What coolant does a 2010 Cobalt take?
The 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt uses Dex-Cool long-life engine coolant (GM Dex-Cool), typically the orange 50/50 premixed formulation. Use GM-approved Dex-Cool and avoid mixing with conventional green coolant to prevent deposits and potential corrosion.
Specification and compatibility
Understanding what to buy and how it behaves helps ensure you keep the cooling system clean and effective. Dex-Cool is an Organic Additive Technology (OAT) coolant that GM specifies for many of its engines, including the 2010 Cobalt. Always select a product labeled Dex-Cool or Dex-Cool-compatible that meets GM specifications. Mixing Dex-Cool with non-Dex-Cool coolants can cause unusual deposits and reduced cooling performance.
- Dex-Cool Long-Life Engine Coolant (orange, OAT), GM-approved. Available as premixed (50/50) or concentrated (to be mixed with distilled water to 50/50).
- Do not use conventional green antifreeze in a Dex-Cool-equipped engine unless the product clearly states it is compatible with Dex-Cool and you follow the proper flushing procedure.
- If using concentrate, mix with distilled water to achieve a 50/50 ratio, then fill to the required level.
- Consult the owner’s manual for exact maintenance intervals and capacity guidance, and have coolant disposed of according to local environmental rules.
In practice, sticking with a GM-approved Dex-Cool formulation and maintaining a 50/50 mixture helps protect the cooling system, radiator, and heater core from corrosion and deposits. If you’re unsure about the current coolant in the system, a full flush before switching to Dex-Cool is generally recommended.
Replacement and top-off guidance
When topping off or performing a full drain-and-fill, follow these guidelines to maintain proper cooling system performance. The following steps are common for Dex-Cool systems and help prevent air pockets and leaks.
- Park the car on a level surface and ensure the engine is completely cool before opening the radiator or reservoir.
- Place a drain pan underneath the radiator drain valve and remove the radiator cap to relieve pressure.
- Drain the old coolant from the radiator and engine block completely. If your vehicle has a drain plug, use it as directed in the service manual.
- Flush the system if you are switching from a non-Dex-Cool coolant to Dex-Cool or if the old coolant appears contaminated.
- Fill with Dex-Cool 50/50 premixed, or mix concentrate with distilled water to achieve a 50/50 solution, and fill to the correct level.
- Bleed air from the system if required by the vehicle’s design (run the engine with the heater on high until the thermostat opens and the level stabilizes). Recheck the level and add as needed.
- Run the engine to operating temperature, check for leaks, and ensure the coolant level remains stable after the system cools.
Top-offs should use the same Dex-Cool formulation. If you discover the existing coolant is green or not Dex-Cool, consult a technician about flushing before refilling with Dex-Cool to avoid chemical incompatibilities.
Summary
For a 2010 Cobalt, use Dex-Cool long-life coolant—orange, GM-approved, and compatible with the vehicle’s cooling system. Opt for a 50/50 premixed solution or a concentrate mixed with distilled water to achieve 50/50. Do not mix Dex-Cool with conventional green coolant unless the system has been flushed and the product explicitly states compatibility. Always refer to the owner’s manual for exact capacity, preferred maintenance intervals, and proper disposal of old coolant. If in doubt, consult a qualified mechanic to ensure correct application and flushing procedures.
