2017 Chevrolet Tahoe Is Leaking Oil

Identifying the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
80% chance it's the
Oil System Components
0%
20% chance it's the
Engine Gaskets
The most common reasons a 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A worn or damaged oil pump or filter can lead to low oil pressure, resulting in inadequate lubrication and potential engine damage.
  • Engine Gaskets: A worn or damaged engine gasket can lead to oil or coolant leaks, resulting in engine overheating or loss of lubrication.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe is leaking oil?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Oil pans don't wear out or break like other parts, they generally only need to be replaced because of external damage from an accident or an improperly tightened drain plug. The main symptom you will experience is an oil leak underneath the engine of your car. The oil that leaks from a damaged oil pan will range from dark brown to dark black. If the leak is large enough or occurs for long enough the oil level will be low enough to turn the oil pressure or low oil level warning light on.

An oil leak may be noted on the ground where the vehicle is parked. However, many vehicles have plastic trays underneath the engine that may catch leaking oil and conceal the leak. In such cases, a low oil level, a burning oil smell, or even smoke from oil burning in the engine bay may be noted.

»MORE: Signs of a bad oil pan gasket

A bad oil level sensor may cause a false reading of the engine oil level. The oil level warning light may illuminate even when the oil level (checked manually) is within an acceptable range. The warning light may also come on and off intermittently if the sensor is faulty. An error code may be sent to the PCM and a check engine light may come on the dashboard as well if the sensor is bad.

The engine oil pressure warning light will come on if the engine oil pressure is low, or if the oil pressure sensor is faulty. In either case, engine power may be reduced significantly. The check engine light may also illuminate, and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe, and how can they be diagnosed?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start with a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle's undercarriage and engine bay, looking for any signs of oil accumulation or puddles beneath the vehicle. This initial step can often reveal the leak's location. Next, check the oil level; a significant drop may indicate a leak that needs immediate attention. Cleaning the engine can also be beneficial; by removing any existing oil residue, you can run the engine and observe for new leaks, making it easier to pinpoint the source. For a more precise diagnosis, consider using UV dye, which can be added to the oil and traced with a UV light to identify the leak's origin. If these methods do not yield results, a pressure test can be conducted to further investigate the oil system. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address oil leaks, ensuring your Tahoe remains in optimal condition.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe, it's crucial to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One frequent issue is a worn or damaged oil pan gasket, which can lead to oil seepage over time. Similarly, valve cover gasket leaks are prevalent, as these gaskets can deteriorate and allow oil to escape from the engine. Another potential source of leaks is the oil filter housing gasket, which can fail and result in oil leaking within the engine bay. Additionally, the rear main seal, located at the back of the engine, can wear out and cause leaks at the rear, while oil cooler line leaks can occur if the lines transporting oil to and from the cooler become damaged. Addressing these leaks promptly is essential to prevent engine damage and maintain the vehicle's performance, making regular inspections and maintenance vital for any DIY enthusiast looking to keep their Tahoe in top shape.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. An oil leak can significantly reduce the oil levels in your engine, leading to inadequate lubrication of vital components. This lack of lubrication can cause severe wear and tear, ultimately resulting in costly engine damage. Moreover, neglecting an oil leak can lead to overheating, which poses a serious risk of engine failure. The situation becomes even more critical when considering safety; leaking oil can drip onto hot engine parts, creating a fire hazard. Therefore, it is essential to act swiftly and address any signs of an oil leak to safeguard both your vehicle's performance and your safety on the road.

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