Does Chevy use a special coolant?
When it comes to maintaining your Chevrolet vehicle, understanding the type of coolant it requires is essential for optimal performance and longevity. Coolant, also known as antifreeze, plays a critical role in regulating your engine's temperature and preventing overheating or freezing. But does Chevy use a special coolant? Let’s dive into the details.
Chevy's Recommended Coolant: Dex-Cool
Chevrolet vehicles are designed to use a specific type of coolant known as Dex-Cool. This orange or reddish-colored coolant is a long-life antifreeze that General Motors (GM) introduced in the mid-1990s. Dex-Cool is specially formulated to meet the needs of GM vehicles, including Chevrolet models, and is distinct from traditional green antifreeze.
Unlike conventional coolants, Dex-Cool is an Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant. It is designed to last longer and provide superior protection against corrosion and rust in aluminum and other engine components. GM recommends Dex-Cool for most of its vehicles, and using the wrong type of coolant can lead to performance issues or even damage to your engine.
Why Does Chevy Use Dex-Cool?
There are several reasons why Chevrolet vehicles are designed to use Dex-Cool:
- Extended Lifespan: Dex-Cool can last up to 5 years or 150,000 miles under normal driving conditions, reducing the need for frequent coolant changes.
- Corrosion Protection: Its OAT formula provides excellent protection against rust and corrosion, especially for aluminum engine components.
- Compatibility: Dex-Cool is specifically engineered to work with GM vehicle cooling systems, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
What Happens If You Use the Wrong Coolant?
Using the wrong type of coolant in your Chevy can lead to several problems, including:
- Reduced Cooling Efficiency: Non-compatible coolants may not provide the same level of heat transfer, leading to potential overheating.
- Corrosion and Damage: Mixing Dex-Cool with traditional green antifreeze can cause a chemical reaction that leads to sludge formation, clogging the cooling system and causing corrosion.
- Voided Warranty: Using an unapproved coolant may void your vehicle's warranty, leaving you responsible for repair costs.
How to Ensure You're Using the Right Coolant
To maintain your Chevy's cooling system, follow these tips:
- Check Your Owner's Manual: Always refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for the recommended coolant type and specifications.
- Look for Dex-Cool Labeling: When purchasing coolant, ensure the product is labeled as Dex-Cool or meets GM's specifications.
- Consult a Professional: If you're unsure about the type of coolant your Chevy needs, visit a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin's Autos for expert advice and service.
Conclusion
Yes, Chevy does use a special coolant—Dex-Cool. This long-life antifreeze is specifically designed for GM vehicles, including Chevrolet models, to provide superior performance and protection. Always ensure you're using the correct coolant to avoid potential issues and keep your vehicle running smoothly. If you have any questions or need assistance with your Chevy's cooling system, don't hesitate to reach out to Kevin's Autos for professional help!
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of coolant does a Chevy Silverado use?
It is recommended to use Dexcool, which is a type of hybrid organic acid technology (HOAT) coolant and typically a 50/50 mix of coolant and clean drinking water.
Do all GM vehicles use the same coolant?
Can I Use Any Type of Coolant In My Vehicle? We don't recommend it. All GM vehicles use a special type of coolant known as ACDelco® DEX-COOL®. This coolant is designed to last longer, resist corrosion better, and protect the engine better at high temperatures.
Why is Chevy coolant orange?
The orange coolants are organic acid technologies (OAT). These were created for newer vehicles that had more nylon and aluminum parts in them. OAT coolants use organic acids in order to prevent corrosion. Some people believe that they can mix the two.
Can I put GM coolant in a Chevy?
Prime Orange antifreeze+coolant is designed to work with these specific vehicles: All GM ® vehicles 1995 & newer/GM approved (GMC, Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac, Pontiac, Saturn, Oldsmobile, Hummer), most Ford ® vehicles 2011 – 2018 (Ford, Lincoln, Mercury) and most Chrysler ® vehicles 2013 & newer (Ram, Dodge, Jeep, ...
What color coolant does GMC use?
What color coolant does GMC use? It's crucial to understand that color doesn't matter. While most Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolants are normally orange, yellow, red or purple, Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolants are orange and yellow.
What kind of coolant does GM use?
PEAK® DEX-COOL® Antifreeze + Coolant is a factory -approved technology that contains a well-balanced mix of Organic Acid Technology (OAT) and corrosion inhibitors for complete protection of modern, high-performance GM vehicle engines.
What color is Chevy coolant?
If the vehicle is before 1996 then it is the green color coolant, ethylene glycol. Or if it is from later then Dex-cool (orange). “Dex-Cool is made up of combinations of different phosphates and silicates as well as an organic acid technology that helps minimize corrosion in aluminum engines.
Do chevys take special coolant?
Every vehicle manufacturer, including Chevrolet has developed its own coolant or requires a conspicuous coolant that is unique to particular years and models. There are many colors of coolants to help distinguish each including yellow, red, green, blue, purple and orange.
Why is GM coolant orange?
The orange coolants are organic acid technologies (OAT). These were created for newer vehicles that had more nylon and aluminum parts in them. OAT coolants use organic acids in order to prevent corrosion.
Can you use regular antifreeze in a Chevy?
You should NEVER use light duty coolant in a heavy duty engine, this will cause damage!
