2017 Chevrolet Tahoe — Fluid Type Specs

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine oil (5.3L V8 L83)	SAE 0W-20, GM dexos1 (Gen 1 or later); API SN or newer	~8.0 qt (7.6 L) w/ filter
Engine coolant	GM DEX-COOL OAT (orange); Genuine GM/ACDelco long-life	~14–16 qt (13.2–15.1 L), verify by VIN/options
Automatic transmission (6L80 6-spd)	DEXRON-VI ATF (licensed)	Total dry ~12–13.5 qt; service drain ~5–7 qt
Transfer case (4WD only)	GM Auto-Trak II (blue), GM p/n 19332528 (supersedes 12378508)	~1.9–2.0 qt (1.8–1.9 L)
Front differential (4WD only)	SAE 75W-90, API GL-5 synthetic gear oil	~1.5–1.8 qt (1.4–1.7 L)
Rear differential (1500)	SAE 75W-90, API GL-5 synthetic gear oil; no friction modifier needed for G80 locker	~2.5–3.0 qt (2.4–2.8 L)
Brake fluid	DOT 3 (FMVSS 116)	Fill to MAX; ~1 qt (0.95 L) typically needed to flush
Power steering	Electric power steering — no hydraulic fluid to service	N/A
Washer fluid	Methanol-based windshield washer fluid, -20°F or better	~1.5–2.5 gal (5.7–9.5 L), varies w/ rear wash option
DEF (diesel only)	Not applicable — 2017 Tahoe is gasoline in North America	N/A

Engine oil

• Spec: SAE 0W-20 meeting GM dexos1 (Gen 1 or later). API SN or newer (SN Plus, SP) is acceptable if also dexos1-licensed. For 2017, the owner’s manual calls for dexos1.
• Capacity: Approximately 8.0 quarts (7.6 L) with filter for the 5.3L L83 V8.
• Interval: Follow the GM Oil Life Monitoring system; change at least annually, sooner for severe duty (frequent towing, short trips, dusty conditions).
• Tips/pitfalls:
  • Do not substitute non-dexos oils; many “full synthetics” are not licensed. Look for the dexos1 trademark on the bottle.
  • Always replace the drain plug gasket if damaged, and verify the correct PF63E-type filter (or equivalent) is installed and torqued properly.

Engine coolant

• Type: Genuine GM DEX-COOL, an OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant; orange in color.
• Capacity: Roughly 14–16 quarts depending on configuration (rear HVAC, tow package, etc.). Verify in the owner’s manual or by VIN-specific service data.
• Interval: 5 years or 150,000 miles under normal service (whichever comes first). Inspect level and concentration at each service.
• Tips/pitfalls:
  • Do not mix DEX-COOL with conventional green or HOAT coolants. Mixing different chemistries shortens service life and can cause deposits. If contamination occurs, perform a full flush.
  • Use premixed 50/50 DEX-COOL/distilled water or concentrate mixed with distilled water. Avoid hard water.

Automatic transmission (6L80)

• Type: Licensed DEXRON-VI ATF only.
• Capacity: Total dry fill approximately 12–13.5 quarts; a typical pan drain and filter service returns 5–7 quarts. Exact volume varies with pan depth and cooler configuration—verify by service procedure and fluid level check at temperature.
• Interval: GM often labels the fluid “filled for life,” but for severe service (towing, mountain driving, high heat) a 45,000-mile service is prudent. Otherwise, consider 60,000–90,000 miles.
• Tips/pitfalls:
  • Never use “multi-vehicle” ATF unless it explicitly states it is licensed DEXRON-VI.
  • The 6L80 uses a specific fill/level-check procedure at a set fluid temperature via the level plug—improper checks lead to over/underfill.

Transfer case (4WD only)

• Type: GM Auto-Trak II transfer case fluid (blue), GM p/n 19332528 (supersedes 12378508). This is a unique fluid—do not use ATF.
• Capacity: About 1.9–2.0 quarts depending on the exact transfer case (e.g., NQH Autotrac). Verify by RPO.
• Interval: Severe service (frequent 4WD use/towing) ~45,000 miles; otherwise inspect and service around 90,000 miles.
• Tips/pitfalls:
  • Auto-Trak II is not the same as DEXRON-VI; mixing can damage the clutch packs in Autotrac units.
  • Always verify the transfer-case RPO before fluid selection if components have been replaced.

Front and rear differentials

• Type: SAE 75W-90 API GL-5 synthetic gear oil front and rear.
• Capacities: Front ~1.5–1.8 quarts; rear ~2.5–3.0 quarts depending on axle and cover design. Fill to the bottom of the fill hole unless otherwise specified.
• Interval: Inspect every 30,000 miles; replace around 45,000 miles for heavy towing/4x4 use, otherwise 90,000 miles is common.
• Tips/pitfalls:
  • Most Tahoe 1500 models use the G80 mechanical locking differential—no limited-slip friction modifier is required. If an aftermarket clutch-type LSD has been installed, follow that manufacturer’s additive guidance.
  • Clean magnet(s) in the cover or fill plug during service and reseal with a new gasket/RTV as specified.

Brake fluid

• Type: DOT 3 brake fluid (FMVSS 116 compliant). DOT 4 is generally compatible but not required; do not use DOT 5 silicone.
• Capacity: Not specified by GM; plan ~1 quart (0.95 L) to flush the entire system.
• Interval: Replace every 2–3 years regardless of mileage.
• Tips/pitfalls:
  • Keep reservoir clean; moisture contamination lowers boiling point and corrodes components.
  • Use a scan tool to cycle the ABS modulator when performing a complete flush for best results.

Power steering

• System: Electric power steering (EPS); there is no serviceable hydraulic power steering fluid on 2017 Tahoe.
• Interval: N/A. Inspect steering components and EPS connectors during routine service.

Washer fluid

• Type: Standard methanol-based windshield washer fluid rated to local minimum temperatures (−20°F/−29°C or better). Summer bug-remover blends are acceptable seasonally.
• Capacity: Approximately 1.5–2.5 gallons depending on options (rear washer reservoir included). Fill to the neck; do not overfill.
• Tips: Use a winter blend before the first freeze to avoid reservoir or line damage.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

• Not applicable: The 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe sold in North America is gasoline-powered only. If servicing an export diesel variant or swapped vehicle, use DEF that meets ISO 22241.

Verify capacities against the owner’s manual or OEM service information by VIN, especially for transmission, transfer case, and cooling system, which vary with options.

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