Quick answer: Change Oil on a 2015–2022 Chevrolet Colorado is rated Moderate and takes about 45 minutes. You'll need 9 tools for this job, and parts cost about $42. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name |
Part Number |
Price |
Buy |
| Engine Oil (5W-30 Full Synthetic) |
— |
$30.00 |
|
| Oil Filter |
— |
$10.00 |
|
| Drain Plug Washer |
11562588 |
$2.00 |
|
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps carefully
1
Identify Your Engine (2.5L vs 3.6L!)
The 2015–2022 Colorado WT came with TWO engines: 2.5L LCV (0W-20, 5.0 qt) or 3.6L LGZ V6 (5W-30, 6.0 qt, cartridge filter). Check your badge or VIN BEFORE buying oil. You need the correct oil and filter for yours.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
The WT badge tells you nothing about the engine — I've seen guys buy 0W-20 for a V6 because 'it's a WT.' Badge or VIN first, then the parts counter.
2
Drain the Old Oil
Position the drain pan and remove the drain plug — let the old oil drain. 2.5L LCV: expect ~5.0 quarts; 3.6L LGZ V6: expect ~6.0 quarts. Note how much comes out — it confirms your engine's capacity.
3
Replace Filter (spin-on vs cartridge!)
2.5L LCV: remove the spin-on filter — hand-tighten plus a quarter turn on install. 3.6L V6: remove the CARTRIDGE housing and replace the element; cap torque 18 ft-lbs. Don't buy a spin-on for the V6.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Ray Delgado
I've found that cartridge on the V6, spin-on on the four — buy the wrong filter and you're walking back to the store. The 18 ft-lb plastic cap is gentle work; gorilla arms crack it.
4
Reinstall Drain Plug (18 ft-lbs)
Reinstall the drain plug. 3.6L V6: torque to 18 ft-lbs (verified). 2.5L: 18 ft-lbs is the GM standard (lightly unverified — snug is safe). Use a torque wrench for the V6. Don't over-tighten either pan.
5
Add Correct Oil (5.0 vs 6.0 qt!)
Add the correct oil for YOUR engine: 2.5L 5.0 qt of 0W-20; 3.6L V6 6.0 qt of 5W-30 Dexos1. The 0W-20 vs 5W-30 split is critical — don't mix them.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
I've learned: 0W-20 in the four, 5W-30 in the V6 — the capacities differ by a full quart too. Mix them up and you're draining the whole thing and starting over.
6
Check Level, Leaks, Reset Monitor
Start the engine — check for leaks and recheck the level after 30 seconds; top up if needed. Reset the oil life monitor (typically 7,500-mile interval). Don't use the wrong engine's specs — the WT badge doesn't identify your engine.
All Done!
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Not allowing the engine to cool before draining oil, leading to burns or hot oil spills.
- • Over-tightening the drain plug or oil filter, causing damage or making future removal difficult.
- • Failing to replace the drain plug washer, leading to leaks.
