2019 GMC Acadia Fluid Specs & Capacities

Quick Reference: 2019 GMC Acadia Fluid Specs

Fluid	Type/Specification	Capacity
Engine Oil (2.5L LCV I4)	SAE 0W-20 or 5W-20 full synthetic	5.0 quarts (4.7 L)
Engine Oil (3.6L LGX V6)	SAE 5W-30 full synthetic	6.0 quarts (5.7 L)
Engine Coolant	ACDelco Dex-Cool (Orange)	11.8 quarts (11.2 L)
Automatic Transmission Fluid	ACDelco DEXRON VI	11.6 quarts (11.0 L)
Transfer Case Fluid	75W-90 Synthetic Axle Lubricant	0.85 quarts (0.8 L)
Rear Differential Fluid	75W-90 Synthetic Axle Lubricant	0.85 quarts (0.8 L)
Brake Fluid	DOT 4	As needed
Power Steering Fluid	N/A (Electric Power Steering)	N/A
Windshield Washer Fluid	Good quality solvent	~1 gallon (3.8 L)

In-Depth Fluid Specifications

Engine Oil

For the 2019 GMC Acadia, the correct engine oil depends on which engine your vehicle is equipped with. Using the wrong viscosity or a non-certified oil can lead to reduced fuel economy, increased engine wear, and potential warranty issues.

• 2.5L LCV I4 Engine: This engine requires SAE 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil. If 0W-20 is not available, SAE 5W-20 can be used as a substitute, but it's recommended to switch back to 0W-20 at the next oil change. The oil must meet the GM dexos1 Gen 2 specification. Look for the dexos1 logo on the bottle. The capacity is 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with a filter change.

• 3.6L LGX V6 Engine: This engine requires SAE 5W-30 full synthetic motor oil. This oil must also meet the GM dexos1 Gen 2 specification. The capacity for the V6 is 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters) with a filter change.

Notes: Always use a new, high-quality oil filter during each oil change. Do not overfill the engine, as this can cause oil aeration and damage. GM's Oil Life Monitoring (OLM) system will tell you when to change the oil, but a good rule of thumb is not to exceed 7,500 miles or one year.

Engine Coolant (Antifreeze)

The 2019 Acadia uses a specific type of Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant. Using the wrong type can cause corrosion and damage to the cooling system.

• Type/Specification: ACDelco Dex-Cool Antifreeze/Coolant (Orange). This is a silicate-free and phosphate-free OAT coolant.
• Capacity: The cooling system holds approximately 11.8 quarts (11.2 liters).
• Mixture: It should be mixed in a 50/50 ratio with clean, deionized or distilled water for protection down to -34°F (-37°C).

Pitfalls: Never mix Dex-Cool with other coolant types, such as conventional green (IAT) or hybrid (HOAT) coolants. Mixing can cause the coolant to gel, leading to blockages and severe engine overheating. If you are unsure what is in your system, a complete flush and fill is the safest option.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

The 2019 Acadia is equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission that requires a specific low-viscosity fluid.

• Type/Specification: ACDelco DEXRON VI Automatic Transmission Fluid. This is the only recommended fluid.
• Capacity: A full system fill is approximately 11.6 quarts (11.0 liters), but a typical drain-and-fill procedure will only replace a portion of this (usually 5-6 quarts).

Notes: Do not use "universal" or "multi-vehicle" transmission fluids. The use of non-licensed DEXRON VI fluid can lead to poor shift quality and transmission damage. Transmission fluid service intervals can vary, but many technicians recommend a drain-and-fill every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for preventative maintenance.

Transfer Case & Differential Fluid (AWD Models)

For All-Wheel Drive (AWD) models, the transfer case (also called Power Takeoff Unit or PTU) and rear differential require a high-quality gear lubricant.

• Type/Specification: SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Axle Lubricant meeting GM spec 9986115. This is used for both the front transfer case and the rear differential.
• Capacity:
  • Transfer Case: Approximately 0.85 quarts (0.8 liters).
  • Rear Differential: Approximately 0.85 quarts (0.8 liters).

Notes: These components are often neglected. Given the small fluid capacities, it is critical to keep them full and clean. Check for leaks during every oil change. Service intervals are often longer, but it's wise to replace the fluid every 50,000 miles, especially if you tow or live in a severe climate.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air over time. This moisture lowers the boiling point and can cause corrosion in the brake lines and calipers.

• Type/Specification: DOT 4 Brake Fluid from a sealed container.
• Capacity: The system should be kept full. A full flush typically requires about 1-2 quarts.

Notes: GM specifies DOT 4 for the 2019 Acadia. While DOT 3 is technically compatible, it has a lower boiling point and is not recommended. Never use DOT 5 (silicone-based) fluid, as it is incompatible with the system's seals. It's best practice to flush the brake fluid every 2-3 years, regardless of mileage.

Power Steering Fluid

The 2019 GMC Acadia is equipped with an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. It does not use hydraulic fluid, so there is no reservoir to fill or fluid to change.

Windshield Washer Fluid

• Type/Specification: Use any good-quality, commercially available windshield washer solvent. In colder climates, use a fluid with antifreeze properties to prevent freezing.
• Capacity: The reservoir holds approximately 1 gallon (3.8 liters).

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