How to Change the Oil in a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado Model 3500
The 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 pickup truck is part of the second generation Silverado Heavy Duty family, sold from 2002 to 2007. The 3500 has dual rear wheels, designed for towing trailers, and it is available with either an 8.1-liter gasoline engine or a 6.6-liter diesel engine. Proper maintenance of the 3500 includes regular oil changes, which are indicated by the on-board GM oil life system. This system monitors engine use to determine the optimum oil change interval. Once the system signals an oil change is due, you should do so within the next 500 miles to avoid unnecessary engine wear.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Drain pan
- Socket set
- Rags
- Oil filter wrench
- Replacement filter
- Funnel
- Replacement oil
- Torque wrench (optional, but recommended)
Instructions
-
-
1
Start the truck and let it run for about 10 minutes to warm up the oil, allowing it to flow better.
-
2
Open the hood and remove the oil filler cap, which is marked "Engine Oil."
-
-
3
Place a drain pan beneath and slightly to the rear of the oil pan drain plug. The oil pan is attached to the bottom of the engine, approximately even with the front wheels, and the plug is on the back of the oil pan. When the oil first begins to drain, it will flow out toward the rear. As the flow decreases, you might have to move the pan forward, depending on how large the pan is.
-
4
Use a socket wrench to loosen the drain plug. Finish removing the plug by hand, quickly removing it as soon as it is free of the threads. Allow the oil to drain completely. Clean the plug and around the drain hole with a rag. Replace the drain plug and tighten it until it's snug, approximately 18 ft-lbs of torque. Don't overtighten the plug.
-
5
Use the oil filter wrench to loosen the oil filter, located on the driver's side of the engine, slightly forward and above the oil pan. Finish removing the filter by hand. Prepare the new filter by lubricating the rubber seal with some of the old oil. Screw the filter onto the inlet, and tighten it hand-tight. Use the wrench to tighten it just slightly more, to approximately 22 ft-lbs of torque.
-
6
Place the funnel into the oil filler opening and add 5.5 quarts of 5W-30 engine oil. Remove the oil dipstick, wipe it off with a clean rag, and replace it. Remove the dipstick again, and make sure the oil level reaches the cross-hatched section that indicates full. If not, add 1/2 quart more, and recheck. Once the oil is full, replace the oil filler cap and start the truck. Let it run for about five minutes.
-
7
Turn off the truck, and recheck the oil level. If necessary, add more oil, being careful not to overfill, which can damage the engine.
-
8
Reset the oil life system. Turn the ignition to the "Run" position without starting the truck. Fully depress the gas pedal three times within five seconds, while watching the "Change Engine Oil" light on the instrument panel. The light should blink for five seconds and then disappear.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Wearing rubber gloves will help keep your hands clean.
If the engine is hot, wear long sleeves and mechanic's gloves to prevent burns.
