2016 GMC Acadia Coolant Capacity & Type

This 2016 GMC Acadia holds approximately 11.0 quarts (10.4 liters) of coolant.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity: 11.0 quarts (10.4 liters)
• OEM Coolant Spec: DEX-COOL (Orange/Red, OAT, GM6277M)
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 Pre-mix or 50/50 concentrate with distilled water

Capacity by Engine Option

The 2016 GMC Acadia was offered with a single engine option, the 3.6L V6 (LLT or LFX depending on trim, both have the same cooling capacity).

Flush Interval

GMC recommends the following coolant flush intervals for the 2016 Acadia with DEX-COOL coolant:

• Normal Duty: Every 5 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: While not explicitly stated as different for "severe duty" for DEX-COOL, it's always a good practice to inspect coolant more frequently (e.g., annually) if operating in extreme conditions (very hot climates, heavy towing, frequent stop-and-go traffic).

How to Refill & Bleed

Refilling and bleeding the cooling system on your 2016 GMC Acadia is an important step to ensure proper cooling and prevent overheating. Here's a general procedure:

1. Preparation: Ensure the engine is completely cool. Park the vehicle on a level surface. Wear appropriate safety gear (gloves, eye protection).
2. Drain Old Coolant (if flushing): Place a large drain pan under the radiator drain petcock (usually located on the bottom passenger side of the radiator). Open the petcock and remove the radiator cap to allow the system to drain completely. Some models may also have engine block drain plugs; consult a service manual for their exact location if performing a thorough flush.
3. Flush (Optional): If performing a full flush, close the drain petcock and refill the system with distilled water. Run the engine with the heater on high until it reaches operating temperature. Let it cool, then drain again. Repeat this process until the drained water runs clear. This ensures all old coolant and contaminants are removed.
4. Refill with New Coolant: Close the radiator drain petcock. Begin refilling the system slowly with the specified DEX-COOL 50/50 pre-mix coolant through the radiator filler neck. Fill until the coolant level reaches the bottom of the filler neck. Also, fill the coolant reservoir to the "COLD FILL" mark.
5. Bleeding Air: This is crucial. Start the engine with the radiator cap off (or loosely placed on top if splashing is an issue). Set the heater to its highest temperature and fan speed. Allow the engine to warm up to operating temperature. As the engine warms, air bubbles will escape from the radiator filler neck. You may need to gently squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses to help dislodge air pockets. Special Note: The 3.6L V6 engine in the Acadia is generally self-bleeding, but ensuring the front of the vehicle is slightly elevated can aid in air removal. Keep an eye on the coolant level in the radiator and top off as needed during this process.
6. Cooling Down & Final Check: Once no more air bubbles appear, and the cooling fans have cycled on and off a few times, replace the radiator cap. Turn off the engine and allow it to cool completely. Once cool, recheck the coolant level in the coolant reservoir and add more if necessary to the "COLD FILL" mark.
7. Monitor: Over the next few drive cycles, periodically check the coolant reservoir level and top off as needed. If you notice persistent low coolant levels or overheating, there may be a larger issue.

Common Cooling System Issues

Owners of the 2016 GMC Acadia (and similar GM vehicles with the 3.6L V6 and DEX-COOL) may encounter the following common cooling system issues:

• Water Pump Leaks: The water pump is a relatively common failure point on these engines, often manifesting as a coolant leak from the weep hole or around the pump housing. This can lead to overheating if ignored.
• Thermostat Housing Leaks: The plastic thermostat housing can become brittle and crack over time, leading to coolant leaks. Sometimes this is misdiagnosed as a water pump leak.
• Radiator Leaks: Radiators can develop leaks, particularly at the plastic end tanks where they meet the aluminum core. This can be due to age, road debris, or pressure cycling.
• Coolant Expansion Tank Leaks/Cracks: The plastic coolant reservoir (expansion tank) can also develop cracks, especially around hose fittings, leading to slow but persistent coolant loss.
• Heater Core Issues: While less common than external leaks, clogged or failing heater cores can result in a lack of cabin heat or a sweet smell inside the vehicle due to internal leaks.
• DEX-COOL Sludge (Older Issues): While largely addressed in later formulations of DEX-COOL, earlier versions had a reputation for forming sludge when mixed with conventional (green) coolants or when the system was not properly maintained. By 2016, this was less of a prevalent issue, but always ensure only DEX-COOL or compatible OAT coolant is used.

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