Complete Oil Specifications
Your 2023 Hyundai Palisade 3.8L V6 requires 5W-30 full synthetic oil. This is a cartridge-style filter engine — the filter housing is mounted on top of the engine, not a spin-on canister at the side.
Quick Reference
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Viscosity | 5W-30 |
| API Rating | SP |
| ILSAC Rating | GF-6A |
| Capacity (with filter) | 6.9 quarts |
| Oil Filter | Hyundai 26320-3C30A |
| Normal Interval | 7500 miles |
Why 5W-30 is Critical for This Engine
The Lambda III 3.8L V6 is a naturally aspirated engine with Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and CVVT on both intake and exhaust camshafts. Hyundai specifies 5W-30 — not 0W-20 — because the larger displacement and six-cylinder architecture require greater film thickness at operating temperature to maintain bearing clearance tolerances. The higher viscosity grade also supports the GDI high-pressure fuel pump, which is driven off the camshaft and imposes significant cam lobe loading.
Using thinner oil will:
- ❌ Reduce bearing film thickness in the high-load V6 crankshaft journals
- ❌ Increase camshaft wear at the GDI pump lobe under sustained load
- ❌ Cause oil pressure warnings during towing or mountain driving
Hyundai-Approved Oil Brands
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✅ Hyundai Genuine Motor Oil 5W-30
-
✅ Mobil 1 Extended Performance 5W-30
-
✅ Castrol EDGE 5W-30
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✅ Pennzoil Platinum 5W-30
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✅ Valvoline Full Synthetic 5W-30
All oils must meet API SP and ILSAC GF-6A. Full synthetic is required for the 7,500-mile interval.
Severe Service Check
The Palisade is a 3-row family hauler — use the 5000-mile interval if you:
- Tow a trailer or boat regularly
- Drive with full passenger loads on mountain routes
- Operate frequently in stop-and-go traffic with the engine under sustained load
- Drive in temperatures consistently above 95°F
Installation Details
Drain Plug Torque: 32 ft-lbs
OEM Filter: Hyundai 26320-3C30A (cartridge element) ⚠️ The 3.8L Lambda III uses a top-mounted cartridge housing — not a spin-on filter. The housing cap requires a 27mm cap wrench. Replace only the cartridge element, not the entire housing.
Aftermarket Filters:
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Denso 150-2003
-
Mann HU 718/5 x
-
WIX WL10290
Pro Tip: After removing the filter housing cap, use a turkey baster or rag to remove pooled oil before extracting the old cartridge — the housing holds residual oil that will spill onto the engine if poured carelessly. Lube the new cartridge O-ring before reinstalling the cap.
FAQs
What oil does a 2023 Hyundai Palisade 3.8L V6 take? 5W-30 full synthetic oil meeting API SP and ILSAC GF-6A standards.
How many quarts does it need? 6.9 quarts with a new filter element, 6.5 without.
Can I use 0W-20 instead? No. The Lambda III 3.8L V6 requires 5W-30. Using 0W-20 provides insufficient film thickness for the six-cylinder crankshaft and GDI camshaft loading at operating temperature.
What type of oil filter does the Palisade 3.8L use? A top-mounted cartridge filter (part 26320-3C30A), not a spin-on. You need a 27mm filter housing cap wrench to access it.
Is synthetic oil required? Yes. Full synthetic is required to meet the 7,500-mile service interval and maintain oil film integrity across the Lambda III’s operating temperature range.
How often should I change the oil? Every 7500 miles under normal conditions, or 5000 miles under severe service.
Last verified: 2026-05-12 | Source: 2023 Hyundai Palisade Owner’s Manual