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
-
✅ 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.
Need these specs on your phone? Download OilFinderPro app for offline access and oil change reminders.
Last verified: 2026-05-12 | Source: 2023 Hyundai Palisade Owner’s Manual