What kind of coolant does a 2016 Chevy Colorado take?
Choosing the right coolant for your vehicle is essential to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity. If you own a 2016 Chevy Colorado, understanding the type of coolant it requires can help you maintain your truck's cooling system and avoid costly repairs. In this article, we’ll dive into the specifics of the coolant recommended for this model and provide tips for proper maintenance.
Recommended Coolant for the 2016 Chevy Colorado
The 2016 Chevy Colorado is designed to use a specific type of coolant known as Dex-Cool. Dex-Cool is an orange-colored, long-life coolant that is engineered to work with GM vehicles, including the Chevy Colorado. This coolant is formulated to last up to 5 years or 150,000 miles under normal driving conditions, making it a reliable choice for your truck.
It’s important to avoid mixing Dex-Cool with other types of coolants, such as traditional green antifreeze, as this can lead to chemical reactions that may damage your cooling system. Always check your owner’s manual or consult a trusted mechanic if you’re unsure about the type of coolant to use.
Why Is Dex-Cool Important?
Dex-Cool offers several benefits that make it the ideal choice for your 2016 Chevy Colorado:
- Extended Lifespan: Dex-Cool is designed to last longer than traditional coolants, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Corrosion Protection: It helps prevent rust and corrosion in the engine and radiator, ensuring the longevity of your cooling system.
- Compatibility: Dex-Cool is specifically formulated for GM vehicles, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility with your truck’s components.
How to Check and Maintain Your Coolant
Proper maintenance of your coolant system is crucial to keep your 2016 Chevy Colorado running smoothly. Here are some steps to follow:
- Check Coolant Levels: Regularly inspect the coolant reservoir to ensure it’s filled to the recommended level. Low coolant levels can lead to overheating and engine damage.
- Inspect for Leaks: Look for any signs of coolant leaks under your vehicle or around the engine bay. Address leaks promptly to avoid further issues.
- Flush and Replace Coolant: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for flushing and replacing the coolant. For Dex-Cool, this is typically every 5 years or 150,000 miles.
- Use the Correct Mixture: When adding coolant, ensure you use a 50/50 mixture of Dex-Cool and distilled water unless you’re using pre-mixed coolant.
Final Thoughts
Using the correct coolant, such as Dex-Cool, is essential for maintaining the performance and reliability of your 2016 Chevy Colorado. Regularly checking and maintaining your coolant system can prevent overheating, corrosion, and costly repairs. If you’re ever in doubt about your vehicle’s coolant needs, don’t hesitate to consult your owner’s manual or reach out to a trusted auto repair professional.
At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help with all your car maintenance and repair needs. Feel free to contact us for expert advice or to schedule a service appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
What color coolant for Chevy Colorado?
What color coolant does 2021 Chevy Colorado use? It's important to understand that color doesn't matter. While most Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolants are frequently orange, yellow, red or purple, Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolants are orange and yellow.
Does Chevy use a 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.
What coolant is compatible with a Dex-Cool Chevy?
Prestone® Prime® DEX-COOL® Compatible Orange Antifreeze + Coolant - Prestone® Total Protection.
Where is the color code on a Chevy Colorado?
glove box
The trim code and exterior paint code for the Chevrolet Colorado are mentioned on the SPID sticker, typically found in the glove box.
Does it matter what coolant you put in your truck?
The type of coolant required by your vehicle can now vary by year, make, model, engine and even the country where the car was made. With so many factors in play, car owners need to know which type of engine coolant is right for their vehicle.
How do you check the coolant level on a Chevy Colorado?
To do this, locate your car's radiator. Opening up the radiator cap is not necessary to check your coolant level. Check the markings on the side of your radiator's reservoir to see if the coolant is at the “full” marking line. If it is, you're all good!
What color is Dexcool coolant?
orange
ACDelco Dex-Cool 50/50 Premix Coolant/Antifreeze is an orange, silicate and phosphate free, premium-grade coolant with a chemical composition that reduces breakdown of metal components in contact with the fluid.
What oil does a 2016 Chevy Colorado take?
The Proper Chevy Colorado Oil Type
As we mentioned earlier, late-model Colorado vehicles use 5W-30 synthetic oil.
Does Chevy take orange antifreeze?
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, ...
How much coolant does a 2016 Chevy Colorado take?
6 quarts (with filter).