2019 Chevrolet Equinox Fluid Specifications

2019 Chevrolet Equinox: Complete Fluid Specification Reference

Proper maintenance is the key to the longevity and reliability of your 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. Using the correct, factory-specified fluids is the most critical aspect of any service. Using the wrong fluid can lead to premature wear, poor performance, and even catastrophic component failure. This guide provides a comprehensive list of all factory-spec fluids, capacities, and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications for your Equinox.

Quick Reference Fluid Chart

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity (Approximate)
Engine Oil (1.5L Gas)	SAE 0W-20 API SN+ / dexos1 Gen 2	4.2 qt (4.0 L)
Engine Oil (2.0L Gas)	SAE 5W-30 API SN+ / dexos1 Gen 2	5.0 qt (4.7 L)
Engine Oil (1.6L Diesel)	SAE 5W-30 dexos2	5.3 qt (5.0 L)
Engine Coolant	GM DEX-COOL (OAT) / GM 6277M	7.9 - 8.5 qt (7.5 - 8.0 L)
Transmission Fluid (6-Spd)	GM DEXRON-VI	4.2 - 6.3 qt (Drain & Fill)
Transmission Fluid (9-Spd)	GM DEXRON HP (High Performance)	4.2 - 6.3 qt (Drain & Fill)
Transfer Case Fluid (AWD)	SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (GM 9986115)	0.8 qt (0.75 L)
Rear Differential Fluid (AWD)	GM 88863349 Gear Oil	1.0 qt (0.9 L)
Brake Fluid	DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid	As Required
Power Steering Fluid	N/A (Electric Power Steering)	N/A
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (Diesel)	API Certified ISO 22241	4.9 gal (18.5 L)
Windshield Washer Fluid	Commercial Washer Fluid	As Required

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Engine Oil

Your engine's lifeblood requires strict adherence to GM's dexos licensing program. Using non-licensed oils can void your warranty and lead to sludge and carbon buildup.

• 1.5L Turbo Gas Engine: This engine specifies SAE 0W-20 viscosity grade motor oil that is licensed and displays the dexos1 Gen 2 trademark (or a supersedeas specification like dexos1 Gen 3). Do not use other viscosities.
• 2.0L Turbo Gas Engine: The more powerful 2.0L gas engine requires a slightly heavier SAE 5W-30 viscosity grade, also meeting the dexos1 Gen 2 specification.
• 1.6L Turbo-Diesel Engine: Diesel engines have different needs. The 1.6L diesel requires SAE 5W-30 oil that meets the dexos2 specification, which is designed for modern diesel engines with emissions control systems.

Note: Always verify the fill level using the dipstick after an oil change. Capacities are for a standard change with a new filter.

Engine Coolant

The 2019 Equinox, like most modern GM vehicles, is factory-filled with GM DEX-COOL coolant. This is an orange-colored, long-life coolant based on Organic Acid Technology (OAT).

• Specification: GM 6277M
• Mixture: Use a 50/50 mixture of DEX-COOL concentrate and distilled water. Never use tap water, as its mineral content can cause scaling and corrosion within the cooling system.
• Pitfall: NEVER mix DEX-COOL with conventional green (IAT) or other types of coolants (e.g., HOAT). Mixing can cause the coolant to gel, leading to blockages, overheating, and expensive damage to the radiator, heater core, and water pump.

Transmission Fluid

This is a critical area where mistakes are common and costly. The 2019 Equinox used different transmissions depending on the engine and drivetrain. Using the wrong fluid can destroy a transmission in short order.

• 6-Speed Automatic (FWD Models with 1.5L Engine): These transmissions require DEXRON-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid. This is a specific synthetic fluid. DO NOT use older DEXRON-III or generic "multi-vehicle" fluids.
• 9-Speed Automatic (All AWD Models, FWD with 2.0L & 1.6L Diesel): These advanced transmissions require a very specific fluid: GM DEXRON HP (High Performance) Automatic Transmission Fluid. It is NOT the same as DEXRON-VI. Using DEXRON-VI in a 9-speed transmission can cause shift problems, shudder, and internal damage.

Note: Most of these transmissions do not have a traditional dipstick. Fluid level checks and fills are performed by technicians via a fill plug on the case. It is not considered a simple DIY service.

AWD System Fluids (Transfer Case & Rear Differential)

If your Equinox is an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) model, it has a transfer case (also called a Power Takeoff Unit or PTU) and a rear differential that require their own specific fluids.

• Transfer Case / PTU: This unit requires SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant. The OEM fluid meets GM spec 9986115. Do not use standard engine or transmission oil.
• Rear Differential: The rear differential does not use standard gear oil. It requires a special fluid, GM Part No. 88863349. Using standard 75W-90 gear oil can damage the clutches within the differential module.

Brake Fluid

Your Equinox's braking system requires DOT 3 hydraulic brake fluid, as specified on the master cylinder reservoir cap. While DOT 4 fluid has a higher boiling point, it is also more hygroscopic (absorbs moisture faster) and is not the recommended service fluid. For safety and performance, stick with high-quality DOT 3 from a sealed container.

Power Steering

The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. It uses an electric motor to assist in steering and does not have a hydraulic pump, hoses, or fluid. You will not find a power steering fluid reservoir or have any fluid to check or change.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) (1.6L Diesel Only)

If you own an Equinox with the 1.6L turbo-diesel engine, it is equipped with a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system to control emissions. This system requires Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF).

• Specification: Use DEF that is API certified and meets the ISO 22241 standard. The brand is not as important as the certification.
• Note: The DEF tank holds nearly 5 gallons and is filled via a port next to the diesel fuel filler neck. The vehicle will provide ample warning before the DEF tank runs empty.

Windshield Washer Fluid

For the windshield washer reservoir, any commercially available washer fluid is acceptable. In regions with freezing temperatures, be sure to use a winter-blend fluid with a low freezing point to prevent damage to the reservoir and lines.

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Using the correct fluids is the foundation of a long-lasting vehicle. When in doubt, consult your owner's manual or a certified professional. Find a trusted shop on Repairius.