2017 GMC Yukon Coolant Capacity & Type

The 2017 GMC Yukon holds approximately 16.7 quarts (15.8 liters) of coolant in its cooling system. This guide will provide detailed information on coolant specifications, capacities, maintenance, and common issues for your 2017 GMC Yukon.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity: Approximately 16.7 quarts (15.8 liters)
• OEM Coolant Spec: DEX-COOL (Orange/Red, OAT, GM standard GMW3420/GM6277M)
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 Pre-mix or 50/50 concentrate with distilled water

Capacity by Engine Option

The 2017 GMC Yukon was primarily offered with two engine options, both sharing a similar cooling system capacity.

Flush Interval

Maintaining the correct coolant and adhering to the recommended flush intervals is crucial for the longevity of your cooling system and engine.

• Normal Duty: Replace coolant every 5 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: If your vehicle is frequently used for towing, in extreme temperatures, or in dusty conditions, it's advisable to inspect your coolant more frequently and consider replacing it sooner, possibly around 3 years or 50,000 miles, depending on the severity of use.

Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate and up-to-date maintenance schedule specific to your vehicle.

How to Refill & Bleed

Refilling and bleeding the cooling system properly after a flush or repair is essential to prevent air pockets that can lead to overheating.

1. Drain Old Coolant: With the engine cool, place a drain pan under the radiator. Open the radiator drain cock (petcock) and remove the radiator cap to allow the system to drain completely.
2. Flush (Optional but Recommended): Close the drain cock and fill the system with distilled water. Run the engine with the heater on high until it reaches operating temperature. Let it cool, then drain. Repeat until the drained water is clear.
3. Refill with New Coolant: Close the drain cock. Slowly fill the overflow reservoir with the specified 50/50 DEX-COOL coolant mixture until it reaches the cold fill line. Continue filling until the radiator is full.
4. Bleed the System: Start the engine with the heater set to maximum heat and the fan on low. Leave the radiator cap off (or slightly loose if instructed by your owner's manual) and allow the engine to idle. As the engine warms up, air bubbles will escape. Watch the coolant level and add more as needed to maintain the "cold fill" line.
5. Burp the System: Squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses several times to help dislodge trapped air. You may see more bubbles escaping. Continue this process until no more air bubbles appear.
6. Final Check: Once the engine reaches operating temperature and no more bubbles are visible, install the radiator cap. Drive the vehicle and monitor the temperature gauge. After the engine has cooled, recheck the coolant level in the overflow reservoir and top off if necessary.

Some 2017 GMC Yukon models with the 6.2L engine may have a dedicated bleeder screw on one of the coolant lines near the throttle body or thermostat housing. If present, open this screw slightly during filling to aid in air removal until a steady stream of coolant emerges, then close it. Consult your service manual for exact locations.

Common Cooling System Issues for this Generation

Owners of 2017 GMC Yukon models and similar vehicles from this generation may encounter some common cooling system issues:

• Water Pump Leaks: The water pump is a common failure point. Signs include coolant leaks near the front of the engine, a grinding noise from the pump, or an overheating engine. Early detection can prevent more severe engine damage.
• Thermostat Failure: A stuck-open thermostat can cause the engine to run too cool, leading to inefficient operation and poor heater performance. A stuck-closed thermostat will cause rapid overheating. Both conditions require prompt attention.
• Cracked Radiator Hoses: Over time, rubber hoses can degrade, crack, or swell, leading to leaks. Regular inspection of hoses for signs of wear is important. Swollen or soft hoses should be replaced.
• Radiator Leaks: Radiators can develop leaks due to corrosion, impact damage, or fatigued plastic end tanks. Keep an eye out for visible coolant puddles under the vehicle or a sweet smell of coolant.
• Expansion Tank/Reservoir Leaks: The plastic coolant overflow reservoir can develop cracks, leading to slow coolant loss. Inspect the tank for hairline cracks or discoloration.
• Heater Core Issues: While less common, a clogged or leaking heater core can result in a lack of cabin heat or a sweet smell inside the vehicle, often accompanied by a foggy windshield. This can be a more labor-intensive repair.

Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more serious and costly engine damage. Regular coolant flushes with the correct DEX-COOL coolant help prevent many of these problems by keeping the system clean and free of corrosive deposits.

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