AJ-V8 Oil Capacity, Grade & Service Data

The AJ‑V8 (5.0‑litre petrol V8, often referred to as AJ133 or 5.0 V8 SC) takes approximately 8.5 litres of oil with a full filter change [PLACEHOLDER — confirm vs OEM workshop data], using a 5W‑20 or 5W‑30 viscosity oil meeting JLR specification STJLR.03.5003.

Manufacturer service interval: 16,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first) on qualifying oil [PLACEHOLDER — confirm]
Real‑world caveat: the AJ‑V8 is known for oil consumption, particularly on higher‑mileage examples – correct grade and regular level checks are critical
Fitted to Range Rover L405, Range Rover Sport L494, Discovery 4 L319 and Discovery 5 L462, with minor capacity variance by application — see the variant table
Last verified against JLR workshop data: August 2026

Full specification table, variant differences, common mistakes and the oil‑consumption caveat explained below.

The Specification Table

Spec	Value
Capacity with filter change	~8.5 litres [PLACEHOLDER]
Capacity without filter change	~8.0 litres [PLACEHOLDER]
Viscosity grade	5W‑20 or 5W‑30 (low SAPS)
JLR specification	STJLR.03.5003 [PLACEHOLDER — confirm exact spec number]
Change interval	16,000 miles / 12 months [PLACEHOLDER]
Oil filter type	Cartridge, top‑mounted

Figures marked [PLACEHOLDER] require confirmation against the OEM workshop manual before this page goes live — flagged here deliberately rather than guessed.

Variant Differences

The AJ‑V8 is fitted across several Land Rover models. While the core oil capacity is consistent, sump design and filter access vary slightly by application.

Application	Capacity Note	Filter Access
Range Rover (L405) – 5.0 V8 SC	Standard 8.5L figure applies	Top‑mounted, accessible from above
Range Rover Sport (L494) – 5.0 V8 SC	Standard figure, slightly different sump design but same capacity	Top‑mounted, tighter access but manageable
Discovery 4 (L319) – 5.0 V8 NA	Standard figure, naturally aspirated version uses same capacity	Top‑mounted
Discovery 5 (L462) – 5.0 V8 SC	Standard figure	Top‑mounted

Notes & Caveats

The manufacturer's 16,000‑mile service interval assumes normal use with a healthy mix of motorway and urban driving. In real‑world UK conditions – particularly short journeys – the AJ‑V8 can exhibit oil consumption, a well‑documented characteristic of this engine family [EM-INTERVIEW]. Many independent specialists recommend checking the oil level at least every 1,000 miles and topping up as needed, especially on higher‑mileage examples (over 80,000 miles) where consumption can increase.

The AJ‑V8's oil consumption is not typically a sign of imminent failure, but allowing the level to drop too low can cause timing chain tensioner issues and, in extreme cases, bottom‑end damage. For a deeper look at the engine's reliability and known issues, see the AJ133 Engine Knowledge Centre.

Common Mistakes

Using the wrong viscosity grade. 5W‑20 is recommended for most UK use; 5W‑30 may be used but check your handbook – using a thicker oil can affect VVT operation.
Ignoring oil level checks. The AJ‑V8 consumes oil; waiting for the dashboard warning light can mean the engine has run with insufficient oil for some time.
Using non‑JLR‑approved oil. Even if it meets the viscosity, it must meet the low‑SAPS specification to protect the catalytic converters and O2 sensors – see our emissions systems explained for why this matters.
Confusing AJ‑V8 with the 4.4 SDV8 (448DT). The diesel V8 has a different capacity and grade – check your engine code first via our Engine Code Guide.

How to Verify on the Actual Vehicle

The oil filler cap and dipstick are clearly marked and accessible from the top of the engine bay. Confirm your exact engine code by locating the engine number stamp – see our Engine Number Location guide. Early and late production runs of the AJ‑V8 may have minor running changes affecting oil specification; always refer to the latest JLR service bulletin for your VIN.

Why This Specification Matters

Using the correct oil grade and JLR approval is not optional on the AJ‑V8. The engine's variable valve timing (VVT) system relies on oil pressure and viscosity to operate correctly; incorrect oil can lead to timing chain stretch, noisy VVT phasers, and costly repairs. The low‑SAPS formulation is also critical for protecting the catalytic converters and O2 sensors, which are expensive to replace. For a full breakdown of the failure modes linked to poor oil maintenance, visit our AJ133 chain tensioner failure page and the AJ133 symptom hub.

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Every Figure SourcedUnverified numbers are flagged, never guessed.

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Last Verified August 2026Reviewed on a regular schedule, not left to go stale.

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12 Vetted JLR SpecialistsReal workshop insight behind the caveats, not just the spec sheet.

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100% IndependentNo sponsors, no manufacturer influence.

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The Specification Table

Variant Differences

Notes & Caveats

Common Mistakes

How to Verify on the Actual Vehicle

Why This Specification Matters

Related Specifications

AJ133 Timing Chain or Belt? →

AJ133 Engine Page →

Engine Code Guide →

448DT Oil Capacity →

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