Free API
engine

Oil Change

for 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 5.3L V8 EcoTec3 L83 · RWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
24 min
Tools
8
Steps
10
Fact-checked. Built from OLP's spec database, then independently fact-checked line by line with every correction applied. Master-tech sign-off by Chris Hackleman is queued. Cross-check torque values against the factory manual, and stop if anything looks unsafe. How our data is made.

This procedure covers draining old engine oil, replacing the oil filter, and refilling with fresh dexos1 0W-20 oil on the 5.3L V8 EcoTec3 L83 engine.

Warnings

⚠️Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always use jack stands rated for the vehicle weight.
Engine oil and components can be extremely hot. Allow engine to cool for at least 30 minutes before beginning work.
Used engine oil contains harmful contaminants. Avoid prolonged skin contact and dispose of properly at a recycling facility.

Tools required

As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.

Parts

As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.

Fluids

  • ACDelco dexos1 0W-20 Engine Oil — 8.5 qt

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
  2. If engine is cold, start and run for 2-3 minutes to warm oil slightly for better drainage (optional)
  3. Allow engine to cool for at least 30 minutes if recently operated
  4. Raise front of vehicle using jack and support securely on jack stands, or drive onto ramps
  5. Locate oil drain plug on passenger side of oil pan and oil filter on driver side of engine block

Procedure

  1. 1
    Remove skid plate if equipped
    If your Silverado is equipped with a front skid plate or belly pan, remove the mounting bolts using appropriate socket. Set aside skid plate and hardware.
  2. 2
    Position drain pan and remove drain plug
    Position oil drain pan under the oil drain plug located on the passenger side of the oil pan. Using a 15mm socket or wrench, loosen the drain plug slowly. Once loose, carefully unscrew by hand and allow oil to drain completely. This will take 3-5 minutes.
    Oil will flow quickly once plug is removed. Keep hands clear of the stream to avoid burns.
    Torque spec
    Oil Drain Plug35 Nm (26 lb-ft)
  3. 3
    Remove old oil filter
    Move drain pan under the oil filter location on the driver side of the engine block near the front. Using an oil filter wrench, turn the spin-on oil filter counterclockwise to remove. Allow any remaining oil to drain from the filter mounting surface.
    ℹ️The filter will contain approximately 1 quart of oil. Keep drain pan positioned to catch spillage.
    Torque spec
    Oil Filter (Spin-On)20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
  4. 4
    Install new oil drain plug with crush washer
    Clean the drain plug threads and oil pan drain hole with a shop rag. Install the new crush washer onto the drain plug. Thread the drain plug into the oil pan by hand to avoid cross-threading, then tighten to specification using a torque wrench.
    Torque spec
    Oil Drain Plug35 Nm (26 lb-ft)
  5. 5
    Prepare and install new oil filter
    Clean the oil filter mounting surface on the engine block with a clean rag. Apply a light coat of clean engine oil to the rubber gasket on the new oil filter. Thread the new filter onto the mounting boss by hand until the gasket contacts the mounting surface, then turn an additional 3/4 turn by hand.
    ℹ️Do not use an oil filter wrench to tighten. Hand tight plus 3/4 turn is sufficient to prevent leaks.
    Torque spec
    Oil Filter (Spin-On)20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
  6. 6
    Reinstall skid plate if equipped
    If skid plate was removed, reposition it and install mounting bolts. Tighten bolts to specification in a cross pattern.
  7. 7
    Lower vehicle and add engine oil
    Lower vehicle from jack stands or ramps. Remove oil filler cap from driver side valve cover. Using a funnel, add 8 quarts of ACDelco dexos1 0W-20 engine oil initially. Install oil filler cap hand tight only.
    ℹ️Total capacity is 8.5 quarts with filter. Adding 8 quarts initially prevents overfilling before checking level.
  8. 8
    Start engine and check for leaks
    Start the engine and let it idle for 30-60 seconds. Check under the vehicle for leaks at the drain plug and oil filter. The oil pressure warning light should extinguish within 5 seconds of starting. Shut off engine.
    If oil pressure warning light remains on after 5 seconds, shut off engine immediately and investigate cause.
  9. 9
    Check and adjust oil level
    Wait 2-3 minutes for oil to drain back into the pan. Remove dipstick, wipe clean, reinsert fully, then remove and check level. Oil should be between the MIN and MAX marks. Add remaining oil in small increments (0.25-0.5 quarts) until level reaches the MAX mark. Do not overfill.
    Overfilling can cause engine damage. Add oil gradually and check frequently.
  10. 10
    Reset oil life monitor
    Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine. Press accelerator pedal slowly to the floor three times within 5 seconds. Turn ignition off. The oil life monitoring system should now be reset to 100%.

Reassembly

  1. Ensure oil filler cap is installed hand tight only
  2. Verify skid plate is properly secured if equipped
  3. Double-check that no tools were left in engine compartment

Verification

  • Check oil level on dipstick - should be at MAX mark when vehicle is level and engine is off for 3+ minutes
  • Start engine and verify oil pressure warning light extinguishes within 5 seconds
  • Inspect under vehicle for any oil leaks at drain plug and filter after driving
  • Verify oil life monitor shows 100% remaining
  • Dispose of used oil and filter properly at an approved recycling facility
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