The 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L V8 is part of GM’s EcoTec3 engine family, designed for strong towing capability, fuel efficiency, and long-term durability. This engine uses advanced direct injection and variable valve timing, which makes choosing the correct engine oil extremely important for performance and reliability.
Using the correct oil type ensures proper lubrication of the lifters, timing components, and fuel-saving AFM system. This guide covers oil type, capacity, change interval, filter information, and oil change cost in detail.
2017 GMC Sierra 1500 5.3 Oil Type
The recommended oil type for the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L V8 is:
- SAE 0W-20 full synthetic oil (factory recommended for EcoTec3 engines)
- Must meet GM dexos1 Gen 2 specification
Some older guidance or aftermarket discussions mention 5W-30, but GM factory specification for most 2017 5.3L EcoTec3 engines is 0W-20 synthetic oil for best fuel economy and engine protection.
Best Choice: SAE 0W-20 full synthetic oil meeting GM dexos1 Gen 2 standard.
2017 GMC Sierra 1500 Oil Capacity
Oil capacity depends slightly on drivetrain and filter, but the 5.3L EcoTec3 engine follows a standard fill capacity.
Always recheck oil level after filling. Overfilling can affect AFM operation and cause performance issues in GM V8 engines.
Best Oil for GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L
High-quality full synthetic oil is essential for GM EcoTec3 engines due to direct injection heat, AFM lifter system, and towing stress.
Recommended Oil Brands
- Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy 0W-20
- ACDelco dexos1 Full Synthetic
- Castrol EDGE 0W-20
- Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic
- Pennzoil Platinum
Benefits of Synthetic Oil
- Better AFM lifter protection
- Reduced engine sludge buildup
- Improved fuel economy
- High-temperature stability
- Longer oil life
- Smoother engine operation
Oil Change Interval
GM recommends oil life monitoring, but real-world maintenance intervals for the 5.3L engine are:
2017 GMC Sierra 1500 Oil Change Cost
Oil change cost depends on service type, oil brand, and location.
- DIY Oil Change: $55 – $95
- Independent Workshop: $90 – $150
- Dealership Service: $150 – $220
Using premium dexos-certified synthetic oil slightly increases cost but helps protect AFM lifters and extends engine life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What oil does a 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 5.3 use?
It uses SAE 0W-20 full synthetic oil that meets GM dexos1 Gen 2 specification.
How much oil does a 5.3L Sierra take?
It takes approximately 8 quarts of oil with filter replacement.
Can I use 5W-30 instead of 0W-20?
Some users do, but GM recommends 0W-20 for best fuel economy and AFM system performance.
How often should oil be changed?
Every 7,500–10,000 miles normally, or sooner under heavy use or towing conditions.
What happens if oil is not changed regularly?
It can cause AFM lifter failure, sludge buildup, poor lubrication, and expensive engine damage.
Final Thoughts
The 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L performs best when maintained with dexos-certified 0W-20 full synthetic oil and regular service intervals. Proper oil maintenance is critical to protecting AFM lifters and ensuring long engine life.