

In 2015, the same LML engine continued to rule with its amazing performance. The major change it went through this year was an exterior change. More spaces were allotted for the riders to go in and come out of the truck easily.

A new cabin added extra legroom for the passengers in the back. It could hold 10 quarts or 9.5 liters of oil.

2016 6.6 Duramax:

LML stayed for a long time and was discontinued after 2016. LML was the first to come up with a ‘9th injector’ fuel system and 397 horsepower. Duramax LGH was also in action till this year and got discontinued in 2017.

LGH is a detuned version of LML and was a part of the turbo diesel engine family with a V8 configuration.

2018 6.6 Duramax:

The 2018 L5P Duramax came with an exceptional torque of 910lb/ft. It exceeded all other previous models in acceleration with 435 horsepower. Many consider it the most reliable post emission 6.6 Duramax engine.

2019 6.6 Duramax:

L5P started its journey in 2017 and is still ongoing as the latest 6.6 Duramax V8 engine. The incredible turbo diesel produces 445 horsepower beating all the previous records set by the other models. It can take 10 quarts of oil with a filter.

How much oil should a Duramax use?

The amount of engine oil used by a Duramax depends on the amount of fuel used. If the engine works harder, it will use more oil and as well as more fuel. The amount differs with the types of engines.

Duramax engines that came in between 2007 to 2016 (LMM, LML, LGH) use 1.25 quarts of oil within 100 gallons of fuel used. The older models (LBZ, LB7, LLY) use 1 quart of oil within 100 gallons of fuel used.

How often to change the oil in 6.6 Duramax?

The main function of engine oil is to keep contaminants away from the engine. You need to change the oil before it reaches the saturation point where it can’t protect the engine anymore by holding off the contaminants.

In general, you should change the oil in 6.6 Duramax at least once every year or before it completes 7500 miles.

You can check the manufacturer’s guide to find out the right time to change the oil. If the manufacturer recommends replacing the oil in a greater interval of mileage, you should follow that.

What oil does a 6.6 Duramax take?

There are many options to choose the oil for 6.6 Duramax. Let’s get to know them.

Amsoil heavy-duty diesel engine oil 15W-40:

This oil was originally planned for the engines that came before 2007. It may not work that well for the newer models. The oil shows better acid control from emission. Also, it works well for both off and on-road vehicles.

Mobil Delvac 1300 Super diesel engine oil 15W-40:

This is budget-friendly diesel oil. It has a thicker viscosity that shows great resistance. Though the SAE rating is not that good for a cold start, this conventional oil helps prolong engine life.

Royal purple diesel engine oil 15W-40:

This oil works best for high mileage Duramax. It helps to increase wear protection and fuel efficiency. This oil works to keep the older engines very clean. It performs great for both hot flow and cold start.

Shell Rotella T6 synthetic engine oil 5W-40:

This oil has gained immense popularity for its contribution to the fuel economy. It is a combination of advanced additives and synthetic oil that works well for a 6.6 Duramax.

Final Thoughts

The standard measurement of oil that Duramax 6.6 takes is 10 quarts with a filter. The oil needs to be filled from the front with the oil fill tube. It is recommended to check the oil level using the oil level indicator. The amount of oil that a Duramax uses depends on the amount of fuel used.