The 2001 Tahoe is equipped with the GM Oil Life System, which notifies you when to change the oil and filter, based on the engine revolutions and operating temperature--more pertinent parameters than the traditional 3,000-mile recommendation. Chevrolet recommends changing the oil filter and the oil at the same time, and change these by yourself will save you money. The only specialized tool you’ll need is an oil filter wrench.
Locate the eighth symbol (either digit or letter) of your vehicle identification number (VIN). This is the engine code. You’ll see the VIN through the lower right corner of the windshield, bolted to the dashboard (it is 17 digits long). The engine code will be either G, T, U or V.
Make sure to use an ACDelco oil filter matching the engine code: Unless the code is G, get a PF59 oil filter. Get PF454 if the engine code is G.
Purchase four quarts of "Starbust" SAE 5W-30 oil certified by the American Petroleum Institute for Gasoline Engines, as recommended by Chevrolet.
Buy an oil filter wrench to match the PF59 filter. Ask the retailer which wrench fits the filter, or read the packaging instructions for compatibility.
Let the engine idle five minutes. This heats the oil to help it drain. Even when heated, the oil takes 20 minutes to fully drain.
Let the engine cool a few minutes before going underneath the car.
Elevate the car while the engine cools. Blocks or a car lift are preferable to a car jack, as the car can roll off a jack. This step is optional, so don’t feel that you need to lift the car in order to access to the oil tank. If you do use a car jack though, place heavy bags on both sides of the rear tires (filled with salt or seed, for example). Slide some support under the car, next to the jack.
Unscrew the engine’s oil cap. It is located on the front of the engine top. Letting air in helps the oil drain faster and smoother.
Slide under the engine and place a drain pan beneath the drain bolt. You should see the drain bolt located at the bottom of the oil tank.
Take off the drain bolt with a crescent wrench. Don’t lose the washer.
Let the oil drain for 20 minutes. Screw the drain bolt back on.
Find the oil filter under the engine. It’s a baseball-sized cylinder, equal in height and in diameter.
Place the oil filter wrench over it and use your crescent wrench to loosen it. (An oil wrench filter is more of a vice than a wrench.)
Take out the seal (rubber O-ring) that goes between the engine and the filter. Wipe the oil filter contact area on the engine clean, removing any seal residue.
Cover the new seal (that came with the new filter) with oil. Place it in the filter contact area of the engine. Tighten the new filter over it by hand. When you feel resistance, use the oil filter wrench to tighten 2/3 of a turn more. Don’t over-tighten, as this can cause oil leaks.
Pour four quarts of oil into the engine where you took off the oil cap. Check the dipstick to check the oil level--overfilling can cause engine damage that Chevrolet doesn’t warranty.
Idle the engine in neutral again for five minutes, then check the oil filter and drain bolt for any leaks.
Lower the car off any supports.
Turn the ignition key to “Run,” without turning over the engine.
Press fully on the accelerator and release. Repeat two more times.
Verify that the “Change Engine Oil” light flashes for five seconds, confirming that you have successfully reset it.
