2017 GMC Acadia Fluid Type & Capacity Specs

Quick Reference: 2017 GMC Acadia Fluid Specs

Fluid	Type/Specification	Capacity
Engine Oil	5W-30 Synthetic (dexos1 Gen 2)	5.0 qt (2.5L) / 6.0 qt (3.6L)
Engine Coolant	DEX-COOL (Orange, OAT)	9.3 qt (2.5L) / 11.8 qt (3.6L)
Automatic Transmission Fluid	DEXRON VI	10.6 qt (total fill)
Transfer Case Fluid (AWD)	DEXRON VI	~0.8 qt
Rear Differential Fluid (AWD)	75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil	~0.85 qt
Brake Fluid	DOT 3	As needed
Power Steering	Electronic Power Steering (EPS)	N/A
Windshield Washer Fluid	-30°F All-Season	1.1 gal

---

Engine Oil

For all 2017 Acadia engines, both the 2.5L 4-cylinder and the 3.6L V6, GM specifies a full synthetic 5W-30 motor oil meeting the GM dexos1® Gen 2 specification. Using an oil that meets this spec is critical for preventing Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI) in these direct-injected engines.

• Specification: API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-6A, and dexos1® Gen 2
• Viscosity: SAE 5W-30
• Capacity (with filter):
  • 2.5L LCV I4: 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters)
  • 3.6L LGX V6: 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters)
• Service Interval: Follow the Oil Life Monitor (OLM) system, but do not exceed one year between changes. For severe service (towing, frequent short trips, dusty conditions), consider changing more frequently, around every 5,000 miles.

Note: Always use a new, high-quality oil filter with each oil change. Do not use oils labeled only with older API specs like "API SN" without the dexos1 logo, as they may not offer the required protection.

Engine Coolant (Antifreeze)

The 2017 Acadia is factory-filled with ACDelco DEX-COOL® Antifreeze. This is an orange-colored, silicate-free Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant.

• Specification: GM 6277M DEX-COOL®
• Type: Orange, Silicate-Free OAT
• Mixture: Use a 50/50 mix of DEX-COOL® concentrate and distilled water. Pre-mixed formulations are recommended to ensure the proper ratio.
• Capacity:
  • 2.5L LCV I4: ~9.3 quarts
  • 3.6L LGX V6: ~11.8 quarts

Common Pitfall: Never mix DEX-COOL® with other coolant types, such as conventional green (IAT) or hybrid (HOAT) coolants found in other vehicles. Mixing can cause the coolant to gel, leading to blockages, overheating, and significant damage to the cooling system. If the system is ever filled with the wrong coolant, a complete flush is required.

Transmission Fluid

All 2017 Acadias are equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission that requires a specific low-viscosity fluid.

• Specification: DEXRON® VI Full Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid.
• Service Interval: GM recommends a fluid change at 45,000 miles for severe service conditions. For normal service, many owners opt for a drain-and-fill around 60,000-90,000 miles as preventative maintenance.

Note: This is not a simple DIY service for many. There is no traditional dipstick; fluid level is checked via a level control plug on the side of the transmission case while the vehicle is running and at a specific temperature. Total fill capacity is over 10 quarts, but a simple "drain and fill" procedure will only replace about 5-6 quarts. Never use "universal" or multi-vehicle ATFs. Only use licensed DEXRON® VI fluid.

Driveline Fluids (AWD Models)

Transfer Case (PTU) Fluid

For All-Wheel Drive models, the transfer case (Power Takeoff Unit) requires the same fluid as the transmission.

• Specification: DEXRON® VI Automatic Transmission Fluid
• Capacity: Approximately 0.8 quarts.
• Interval: Check every 45,000 miles under severe service. It's good practice to change this fluid every 50,000-75,000 miles.

Rear Differential Fluid

The rear differential on AWD models uses a synthetic gear oil to lubricate the ring and pinion gears.

• Specification: SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Axle Lubricant (GM Part #19300457 or equivalent meeting GL-5 spec).
• Capacity: Approximately 0.85 quarts.
• Interval: This is often considered a "lifetime" fluid by the manufacturer, but for longevity, especially if you live in a harsh climate or tow, changing it every 50,000-75,000 miles is wise.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air over time. This moisture lowers the boiling point of the fluid, which can lead to a soft pedal and reduced braking performance.

• Specification: DOT 3 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid.
• Service Interval: GM recommends replacing the brake fluid every 45,000 miles, regardless of time. A good rule of thumb is every 3 years.

Note: While DOT 4 fluid has a higher boiling point and is compatible with DOT 3 systems, it is also more hygroscopic and may need to be changed more frequently. For this vehicle, sticking with a high-quality DOT 3 fluid from a sealed container is the best practice.

Power Steering Fluid

The 2017 GMC Acadia is equipped with an Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system. It does not use any hydraulic fluid, so there is no reservoir to check or fluid to change.

Windshield Washer Fluid

While any commercial washer fluid will work, using a quality all-season mix rated for cold temperatures is recommended to prevent freezing in the winter.

• Type: All-Season, freeze protection to at least -20°F (-29°C).
• Capacity: Approximately 1.1 gallons (4.2 liters).

---

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.