27/11/2019
Your 2017 Chevrolet Volt LT: A Comprehensive Oil Change Guide
Embarking on a DIY oil change for your 2017 Chevrolet Volt LT is a rewarding way to maintain your vehicle's performance and longevity. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you have all the necessary information, from selecting the correct oil to safely completing the task. While the Volt is a hybrid, it still relies on an internal combustion engine that requires regular lubrication, making oil changes a crucial part of its upkeep.
Understanding Your Volt's Oil Requirements
The question of which oil to use in your 2017 Chevrolet Volt is paramount. Modern vehicles, including hybrids like the Volt, often specify the use of synthetic oil. Synthetic oil offers superior performance characteristics compared to conventional oil. It's engineered at a molecular level to resist breakdown under extreme temperatures and pressures, leading to longer intervals between changes and better engine protection. While some vehicles might accept a synthetic blend (a mix of synthetic and conventional) or even conventional oil, always consult your owner's manual for the definitive recommendation. Your manual will specify the correct viscosity grade, such as 0W-20, 0W-30, 5W-20, 5W-30, or 10W-30. Using the manufacturer-recommended oil is key to ensuring optimal engine function and avoiding potential warranty issues.
| Viscosity Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| 0W-20 | Excellent for cold starts, flows easily at low temperatures. |
| 0W-30 | Similar cold-start benefits to 0W-20, with slightly more viscosity when warm. |
| 5W-20 | Good all-around performance, suitable for a wide range of temperatures. |
| 5W-30 | A common choice, offering a balance of cold-weather protection and high-temperature stability. |
| 10W-30 | May be suitable in warmer climates or for older engines, but always check your manual. |
Essential Tools and Materials
Before you begin, ensure you have the following:
- New engine oil (correct viscosity and quantity as per your owner's manual)
- New oil filter (specifically for a 2017 Chevrolet Volt LT)
- Oil filter wrench (or an old serpentine belt for removal)
- Socket wrench set with the correct size socket for the drain plug
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Rags or shop towels
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- Jack and jack stands (if needed)
- Wheel chocks (for safety)
Step-by-Step Oil Change Procedure
- Prepare the Vehicle: Park your Volt on a level surface. If you need to raise the vehicle for better access, use a jack to lift the front of the car and then secure it with jack stands. Never rely solely on the jack. Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels for added safety.
- Locate Key Components: Pop the bonnet and locate the oil fill cap (usually marked with an oil can symbol), the dipstick (also often marked with an oil can symbol), the oil drain plug, and the oil filter. The drain plug is typically found at the lowest point of the oil pan, while the oil filter is usually screwed into the engine block.
- Drain the Old Oil: Place the oil drain pan directly beneath the oil drain plug. Using the appropriate socket wrench, carefully loosen and remove the drain plug. Be prepared for the hot oil to flow out. Allow the oil to drain completely, which may take several minutes.
- Replace the Drain Plug: Once the oil has finished draining, clean the drain plug and the surrounding area. Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it securely with the socket wrench. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can damage the oil pan.
- Remove the Old Oil Filter: Position the oil drain pan beneath the oil filter. If the filter is difficult to remove by hand, you can try wrapping an old serpentine belt around it to gain better leverage and unscrew it. Alternatively, use a dedicated oil filter wrench. Once loosened, carefully unscrew the filter. Some residual oil will likely spill out, so ensure the drain pan is positioned correctly.
- Prepare and Install the New Oil Filter: Before installing the new filter, apply a thin film of new engine oil to the rubber gasket on the top of the new filter. This helps create a good seal and makes future removal easier. Screw the new oil filter onto the engine block by hand until the gasket makes contact, then tighten it an additional 3/4 to a full turn, as recommended by the filter manufacturer. Do not overtighten.
- Add New Engine Oil: Locate the oil fill cap and remove it. Insert the funnel into the oil fill opening and pour in the recommended amount of new engine oil. Refer to your owner's manual for the exact capacity. It's often best to start with slightly less than the full amount and check the dipstick.
- Check the Oil Level: Replace the oil fill cap. Start the engine and let it run for a minute or two. This circulates the new oil and fills the new filter. Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle back into the oil pan. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and then pull it out again to check the oil level. The oil level should be between the 'MIN' and 'MAX' marks. Add more oil if necessary, checking the level again after each small addition.
- Final Checks and Cleanup: Inspect the drain plug and oil filter area for any leaks. If everything looks good, lower the vehicle if it was raised. Dispose of the old oil and filter responsibly at a local recycling centre or auto parts store. Clean up any spilled oil with rags.
Safety First: Protecting Yourself
Working on your vehicle, especially underneath it, requires a strong emphasis on safety. Always wear safety glasses when working under your car. Engine bays can contain various fluids, including battery acid, engine coolant, and brake fluid, all of which can cause serious harm to your eyes and skin. Wearing gloves will also protect your skin from oil and other automotive chemicals. Ensure your workspace is well-lit and that you have a clear understanding of safe jacking procedures before lifting your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How often should I change the oil in my 2017 Chevrolet Volt?Consult your owner's manual for the recommended oil change interval. This can vary based on driving conditions and the type of oil used. Generally, for synthetic oil, it could be anywhere from 7,500 to 10,000 miles, or once a year, whichever comes first.
- Can I use conventional oil in my Volt?While some older vehicles can use conventional oil, modern engines, especially those in hybrids, often benefit significantly from synthetic oil. Always refer to your owner's manual to confirm if conventional oil is an approved option for your 2017 Volt.
- What is the oil capacity for a 2017 Chevrolet Volt?The exact oil capacity will be listed in your owner's manual. It's crucial to use the correct amount of oil to prevent over or underfilling, both of which can damage the engine.
- Where can I find a good oil filter for my Volt?Reputable auto parts stores will stock oil filters specifically designed for the 2017 Chevrolet Volt. You can also find them online. Using a quality filter is as important as using quality oil.
- What if the oil filter is stuck?If you can't remove the filter by hand, an old serpentine belt can provide extra grip. If that fails, a dedicated oil filter wrench is a reliable tool for the job. Ensure you have the correct size wrench for a secure fit. By following these steps and prioritizing safety, you can confidently perform an oil change on your 2017 Chevrolet Volt LT, ensuring its engine remains well-lubricated and protected for many miles to come. Regular maintenance is the key to a healthy and reliable vehicle.
If you want to read more articles similar to 2017 Chevrolet Volt Oil Change Guide, you can visit the Maintenance category.