2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Coolant Capacity & Type

The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 cooling system typically holds around 16.3 quarts (15.4 liters) of coolant, though this can vary slightly by engine. Maintaining the correct coolant type and level is crucial for engine longevity and performance.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity: Approximately 16.3 quarts (15.4 liters)
• OEM Coolant Specification: Dex-Cool (Orange/Red, OAT, GM Standard GMW3420)
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 Pre-Diluted or 50% Concentrate / 50% Distilled Water

Capacity by Engine Option

While the 16.3-quart figure is a good general estimate, smaller variations exist depending on the specific engine option in your 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate information for your vehicle's configuration.

Flush Interval

Adhering to the recommended flush interval helps prevent corrosion, maintain heat transfer properties, and extend the life of your cooling system components.

• Normal Duty: Replace engine coolant every 5 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: If your vehicle is frequently used for towing, in extreme temperatures, or in dusty conditions, it's wise to consider more frequent inspections and potentially earlier coolant replacement. Consult your service manual for severe duty recommendations.

How to Refill & Bleed

Properly refilling and bleeding the cooling system after a drain or flush is essential to prevent air pockets, which can lead to overheating. Always perform this procedure on a cold engine.

1. Drain: With a cold engine, carefully open the radiator drain petcock (or remove the lower radiator hose) and the radiator cap to allow the system to drain completely into a suitable container.
2. Close & Fill: Close the drain petcock or reattach the lower radiator hose. Begin filling the system slowly through the radiator cap opening with the specified Dex-Cool 50/50 mix.
3. Engine Start & Heat: Start the engine and set the heater to its highest temperature and fan speed (this opens the heater core valve to allow coolant circulation). Allow the engine to reach operating temperature.
4. Burp Air: As the engine warms up, continue to monitor the coolant level in the radiator and add more as needed. You may see air bubbles escaping. Squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses gently and repeatedly to help dislodge trapped air.
5. Check Level: Once the thermostat opens (you'll feel the lower radiator house get hot), the coolant level in the overflow reservoir should stabilize within the "COLD" and "FULL" marks. Top off as necessary.
6. Test Drive & Recheck: Take the vehicle for a short test drive, then allow it to cool completely. Recheck the coolant level in the overflow reservoir and top off if needed. Repeat this cycle until the level remains stable.

Some 2019 Silverado 1500 models may have a small bleed screw on the thermostat housing or a high point in the cooling system. If present, opening this screw during the filling process can help purge air more effectively. However, many modern systems are designed to self-bleed with patience during the filling process.

Common Cooling System Issues for this Generation

While the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a robust truck, certain cooling system issues have been noted in this generation (or similar GM trucks of the era):

• Water Pump Leaks: Water pump failures, often indicated by a coolant leak from the weep hole or a grinding noise, can occur. Regular inspection of the water pump area for pinkish-orange coolant stains is recommended.
• Radiator Leaks: Radiators can develop leaks, particularly at the plastic end tanks or where the core tubes meet the tanks. White or colored residue on the radiator fins can indicate a leak.
• Thermostat Issues: A failing thermostat can cause the engine to overheat (stuck closed) or run too cold (stuck open), leading to poor fuel economy and emissions.
• Heater Core Clogging: Over time, sediment or improper coolant mixtures can lead to heater core clogging, resulting in a lack of heat inside the cabin.
• Hose Degradation: Radiator and heater hoses can harden, crack, or soften over time, leading to leaks. Visually inspect hoses for swelling, cracks, or unusual softness.

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