For a 2017 Chevy Silverado, the factory guidance generally requires Dexos1 Gen 2 oil with a viscosity of 0W-20 for most gasoline engines. Using 5W-30 is not the standard specification and should only be considered if GM explicitly approves it for your exact engine and climate. Always verify with the owner's manual or a GM dealer before deviating from the recommended oil.
Oil specifications for the 2017 Silverado
The official guidance for common 2017 Silverado gasoline engines emphasizes Dexos1 Gen 2 oils and the 0W-20 viscosity as the standard choice. The 5W-30 grade is not typically listed as the default specification for these engines.
- Dexos1 Gen 2 certification is required for the engine oils used in these Silverado models.
- Primary viscosity typically recommended is 0W-20 for normal operating conditions.
- 5W-30 is not presented as the standard viscosity for these engines in GM’s Dexos1 Gen 2 guidance.
- Using a non-approved viscosity may affect engine performance, fuel economy, and warranty coverage.
Bottom line: For the 2017 Silverado, sticking with 0W-20 Dexos1 Gen 2 is the safest, dealer-approved choice. Only consider 5W-30 if GM explicitly approves it for your engine and your climate, and you should revert to the recommended oil at the next maintenance interval.
What to do if 0W-20 is not available
If you cannot obtain 0W-20 Dexos1 Gen 2 immediately, the following guidance helps you navigate a temporary situation while protecting your engine:
- Consult your GM dealer or the owner's manual for any GM-approved alternative viscosities (if any) for your exact engine and climate.
- Do not substitute with non-Dexos oils or with lubricants that are not explicitly approved for Dexos1 Gen 2 engines.
- If you must use a different viscosity temporarily, plan to return to 0W-20 Dexos1 Gen 2 at the next oil change and monitor engine performance closely.
- Avoid mixing different oil brands or viscosities in the same system, especially with Dexos-qualified oils.
Conclusion: The recommended course is to use 0W-20 Dexos1 Gen 2 as soon as possible and treat any alternative viscosities as temporary exceptions only with explicit GM approval.
Warranty and maintenance considerations
Using an oil that does not meet GM’s Dexos1 Gen 2 specification or deviating from the labeled viscosity can potentially affect warranty coverage and long-term engine protection. Always follow the vehicle’s manual and confirm any oil changes with an authorized GM service facility if you’re unsure about a non-standard viscosity.
Practical guidance by engine and climate
In typical climates, 0W-20 Dexos1 Gen 2 provides reliable cold-start protection and fuel economy benefits for the 2017 Silverado’s engines. For extreme temperatures or unusual driving conditions, defer to GM’s official guidance via the owner’s manual or a Chevrolet service adviser.
Summary
For a 2017 Chevy Silverado, the safest and most common choice is Dexos1 Gen 2 with 0W-20. 5W-30 is not the standard recommendation and should only be used if GM explicitly approves it for your specific engine and climate. Always verify the exact specification in the owner’s manual and consult a GM dealer if you’re unsure. Returning to the recommended 0W-20 Dexos1 Gen 2 oil at the next change helps maintain performance, economy, and warranty protection.