2020 GMC Acadia: Fluid Type Specs

Quick Reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil	ACDelco dexos1 Gen 3 0W-20 or 5W-30	5.0 qts (2.0L) / 6.0 qts (3.6L)
Engine Coolant	ACDelco DEX-COOL (Orange)	9.1 qts (2.0L) / 11.8 qts (3.6L)
Transmission Fluid	ACDelco DEXRON VI ATF	Varies (service fill)
Transfer Case Fluid	GM 19351860	~1.0 qt
Front & Rear Differential	GM 75W-90 gear oil	~1.0 qt each
Brake Fluid	DOT 4	As needed
Power Steering	N/A (Electric Power Steering)	N/A
Washer Fluid	-30°F All-Season	2.5 gal
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)	N/A (Gasoline only)	N/A

Engine Oil

The 2020 GMC Acadia requires ACDelco dexos1 Gen 3 0W-20 or 5W-30 full synthetic motor oil. The 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder takes 5.0 quarts, while the 3.6L V6 takes 6.0 quarts. Always verify the fill capacity in your owner's manual. The dexos1 Gen 3 specification is critical for preventing low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) in modern GDI engines. Using a non-dexos1 oil can lead to engine damage and void your warranty. Do not use heavier weights like 10W-30 or 10W-40.

Engine Coolant

The Acadia uses ACDelco DEX-COOL, an orange-colored OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant. The 2.0L engine requires 9.1 quarts and the 3.6L engine requires 11.8 quarts of a 50/50 mixture with distilled water. Never mix DEX-COOL with other coolant types, such as HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or IAT (Inorganic Acid Technology). Doing so can cause the coolant to gel and clog your cooling system, leading to overheating and expensive repairs. If you are unsure what type of coolant is in your vehicle, it is best to have the system flushed and refilled by a qualified technician.

Transmission Fluid

All 2020 Acadia models use a 9-speed automatic transmission that requires ACDelco DEXRON VI automatic transmission fluid. Do not use "universal" or multi-vehicle ATF, as these fluids may not meet the specific frictional requirements of the 9T65 transmission. Using the wrong fluid can lead to shift problems, transmission damage, and a costly overhaul.

Transfer Case and Differential Fluid

The AWD Acadia uses a single-speed transfer case that requires GM 19351860 transfer case fluid. The front and rear differentials both use 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. It is important to check the fluid levels in these components at regular intervals and to have them changed according to the manufacturer's recommended service schedule.

Brake Fluid

The 2020 Acadia uses DOT 4 brake fluid. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. This moisture can lower the boiling point of the fluid, leading to a spongy pedal and reduced braking performance. For this reason, it is important to have your brake fluid flushed and replaced every 2-3 years. Never use DOT 3 or DOT 5 brake fluid in a system that requires DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid

The 2020 Acadia is equipped with an electric power steering (EPS) system and does not use any power steering fluid.

Washer Fluid

Use a quality all-season washer fluid with a freeze protection rating of at least -30°F. In warmer climates, you can use a washer fluid concentrate mixed with distilled water. Do not use tap water, as it can contain minerals that can clog your washer nozzles.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

The 2020 Acadia is only available with gasoline engines and does not require Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF).

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