2020 GMC Acadia: Coolant Capacity & Type

The 2020 GMC Acadia has a total cooling system capacity that ranges from 6.0 to 11.8 quarts (5.7 to 11.2 liters), depending on the engine option.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity: 6.0 to 11.8 quarts (5.7 to 11.2 liters)
• OEM Coolant Specification: GM DEX-COOL® (Orange, OAT Chemistry, GM 6277M)
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 with deionized water (pre-mixed is recommended)

Capacity by Engine Option

The 2020 Acadia was offered with three different engines, each having a distinct cooling system capacity.

Flush Interval

Proper coolant maintenance is vital for the health of your Acadia's engine. The factory-fill DEX-COOL® coolant is a long-life formulation.

• Normal Service: General Motors recommends a coolant flush and replacement every 5 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• Severe Service: If the vehicle is operated under severe conditions—such as frequent towing, extensive idling, or use in extreme temperatures—it is wise to consider shortening this interval. Consult your owner's manual or a trusted technician for guidance.

How to Refill & Bleed

Topping off the coolant reservoir is straightforward, but a full refill after a flush requires bleeding the air out of the system to prevent overheating.

1. Safety First: Ensure the engine is completely cool before opening the cooling system pressure cap.
2. Use the Right Coolant: Use a pre-mixed 50/50 DEX-COOL® compatible coolant or mix concentrate with deionized water.
3. Fill Slowly: Slowly add coolant to the degas bottle (coolant reservoir) until it reaches the "Full Cold" mark.
4. Bleeding Procedure: These vehicles do not have traditional bleeder screws. The recommended procedure involves using a vacuum-fill tool (like the J-43691) to eliminate air pockets during the refill process. This is the most effective method to prevent airlocks.
5. Alternative Bleeding: If a vacuum tool isn't available, you can perform a series of heat cycles. After filling, leave the pressure cap loose on the reservoir, start the engine, and turn the heat to its highest setting. Let the engine idle until the thermostat opens (you'll feel the upper radiator hose get hot). As the coolant level drops, add more to keep it at the full line. Shut off the engine, let it cool completely, and re-tighten the cap. This method may need to be repeated to purge all the air.

Common Cooling System Issues

The second-generation Acadia (2017-present) has shown a few common issues to watch for:

• Water Pump Failure: The 3.6L V6 engine, in particular, can be prone to premature water pump failure. Symptoms include a coolant leak from the front-center of the engine, a whining noise, or overheating.
• Thermostat Issues: A failing thermostat can stick open (causing the engine to be slow to warm up and poor heater performance) or stick closed (leading to rapid overheating).
• Coolant Leaks: Radiators, heater hoses, and connections at the firewall are potential leak points. A sweet smell after driving or visible orange coolant residue are signs of a leak.

If you are experiencing any of these issues or are due for a coolant service, find a trusted shop on Repairius.