For the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox with the 1.6L 4-cylinder Diesel Turbo engine (Engine Code [U] LH7 U), the oil capacity is 5.3 quarts with a filter change. The recommended viscosity for all temperatures is 5W-30, though 0W-40 is suggested for temperatures below -29°C. AMSOIL recommends using AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic Diesel Oil (DP530QT-EA) paired with an AMSOIL Oil Filter (EA15K35-EA) for optimal protection.
What oil does a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox 1.6L Diesel take?
The 2018 Chevrolet Equinox 1.6L diesel engine requires specific viscosity grades to ensure proper lubrication and protection of emissions components. The AMSOIL lookup lists the following specifications for this application:
AMSOIL product recommendations
Based on the AMSOIL lookup data, the following products are recommended for your 2018 Chevrolet Equinox 1.6L Diesel:
| Component | Product Name | Part Number |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil | AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic Diesel Oil | DP530QT-EA |
| Oil Filter | AMSOIL Oil Filter | EA15K35-EA |
| Oil Filter (Alt) | WIX Oil Filter | WL10331-EA |
| Coolant | AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant | ANTPC1G-EA |
| Coolant (Alt) | AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant | ANT1G-EA |
| Automatic Transmission | AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic ATF | ATLPK-EA |
| Automatic Transmission (Alt) | AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic ATF | OTLQT-EA |
| Transfer Case | AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube | SVGPK-EA |
Engine Oil Viscosity & Grade
| Condition | Viscosity |
|---|---|
| All Temperatures | 5W-30 |
| Below -29°C | 0W-40 |
AMSOIL lookup oil grade: SEOA5
Engine Oil Capacity
| Description | Capacity |
|---|---|
| With Filter Change | 5.3 quarts |
Note: After refill, always check the oil level.
Oil Drain Plug Torque
| Component | Torque Specification |
|---|---|
| Oil Drain Plug | 18 ft/lbs |
OEM Note: Vehicles equipped with Diesel engines that originally used GM Dexos2 may use a GM Dexos D licensed engine oil of the appropriate viscosity grade.
What are the filter requirements for this diesel engine?
Using high-quality filtration is critical for small-displacement diesel engines to prevent wear from contaminants. The AMSOIL lookup provides two primary options:
AMSOIL Oil Filter Options
| Product Name | Part Number |
|---|---|
| AMSOIL Oil Filter | EA15K35-EA |
Filter Performance: Provides 99 percent filtering efficiency at 20 microns (in accordance with ISO SO 4548-12) and offers greater capacity for small, wear-causing contaminants.
WIX Oil Filter Option
| Product Name | Part Number |
|---|---|
| WIX Oil Filter | WL10331-EA |
Note: Premium media offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer (OEM)-branded filters and offers OEM drain intervals.
Automatic Transmission & Transfer Case Specifications
The 2018 Equinox with the 6T45 transmission requires specific fluid capacities for both initial fills and total system refills.
Transmission Fluid Capacities (6T45)
| Fill Type | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Initial Fill | 4.2 quarts (Actual capacity between 4.0-6.0 liters) |
| Total Fill | 9 quarts |
Transfer Case Lubricant (AAM SL136)
| Component | Capacity / Specification |
|---|---|
| AAM Capacity | 1.7 pints |
| Fill Level Note | Correct fill level is 11 mm (0.43 inches) below the fill plug hole |
| Drain Plug Torque | 30 ft/lbs |
| Fill Plug Torque | 30 ft/lbs |
Note: Replace drain plug with a new one after each removal.
Coolant Specifications
Maintaining the cooling system is vital for diesel engine longevity. The capacity for this vehicle is 7.9 quarts.
| Product Type | Formulation Note |
|---|---|
| AMSOIL Passenger Car/Light Truck | Ethylene glycol 50/50 pre-mix formulation |
| AMSOIL Propylene Glycol | Concentrated – requires mixing with distilled or high-quality water |
Common diesel oil-related concerns and how AMSOIL products may help
Diesel engines face unique operating stresses. Below is a summary of potential concerns and how specific AMSOIL products can support engine health.
| Concern | Why it matters | AMSOIL Product | How it may help | Important Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turbocharger Wear | High speeds and heat can stress turbo components. | DP530QT-EA | Retains viscosity for added protection. | Diagnosis/repair may be required for existing damage. |
| Contaminant Loading | Small particles can cause engine wear. | EA15K35-EA | 99% efficiency at 20 microns. | Does not replace regular service intervals. |
| Extreme Temperatures | Cold starts or high heat can affect lubrication. | DP530QT-EA | Excels in hot and cold extremes. | Follow manufacturer service schedules. |
Common maintenance concerns for this vehicle
Based on NHTSA consumer reports, owners of the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox have noted several areas for attention:
- Engine & Fuel Systems: Some owners have reported issues regarding engine power loss or sudden shutdowns.
- Turbocharger Performance: There are mentions of turbo-related acceleration loss in similar models.
- Braking System: Concerns regarding brake performance and caliper components have been noted in recall data.
- Fuel Leaks: Reports exist concerning fuel management system leaks.
Note: NHTSA complaints are owner reports and should not be treated as verified defects.
Recall, TSB, and manufacturer communication notes
The following official recalls have been identified for the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox:
- Brake System: Certain vehicles may have insufficient coating on rear brake caliper pistons, potentially reducing performance. (Campaign 18V576000)
- Fuel System: The high-pressure fuel pump may detach from its mounting flange, creating a risk of fuel leaks and fire. (Campaign 18V358000)
- Visibility/Glass: Driver and passenger door window glass may not be properly tempered. (Campaign 18V252000)
Important: Always verify open recalls by checking your specific VIN through the NHTSA website or a Chevrolet dealer.
About this vehicle
The 2018 Chevrolet Equinox is a compact crossover SUV that represents a significant part of General Motors’ lineup of versatile passenger vehicles. This specific configuration features a 1.6L 4-cylinder diesel engine, categorized under the GM Duramax umbrella. Diesel variants in this segment are typically utilized by owners seeking improved fuel efficiency and higher torque for highway cruising compared to their gasoline counterparts.
Because this is a small-displacement diesel engine, maintenance focus often shifts toward specialized components such as the turbocharger, fuel injection systems, and emissions control hardware (like DPF/SCR systems common in modern diesels), which are critical for maintaining performance and longevity. Owners of this 1.6L diesel model should be particularly attentive to fuel quality and specialized oil specifications required for high-pressure common rail diesel engines to prevent premature wear.
While the Equinox shares platform architecture with other GM vehicles like the GMC Terrain, specific engine-related maintenance requirements can vary significantly between gasoline and diesel configurations. It is recommended that owners consult their owner’s manual for precise service intervals.
Common questions about this vehicle’s diesel oil and maintenance
How much oil does my 1.6L Equinox Diesel take?
It takes approximately 5.3 quarts of oil when performing a service that includes the oil filter change.
What is the correct oil viscosity for cold weather?
For temperatures below -29°C, a 0W-40 viscosity is suggested. For all other temperatures, 5W-30 is recommended.
Can I use Dexos2 oil in my diesel Equinox?
The AMSOIL lookup note states that vehicles originally using GM Dexos2 may use a GM Dexos D licensed engine oil of the appropriate viscosity grade.
What is the torque for the oil drain plug?
The oil drain plug should be torqued to 18 ft/lbs.
How often should I change my transmission fluid?
Specific intervals are not confirmed from source data; please consult your owner’s manual for manufacturer-recommended service intervals.
Does AMSOIL offer a kit for this vehicle?
Yes, an oil change kit is available including AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic Diesel Oil and an AMSOIL Oil Filter (EA15K35-EA).
Disclaimer: This information is derived from provided manufacturer and research data. Always verify all specifications, capacities, and torque values in your official vehicle owner’s manual or via a professional technician before performing maintenance.