🛢️Oil Type & Capacity
Chevrolet Impala Oil Type & Capacity
Find the correct oil type, weight, and capacity for your Chevrolet Impala. Covers all model years with filter recommendations and drain intervals.
Quick Answer
The Chevrolet Impala uses synthetic motor oil — typically 0W-20 for newer models (2010+) or 5W-30 for older ones. Capacity varies by engine; check below for your specific year.
2015-2020
2015-2020Recommended Oil0W-20 Full Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval7,500 - 10,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Modern engines require full synthetic — conventional oil may void warranty
- →Many newer models have extended drain intervals up to 10,000 miles
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Chevrolet owner's manual
2009-2014
2009-2014Recommended Oil0W-20 Full Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval7,500 - 10,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Modern engines require full synthetic — conventional oil may void warranty
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Chevrolet owner's manual
2003-2008
2003-2008Recommended Oil5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval3,000 - 5,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Chevrolet owner's manual
- →Older engines may benefit from high-mileage formula if over 75,000 miles
1997-2002
1997-2002Recommended Oil5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval3,000 - 5,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Chevrolet owner's manual
- →Older engines may benefit from high-mileage formula if over 75,000 miles
1991-1996
1991-1996Recommended Oil5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval3,000 - 5,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Chevrolet owner's manual
- →Older engines may benefit from high-mileage formula if over 75,000 miles
1985-1990
1985-1990Recommended Oil5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval3,000 - 5,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Chevrolet owner's manual
- →Older engines may benefit from high-mileage formula if over 75,000 miles
1979-1984
1979-1984Recommended Oil5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval3,000 - 5,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Chevrolet owner's manual
- →Older engines may benefit from high-mileage formula if over 75,000 miles
1973-1978
1973-1978Recommended Oil5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval3,000 - 5,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Chevrolet owner's manual
- →Older engines may benefit from high-mileage formula if over 75,000 miles
1967-1972
1967-1972Recommended Oil5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval3,000 - 5,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Chevrolet owner's manual
- →Older engines may benefit from high-mileage formula if over 75,000 miles
1961-1966
1961-1966Recommended Oil5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval3,000 - 5,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Chevrolet owner's manual
- →Older engines may benefit from high-mileage formula if over 75,000 miles
1958-1960
1958-1960Recommended Oil5W-30 Conventional or Synthetic
Oil Capacity (with filter)4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Oil Change Interval3,000 - 5,000 miles
Drain Plug Torque25 - 35 ft-lbs (check service manual)
Notes
- →Always verify oil weight on the oil cap or in your Chevrolet owner's manual
- →Older engines may benefit from high-mileage formula if over 75,000 miles
Frequently Asked Questions
- What type of oil does a Chevrolet Impala use?
- Most newer Chevrolet Impala models (2010+) use 0W-20 full synthetic oil. Older models typically use 5W-30. The exact specification depends on your engine — check the oil cap or owner's manual for the definitive answer.
- How many quarts of oil does a Chevrolet Impala take?
- Oil capacity for the Chevrolet Impala ranges from 4.0 to 6.5 quarts depending on engine size and whether you're replacing the filter. Four-cylinder engines are typically on the lower end, V6 and V8 on the higher end.
- Can I use conventional oil in my Chevrolet Impala?
- For 2010+ Chevrolet Impala models, full synthetic is strongly recommended (and often required). Older models can typically use conventional, but synthetic provides better protection, longer drain intervals, and improved fuel economy.
- How often should I change the oil in my Chevrolet Impala?
- Modern Chevrolet Impala models typically call for oil changes every 5,000 - 10,000 miles depending on driving conditions. Older models should stick to 3,000 - 5,000 miles. Severe driving (towing, extreme heat, short trips) may require more frequent changes.
- What happens if I use the wrong oil in my Chevrolet Impala?
- Using oil that's too thick can reduce fuel economy and increase engine wear during cold starts. Oil that's too thin may not protect adequately under load. For best results, always use the manufacturer-specified weight.