How to Change the Oil on a Chevy Silverado 1500 (Step-by-Step, All Years)

Changing your own oil on a Silverado 1500 is one of the best maintenance habits you can build. It takes 30–45 minutes, costs $40–$60 in parts, and saves you $80–$120 over a dealer oil change — while giving you confidence in exactly what went into your engine.

This guide covers every generation of Silverado 1500 from 2007 through 2026.

What You'll Need

• Correct oil: 0W-20 full synthetic dexos1 (2014–2026 EcoTec3) or 5W-30 (pre-2014 Vortec)
• Oil quantity: 8 quarts (2014–2026 5.3L / 6.2L) or 6 quarts (pre-2014 5.3L)
• Oil filter: ACDelco PF63E (5.3L/6.2L EcoTec3) or ACDelco PF61E (pre-2014)
• Drain plug socket: 15mm
• Oil filter wrench (optional but helpful)
• Drain pan (at least 8 quart capacity)
• Vehicle ramps or jack stands
• Torque wrench (drain plug torque: 18 lb-ft)
• Funnel, rags, nitrile gloves

Step-by-Step Oil Change Procedure

Step 1: Warm the Engine (2–3 Minutes)

Run the engine for 2–3 minutes to warm the oil — warm oil drains faster and more completely than cold oil. Don't do a full drive; just idle briefly. Turn the engine off and let it cool for 5 minutes before getting underneath.

Step 2: Raise and Support the Truck

Drive onto ramps or use a floor jack with jack stands. Never work under a truck supported only by a jack. The drain plug and filter are easily accessible without lifting on most Silverados — the oil pan sits low enough on 2WD trucks. On 4WD models, raising the front helps.

Step 3: Remove the Drain Plug

Locate the drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan — it's a 15mm bolt on all EcoTec3-generation Silverados. Position your drain pan, then loosen the plug counterclockwise. Once it's finger-loose, pull it away quickly to avoid getting hot oil on your hands. Let the oil drain fully (5–7 minutes).

Inspect the drain plug washer. On 2014+ Silverados the drain plug uses a crush washer — replace it every other oil change or when it shows any deformation.

Step 4: Remove and Replace the Oil Filter

The oil filter on 2014–2026 Silverados is a cartridge-style filter in a canister on the driver's side of the block (not a traditional spin-on). Use a 32mm oil filter socket or the appropriate cap-style wrench. Turn counterclockwise to remove. The filter housing will have residual oil — drain it into your pan.

Install the new filter cartridge, ensuring the O-ring is seated correctly. Torque the housing to 18 lb-ft — don't overtighten.

Pre-2014 Vortec engines use a traditional spin-on filter on the passenger side of the block. Hand-tighten ¾ turn after the gasket contacts the block.

Step 5: Reinstall the Drain Plug

Clean the drain plug and pan mating surface. Thread the plug in by hand first to avoid cross-threading, then torque to 18 lb-ft. Don't overtighten — aluminum oil pans strip easily.

Step 6: Add New Oil

Remove the oil fill cap on the valve cover (labeled "Oil" or with an oil can icon). Using a funnel, add 7.5 quarts first, then check the dipstick. Add oil in small increments until the dipstick reads full in the FULL/MAX zone. The 5.3L and 6.2L EcoTec3 take exactly 8 quarts with a new filter — but always verify with the dipstick.

Step 7: Start the Engine and Check for Leaks

Start the engine and let it idle for 60 seconds. The oil pressure light will go out within 3–5 seconds — if it stays on, shut the engine off immediately and investigate. While idling, look under the truck for any drips at the drain plug or filter. Shut off the engine, wait 5 minutes, recheck the dipstick level.

Step 8: Reset the Oil Life Monitor

2022–2026: Tap Settings → Vehicle → Oil Life Reset on the touchscreen.
2019–2021: Navigate DIC with steering wheel buttons to Oil Life % → hold OK for 3 seconds.
2014–2018: Press trip reset button three times rapidly with key in ON position, then press once more to confirm.
2007–2013: Navigate DIC to OIL LIFE REMAINING → hold SET/RESET for 3 seconds.

How Often to Change Oil on a Silverado 1500

• Normal driving: When OLM hits 20%, typically every 7,000–10,000 miles on full synthetic
• Towing/hauling regularly: Every 5,000 miles regardless of OLM reading
• Short trips/city driving: Every 5,000 miles — short trips don't fully warm the engine and contaminate oil faster
• Maximum interval: Never exceed 12 months regardless of mileage

Oil Change Cost Breakdown

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Related: Best Oil for the Silverado 1500 5.3L | How to Reset the Oil Life Monitor (Every GM Model)

— GM Service Guy