🔧 Engine Oil and Oil Filter - Fluid Service

Changing the oil and filter on your Sierra keeps the 5.3L V8 lubricated, cooled, and protected from wear. This service is straightforward if you work safely and replace the drain plug seal if needed.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 1-1.5 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Work on a level surface and let the engine cool enough to avoid burns from hot oil and exhaust parts.
• Support the truck with jack stands; never rely on a jack alone. Jack stands are metal supports that hold the vehicle safely while you work.
• Keep the ignition off and keys away from the vehicle while underneath it.
• Use care around the oil filter and drain pan because oil can spill suddenly when loosened.
• No battery disconnect is required for this service.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Floor jack (rated 3-ton minimum)
• Jack stands (rated for truck weight)
• Wheel chocks
• 15mm socket
• Ratchet
• Oil filter wrench
• Oil drain pan
• Torque wrench
• Funnel
• Gloves
• Safety glasses
• Shop towels

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Engine oil (0W-20 dexos1 approved full synthetic) - Qty: 8 quarts
• Oil filter - Qty: 1
• Oil drain plug washer - Qty: 1

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground, set the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels.
• Let the engine sit 10-15 minutes after shutdown so the oil can drain back and cool a bit.
• Gather all parts before starting so you can refill immediately after the drain and filter change.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Raise and secure the truck

• Use the floor jack to lift the front of the truck at the proper lift point.
• Place jack stands under the frame and lower the truck onto them.
• Double-check stability before crawling underneath.

Step 2: Drain the engine oil

• Place the oil drain pan under the oil pan drain plug.
• Use the 15mm socket and ratchet to remove the drain plug.
• Let the oil drain completely.
• Install the drain plug with a new washer if equipped. Torque to 25 Nm (18 ft-lbs).

Step 3: Remove the old oil filter

• Move the oil drain pan under the filter area.
• Use the oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the oil filter.
• Check that the old filter gasket came off with the filter.
• Tip: Keep the filter upright to reduce spills.

Step 4: Prepare and install the new oil filter

• Lightly coat the new filter gasket with clean engine oil.
• Spin the new filter on by hand until the gasket touches the mounting surface.
• Then tighten it another 3/4 turn by hand.
• Do not overtighten the filter.

Step 5: Refill the engine with oil

• Remove the oil fill cap and use the funnel to add 0W-20 dexos1 approved full synthetic.
• Add about 7.5 quarts first, then top off after checking the level.
• Install the oil fill cap.

Step 6: Start and verify

• Start the engine and let it idle 30-60 seconds.
• Check underneath for leaks at the drain plug and filter.
• Shut the engine off, wait a few minutes, then check the dipstick and top off as needed.

Step 7: Reset the oil life monitor

• Use the driver information controls to reset the oil life system.
• Follow the truck’s menu for oil life reset until it shows 100%.

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✅ After Repair

• Recheck the oil level after a short drive and top off if needed.
• Inspect for any fresh leaks under the truck.
• Dispose of used oil and the old filter at a proper recycling location.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $90-$170 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $45-$85 (parts only)

You Save: $45-$85 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1 hour.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.