2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe with the 5.3L V8 L84 engine takes 8.0 quarts (7.6 liters) of 0W-20 engine oil, and the 6.2L V8 L87 engine also takes 8.0 quarts (7.6 liters) of 0W-20 engine oil.

Quick Answer

• Oil Capacity: 8.0 quarts (7.6 liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight: SAE 0W-20
• Oil Specification: Dexos1 Gen2 or latest API SP (consult owner's manual for the most up-to-date recommendation, typically Dexos1 Gen3 is backwards compatible and preferred).
• Oil Filter:
  • OEM ACDelco: PF63 (or equivalent)
  • Fram Cross-Reference: PH10575
  • Wix Cross-Reference: 57045
  • Mobil 1 Cross-Reference: M1-113

Capacity by Engine Option

*NOTE: As of the 2021 model year, the 3.0L Duramax diesel engine uses a different oil specification (Dexos D) but still often a 0W-20 viscosity. Always confirm the specific Dexos standard for diesel engines in your owner's manual. This article primarily focuses on gasoline engines.

Oil Change Interval

Chevrolet recommends adhering to the Oil Life Monitoring (OLM) system for determining oil change intervals. This system continuously monitors engine operating conditions to determine when an oil change is necessary. Typically, this can range from:

• Normal Duty: Up to 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: As low as 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, if your driving involves frequent short trips, extensive idling, towing, or extreme temperatures.

Always check your vehicle's DIC (Driver Information Center) for the "CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON" message or percentage remaining in the Oil Life Monitor.

Drain Plug Torque

The oil drain plug for the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe (gasoline engines) should be torqued to 18 lb-ft (25 Nm). It is highly recommended to replace the drain plug gasket/crush washer at each oil change to prevent leaks. The OEM part number for the crush washer is typically ACDelco 12616850.

How to Change the Oil

1. Gather Supplies: New oil, oil filter, drain pan, wrench for drain plug, oil filter wrench, torque wrench, funnels, gloves, safety glasses.
2. Warm Up Engine (Optional): Drive the vehicle for a few minutes to warm the oil, which helps it drain more easily. Exercise caution as engine and oil will be hot.
3. Lift and Secure: Safely lift the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands on a level surface.
4. Locate Drain Plug: Position the drain pan beneath the oil drain plug, typically on the rear passenger side of the oil pan.
5. Drain Oil: Carefully loosen and remove the drain plug, allowing the old oil to drain completely. Inspect the old crush washer.
6. Replace Drain Plug: Install a new crush washer on the drain plug and thread it back into the oil pan. Torque to 18 lb-ft (25 Nm).
7. Remove Old Filter: Locate the oil filter (typically on the front passenger side of the engine block). Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove it. Be prepared for some oil to spill.
8. Prepare New Filter: Apply a thin film of new engine oil to the gasket of the new oil filter.
9. Install New Filter: Hand-tighten the new oil filter until the gasket makes contact, then tighten an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn (or follow filter manufacturer's instructions). Do not overtighten.
10. Add New Oil: Lower the vehicle. Remove the oil filler cap and carefully add the specified amount of new oil.
11. Check Oil Level: Start the engine and let it run for a minute to circulate the oil. Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, then check the oil level on the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary.
12. Reset Oil Life Monitor: Follow instructions in your owner's manual to reset the OLM.

Common Issues / Tips

• Oil Consumption: Some owners report minor oil consumption, particularly on higher mileage 5.3L/6.2L engines. Regularly check your oil level between changes.
• Dexos Specification: Always use oil that meets the Dexos1 Gen2 (or newer, such as Gen3) specification for gasoline engines. Using non-Dexos oil could potentially void your warranty or lead to engine issues. For the diesel engine, ensure it specifies Dexos D.
• Oil Filter Location: The oil filter for the 2021 Tahoe gasoline engines is usually easily accessible from underneath the vehicle, simplifying changes.
• Diesel Engine (LM2): If you have the 3.0L Duramax diesel, ensure you use the correct Dexos D specification oil, which is distinct from the gasoline engine's Dexos1 spec. The viscosity often remains 0W-20, but the additive package is different.
• Drain Plug Location: For the gasoline engines, the drain plug is on the rear passenger side of the oil pan. For the diesel, it may be in a different location.

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