2016 GMC Yukon Coolant Capacity & Type

The 2016 GMC Yukon cooling system capacity varies slightly by engine, but generally holds around 16.3-16.7 quarts (15.5-15.8 liters) of coolant.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity: 16.3 - 16.7 quarts (15.5 - 15.8 liters)
• OEM Coolant Spec: Dex-Cool (Orange, OAT - Organic Acid Technology, GM 6277M)
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 Pre-mix or 50/50 concentrate with distilled water

Capacity by Engine Option

Flush Interval

General Motors recommends the following coolant flush intervals for your 2016 GMC Yukon using Dex-Cool coolant:

• Normal Duty: Every 5 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: While not explicitly defined by GM as "severe duty" for coolant, if your vehicle experiences prolonged periods of towing, extensive idling, or operation in extremely hot/cold climates, it's advisable to consider a more frequent inspection or earlier flush. Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

How to Refill & Bleed

Properly refilling and bleeding the cooling system in your 2016 GMC Yukon is crucial to prevent air pockets that can lead to overheating. Here's a general procedure:

1. Safety First: Ensure the engine is completely cool before starting. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
2. Drain: Loosen the radiator drain petcock (usually located at the bottom of the radiator on one side) and remove the radiator cap. Catch the old coolant in a suitable drain pan. Some models may have an engine block drain plug, which allows for a more complete drain. For a full flush, consider flushing with distilled water until clear.
3. Close Drain: Once drained, close the radiator petcock and replace any engine block drain plugs.
4. Refill: Begin filling the cooling system through the radiator cap opening with the specified Dex-Cool 50/50 pre-mixed coolant. If using concentrate, mix with distilled water to a 50/50 ratio first.
5. Bleed Air: Leave the radiator cap off. Start the engine and let it run with the heater on full blast and the fan on low. This helps open the heater core and circulate coolant. As the engine warms up, the thermostat will open, and coolant will begin to flow through the system. You may see air bubbles escape from the radiator fill neck.
6. Maintain Level: Continuously monitor the coolant level in the radiator and top off as needed. Squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses to help dislodge any trapped air.
7. Surge Tank: Once the coolant level stabilizes and no more air bubbles are visible, replace the radiator cap. Fill the coolant surge tank (also known as the expansion tank or reservoir) to the "COLD FILL" line.
8. Final Check: After a test drive, allow the engine to cool down completely and recheck the coolant level in the surge tank. Top off if necessary.

There is no specific bleed screw on the 2016 GMC Yukon cooling system; the "self-burping" design, along with proper refilling techniques, is generally sufficient. For a professional flush or if you suspect persistent air pockets, a vacuum-fill tool can be very effective.

Common Cooling System Issues (2015-2020 GMT K2XX Platform - includes 2016 Yukon)

The GMT K2XX platform, which includes your 2016 GMC Yukon, has some known cooling system characteristics and potential issues:

• Water Pump Leaks: Water pump failures, often manifesting as leaks from the weep hole, are not uncommon on these engines as they age. Listen for groaning noises and visually inspect for coolant drips.
• Radiator Leaks: Radiators can develop leaks, particularly around the plastic end tanks where they crimp to the aluminum core. White or colored crusty residue is a tell-tale sign.
• Thermostat Issues: A failing thermostat can lead to either an engine that runs too cold (stuck open) or overheats (stuck closed). Dash temperature gauge fluctuations are a good indicator.
• Coolant System Hoses: Over time, hoses can harden, crack, or soften, leading to leaks. Visually inspect all hoses for wear and tear.
• Collapsed Hoses: A failing radiator cap or excessive vacuum in the system can sometimes lead to radiator hoses collapsing once the engine cools. This is less common but worth noting.
• Improper Coolant: Using incorrect coolant (non-Dex-Cool or mixing different types) can lead to accelerated corrosion, sludge formation, and damage to seals and gaskets. Always use the specified Dex-Cool coolant.

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