Regular oil changes are essential to keeping your 2017 Chevy Silverado running at peak performance. Oil plays a critical role in lubricating the engine’s moving parts, minimizing friction, dispersing heat, and preventing contaminants from causing damage. Over time, oil becomes dirty and loses its ability to protect your engine effectively, so sticking to a regular oil change schedule is key to ensuring the long life of your truck.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about changing the oil in your 2017 Chevy Silverado, from selecting the right oil to performing the oil change yourself. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY mechanic or a first-time oil changer, this step-by-step guide will help you keep your Silverado’s engine in top condition.
Why Regular Oil Changes Are Critical for Your 2017 Silverado
Changing your truck’s oil on a regular basis ensures that your engine stays lubricated, cool, and free from harmful debris. As oil circulates through the engine, it picks up contaminants such as dirt, metal particles, and carbon deposits, which can cause damage if left unchecked. Additionally, fresh oil helps reduce engine friction and prevents excessive wear and tear on internal components.
Here are some of the key reasons why regular oil changes are essential:
- Engine Lubrication: Fresh oil helps lubricate moving parts, preventing metal-on-metal contact and reducing wear.
- Heat Regulation: Oil helps dissipate heat generated by friction inside the engine, keeping temperatures under control and preventing overheating.
- Cleaning and Protection: Oil carries away debris and contaminants that accumulate over time. Regular oil changes help keep your engine clean and protected.
- Extended Engine Life: Proper lubrication and cleanliness contribute to reduced engine wear, helping extend the life of your Silverado and reducing the likelihood of costly repairs.
Recommended Oil for the 2017 Chevy Silverado
Selecting the correct oil for your 2017 Chevy Silverado is crucial for maintaining performance and protection. Chevrolet recommends using 5W-30 full synthetic oil for this model. Full synthetic oil provides excellent protection in extreme temperatures, resists breakdown, and maintains its lubricating properties for longer intervals than conventional oils.
Here are the most common oil types suitable for your Silverado:
- 5W-30 Full Synthetic Oil: This oil offers superior protection and performance in a wide range of temperatures, making it ideal for the 2017 Silverado.
- High-Mileage Synthetic Oil (5W-30): If your Silverado has over 75,000 miles, high-mileage synthetic oil may help protect older engines by reducing leaks and minimizing oil consumption.
- Synthetic Blend Oil (5W-30): A synthetic blend offers some benefits of full synthetic oil at a lower cost but may require more frequent changes.
How Often Should You Change the Oil in a 2017 Silverado?
The oil change interval for your 2017 Chevy Silverado depends on several factors, including your driving habits and the type of oil used. For full synthetic oil, Chevrolet typically recommends an oil change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles. However, if you frequently drive in extreme conditions—such as towing heavy loads, driving in stop-and-go traffic, or operating in extreme temperatures—you may need to change the oil more frequently, around every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
Always consult your owner’s manual for the specific oil change interval recommended for your vehicle and adjust the frequency based on your driving conditions.
Signs That Your 2017 Silverado Needs an Oil Change
In addition to following a regular oil change schedule, it’s important to watch for signs that indicate your Silverado may need an oil change sooner. Here are a few signs to look out for:
- Oil Change Light: If the oil change indicator or check engine light illuminates on your dashboard, it’s time to change the oil.
- Dark or Dirty Oil: Fresh oil is amber and clear. If the oil on your dipstick is dark, dirty, or gritty, it’s time for an oil change.
- Engine Noise: Unusual noises such as knocking, ticking, or grinding could indicate that the oil is no longer adequately lubricating the engine.
- Decreased Fuel Efficiency: If your fuel efficiency drops, it could be a sign that the oil is old or degraded, causing the engine to work harder.
- Burning Oil Smell: A burning oil smell may indicate that the oil is breaking down or that there is a leak, signaling the need for an oil change.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the Oil in a 2017 Silverado
Changing the oil in your 2017 Chevy Silverado is a straightforward process that can be done at home with the right tools and materials. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure you perform the oil change correctly:
Materials Needed:
- 5W-30 full synthetic oil (8 quarts for V8 engines)
- Oil filter (specific for the 2017 Chevy Silverado)
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Socket wrench and oil filter wrench
- Jack and jack stands
- New drain plug gasket (optional)
- Clean cloth or paper towels
Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle Park your Silverado on a flat, level surface and turn off the engine. Let the engine cool for about 10-15 minutes to avoid burns from hot oil.
Step 2: Lift the Vehicle Using a jack, lift the front of your truck and securely support it with jack stands. Ensure the vehicle is stable and properly supported before working underneath it.
Step 3: Drain the Old Oil Locate the oil drain plug on the underside of the engine’s oil pan. Place the oil drain pan beneath the plug to catch the old oil. Use a socket wrench to carefully remove the drain plug and allow the oil to drain completely into the pan. Once the oil has drained, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely.
Step 4: Remove the Old Oil Filter Using an oil filter wrench, remove the old oil filter. Be prepared for some oil to spill when removing the filter. Allow any remaining oil to drain into the oil pan.
Step 5: Install the New Oil Filter Before installing the new oil filter, apply a small amount of fresh oil to the rubber gasket on the filter. This helps create a proper seal and makes it easier to remove during the next oil change. Screw the new filter into place by hand, then tighten it with the oil filter wrench.
Step 6: Add Fresh Oil Using a funnel, pour the recommended amount of 5W-30 full synthetic oil into the engine through the oil fill cap. The 2017 Chevy Silverado typically requires 8 quarts of oil for the V8 engine, but check your owner’s manual for the exact capacity.
Step 7: Check the Oil Level After adding the oil, replace the oil fill cap and start the engine. Let it idle for a few minutes to circulate the oil throughout the engine. Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes before checking the oil level with the dipstick. Make sure the oil reaches the “Full” mark on the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary.
Step 8: Clean Up and Dispose of Used Oil Once the oil change is complete, clean up any spills and properly dispose of the used oil and filter at a recycling center or auto parts store. Never pour used oil down the drain or dispose of it in household trash.
Benefits of Regular Oil Changes for Your 2017 Chevy Silverado
Regular oil changes provide numerous benefits that contribute to the health and longevity of your truck:
- Improved Engine Performance: Fresh oil reduces friction, allowing the engine to run more smoothly and efficiently.
- Prolonged Engine Life: Clean oil protects the engine from wear and tear, extending its lifespan and reducing the likelihood of costly repairs.
- Better Fuel Efficiency: When the engine is properly lubricated, it operates more efficiently, leading to improved fuel economy.
- Reduced Emissions: Regular oil changes help your engine burn fuel more cleanly, reducing harmful emissions and contributing to a healthier environment.
Conclusion
Changing the oil in your 2017 Chevy Silverado is a simple yet essential task that helps ensure your engine continues to perform at its best. By following the recommended oil change intervals and using the correct oil, you can protect your engine, improve fuel efficiency, and extend the life of your truck. Whether you choose to perform the oil change yourself or take your truck to a professional, staying on top of this vital maintenance task is key to keeping your Silverado reliable for years to come.