2021 GMC ACADIA 354

GMC Acadia/Acadia Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-14608671) - 2021 - CRC - 10/26/20
Vehicle Care 277
When to Add Engine Oil
2.0L L4 Turbo Engine
2.5L L4 Engine
3.6L V6 Engine
If the oil is below the cross-hatched area at
the tip of the dipstick and the engine has
been off for at least 15 minutes, add 1 L
(1 qt) of the recommended oil and then recheck the level. See
“Selecting the Right
Engine Oil” later in this section for an
explanation of what kind of oil to use. For
engine oil crankcase capacity, see Capacities
and Specifications 0359.
Caution
Do not add too much oil. Oil levels above
or below the acceptable operating range
shown on the dipstick are harmful to the
engine. If the oil level is above the
operating range (i.e., the engine has so
much oil that the oil level gets above the
cross-hatched area that shows the proper
operating range), the engine could be
damaged. Drain the excess oil or limit
driving of the vehicle, and seek a service
professional to remove the excess oil.
See Engine Compartment Overview 0271 for
the location of the engine oil fill cap.
Add enough oil to put the level somewhere
in the proper operating range. Push the
dipstick all the way back in when through.
Selecting the Right Engine Oil
Selecting the right engine oil depends on
both the proper oil specification and
viscosity grade. See Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants 0354.
Specification
Use full synthetic engine oils that meet the
dexos1 specification. Engine oils that have
been approved by GM as meeting the
dexos1 specification are marked with the
dexos1 approved logo. See
www.gmdexos.com.
Caution
Failure to use the recommended engine
oil or equivalent can result in engine
damage not covered by the vehicle
warranty.

GMC Acadia/Acadia Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-14608671) - 2021 - CRC - 10/26/20
Vehicle Care 279
How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System
Reset the system whenever the engine oil is
changed so that the system can calculate
the next engine oil change. To reset the
system:1. Display the REMAINING OIL LIFE on the DIC. See Driver Information Center (DIC)
(Base) 0115 or
Driver Information Center (DIC) (Midlevel
and Uplevel) 0117.
2. Press and hold
Von the DIC while the
Oil Life display is active. The oil life will
change to 100%.
If the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message
comes back on when the vehicle is started,
the engine oil life system has not been
reset. Repeat the procedure.
Automatic Transmission Fluid
It is not necessary to check the transmission
fluid level. A transmission fluid leak is the
only reason for fluid loss. If a leak occurs,
take the vehicle to the dealer and have it
repaired as soon as possible.
Change the fluid at the intervals listed in
Maintenance Schedule 0346, and be sure to
use the transmission fluid listed in
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 0354.
Caution
Use of the incorrect automatic
transmission fluid may damage the
vehicle, and the damage may not be
covered by the vehicle warranty. Always
use the correct automatic transmission
fluid. See Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants 0354.
If you need to check the transmission fluid
level, take the vehicle to your dealer.
Engine Air Filter Life System
If equipped, this feature provides the engine
air filter’s remaining life and best timing for
a change. The timing to change an engine
air filter depends on driving and
environmental conditions.
When to Change Engine Air Filter
When the Driver Information Center (DIC)
displays a message to replace the engine air
filter at the next oil change, follow this
timing.
When the DIC displays a message to replace
the engine air filter soon, replace the engine
air filter at the earliest convenience. The system must be reset after the engine
air filter is changed.
If the DIC displays a message to check the
engine air filter system, see your dealer.
How to Reset Engine Air Filter Life
System
To reset:
1. Place the vehicle in P (Park).
2. Display the Air Filter Life on the DIC. See Driver Information Center (DIC) (Base)
0115 or
Driver Information Center (DIC) (Midlevel
and Uplevel) 0117.
3. Press
pto move to the Reset/Disable
display area. Select Reset then press
V.
4. Press
Vto confirm to reset.
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
The engine air cleaner/filter is in the engine
compartment on the passenger side of the
vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview
0 271 for location.

GMC Acadia/Acadia Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-14608671) - 2021 - CRC - 10/26/20
288 Vehicle Care
Checking Brake Fluid
With the vehicle in P (Park) on a level
surface, the brake fluid level should be
between the minimum and maximum marks
on the brake fluid reservoir.
There are only two reasons why the brake
fluid level in the reservoir may go down:
.Normal brake lining wear. When new
linings are installed, the fluid level goes
back up.
.A fluid leak in the brake hydraulic system.
Have the brake hydraulic system fixed.
With a leak, the brakes will not
work well.
Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap
and the area around the cap before
removing it.
Do not top off the brake fluid. Adding fluid
does not correct a leak. If fluid is added
when the linings are worn, there will be too
much fluid when new brake linings are
installed. Add or remove fluid, as necessary,
only when work is done on the brake
hydraulic system.
{Warning
If too much brake fluid is added, it can
spill on the engine and burn, if the
engine is hot enough. You or others could
be burned, and the vehicle could be
damaged. Add brake fluid only when
work is done on the brake hydraulic
system.
When the brake fluid falls to a low level,
the brake warning light comes on. See Brake
System Warning Light 0108.
Brake fluid absorbs water over time which
degrades the effectiveness of the brake fluid.
Replace brake fluid at the specified intervals
to prevent increased stopping distance. See
Maintenance Schedule 0346.
What to Add
Use only GM approved DOT 3 brake fluid
from a clean, sealed container. See
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 0354.
{Warning
The wrong or contaminated brake fluid
could result in damage to the brake
system. This could result in the loss of
(Continued)
Warning (Continued)
braking leading to a possible injury.
Always use the proper GM approved
brake fluid.
Caution
If brake fluid is spilled on the vehicle's
painted surfaces, the paint finish can be
damaged. Immediately wash off any
painted surface.
Battery - North America
The original equipment battery is
maintenance free. Do not remove the cap
and do not add fluid.
Refer to the replacement number on the
original battery label when a new battery is
needed. For replacement of the battery, see
your dealer.
Stop/Start System
The vehicle has a Stop/Start system to shut
off the engine to help conserve fuel. See
Stop/Start System0215.

GMC Acadia/Acadia Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-14608671) - 2021 - CRC - 10/26/20
Vehicle Care 337
Caution
Towing the vehicle from the rear could
damage it. Also, repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty. Never
have the vehicle towed from the rear.
Do not tow the vehicle from the rear.
Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Locks
Locks are lubricated at the factory. Use a
de-icing agent only when absolutely
necessary, and have the locks greased after
using. See Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants 0354.
Washing the Vehicle
To preserve the vehicle's finish, wash it
often and out of direct sunlight.
Caution
Do not use petroleum-based, acidic,
or abrasive cleaning agents as they can
damage the vehicle's paint, metal,
or plastic parts. If damage occurs, it
would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Approved cleaning products can
be obtained from your dealer. Follow all
manufacturer directions regarding correct
product usage, necessary safety
precautions, and appropriate disposal of
any vehicle care product.
Caution
Avoid using high-pressure washes closer
than 30 cm (12 in) to the surface of the
vehicle. Use of power washers exceeding
8 274 kPa (1,200 psi) can result in
damage or removal of paint and decals.
If using an automatic car wash, follow the
car wash instructions. The windshield wiper
and rear window wiper, if equipped, must
be off. Remove any accessories that may be
damaged or interfere with the car wash
equipment.
Rinse the vehicle well, before washing and
after, to remove all cleaning agents
completely. If they are allowed to dry on
the surface, they could stain.
Dry the finish with a soft, clean chamois or
an all-cotton towel to avoid surface
scratches and water spotting.

GMC Acadia/Acadia Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-14608671) - 2021 - CRC - 10/26/20
340 Vehicle Care
blades. Bugs, road grime, sap, and a buildup
of vehicle wash/wax treatments may cause
wiper streaking.
Replace the wiper blades if they are worn or
damaged. Damage can be caused by
extreme dusty conditions, sand, salt, heat,
sun, snow, and ice.
Weatherstrips
Apply weatherstrip lubricant on
weatherstrips to make them last longer, seal
better, and not stick or squeak. Lubricate
weatherstrips at least once a year. Hot, dry
climates may require more frequent
application. Black marks from rubber
material on painted surfaces can be removed
by rubbing with a clean cloth. See
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants0354.
Tires
Use a stiff brush with tire cleaner to clean
the tires.
Caution
Using petroleum-based tire dressing
products on the vehicle may damage the
paint finish and/or tires. When applying a
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
tire dressing, always wipe off any
overspray from all painted surfaces on
the vehicle.
Wheels and Wheel Trim
Use a soft, clean cloth with mild soap and
water to clean the wheels. After rinsing
thoroughly with clean water, dry with a
soft, clean towel. A wax may then be
applied.
Caution
Chrome wheels and chrome wheel trim
may be damaged if the vehicle is not
washed after driving on roads that have
been sprayed with magnesium chloride or
calcium chloride. These are used on roads
for conditions such as dust and ice.
Always wash the chrome with soap and
water after exposure.
Caution
To avoid surface damage on wheels and
wheel trim, do not use strong soaps,
chemicals, abrasive polishes, cleaners,
(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
or brushes. Use only GM approved
cleaners. Do not drive the vehicle through
an automatic car wash that uses silicon
carbide tire/wheel cleaning brushes.
Damage could occur and the repairs
would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Brake System
Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for
proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks,
chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear
and rotors for surface condition. Inspect all
other brake parts.
Steering, Suspension, and Chassis
Components
Visually inspect steering, suspension, and
chassis components for damaged, loose,
or missing parts or signs of wear at least
once a year.
Inspect power steering for proper electrical
connections, binding, cracks, chafing, etc.
Visually check constant velocity joint boots
and axle seals for leaks.

GMC Acadia/Acadia Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-14608671) - 2021 - CRC - 10/26/20
Service and Maintenance 345
Service and Maintenance
General Information
General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 345
Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346
Special Application Services
Special Application Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 351
Additional Maintenance and Care
Additional Maintenance and Care . . . . . . 351
Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and
Parts
Recommended Fluids andLubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 354
Maintenance Replacement Parts . . . . . . . 355
Maintenance Records
Maintenance Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 357
General Information
Your vehicle is an important investment.
This section describes the required
maintenance for the vehicle. Follow this
schedule to help protect against major repair
expenses resulting from neglect or
inadequate maintenance. It may also help to
maintain the value of the vehicle if it is
sold. It is the responsibility of the owner to
have all required maintenance performed.
Your dealer has trained technicians who can
perform required maintenance using genuine
replacement parts. They have up-to-date
tools and equipment for fast and accurate
diagnostics. Many dealers have extended
evening and Saturday hours, courtesy
transportation, and online scheduling to
assist with service needs.
Your dealer recognizes the importance of
providing competitively priced maintenance
and repair services. With trained technicians,
the dealer is the place for routine
maintenance such as oil changes and tire
rotations and additional maintenance items
like tires, brakes, batteries, and wiper blades.
Caution
Damage caused by improper maintenance
can lead to costly repairs and may not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Maintenance intervals, checks,
inspections, recommended fluids, and
lubricants are important to keep the
vehicle in good working condition.
Do not have chemical flushes that are not
approved by GM performed on the
vehicle. The use of flushes, solvents,
cleaners, or lubricants that are not
approved by GM could damage the
vehicle, requiring expensive repairs that
are not covered by the vehicle warranty.
The Tire Rotation and Required Services are
the responsibility of the vehicle owner. It is
recommended to have your dealer perform
these services every 12 000 km/7,500 mi.
Proper vehicle maintenance helps to keep
the vehicle in good working condition,
improves fuel economy, and reduces vehicle
emissions.

GMC Acadia/Acadia Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-14608671) - 2021 - CRC - 10/26/20
352 Service and Maintenance
.Trained dealer technicians have the
diagnostic equipment to test the battery
and ensure that the connections and
cables are corrosion-free.
Belts
.Belts may need replacing if they squeak
or show signs of cracking or splitting.
.Trained dealer technicians have access to
tools and equipment to inspect the belts
and recommend adjustment or
replacement when necessary.
Brakes
Brakes stop the vehicle and are crucial to
safe driving.
.Signs of brake wear may include chirping,
grinding, or squealing noises, or difficulty
stopping.
.Trained dealer technicians have access to
tools and equipment to inspect the brakes
and recommend quality parts engineered
for the vehicle.
Fluids
Proper fluid levels and approved fluids
protect the vehicle’s systems and
components. See Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants 0354 for GM approved fluids.
.Engine oil and windshield washer fluid
levels should be checked at every fuel fill.
.Instrument cluster lights may come on to
indicate that fluids may be low and need
to be filled.
Hoses
Hoses transport fluids and should be
regularly inspected to ensure that there are
no cracks or leaks. With a multi-point
inspection, your dealer can inspect the hoses
and advise if replacement is needed.
Lamps
Properly working headlamps, taillamps, and
brake lamps are important to see and be
seen on the road.
.Signs that the headlamps need attention
include dimming, failure to light, cracking,
or damage. The brake lamps need to be
checked periodically to ensure that they
light when braking.
.With a multi-point inspection, your dealer
can check the lamps and note any
concerns.
Shocks and Struts
Shocks and struts help aid in control for a
smoother ride.
.Signs of wear may include steering wheel
vibration, bounce/sway while braking,
longer stopping distance, or uneven
tire wear.
.As part of the multi-point inspection,
trained dealer technicians can visually
inspect the shocks and struts for signs of
leaking, blown seals, or damage, and can
advise when service is needed.
Tires
Tires need to be properly inflated, rotated,
and balanced. Maintaining the tires can save
money and fuel, and can reduce the risk of
tire failure.
.Signs that the tires need to be replaced
include three or more visible treadwear
indicators; cord or fabric showing through
the rubber; cracks or cuts in the tread or
sidewall; or a bulge or split in the tire.
.Trained dealer technicians can inspect and
recommend the right tires. Your dealer
can also provide tire/wheel balancing
services to ensure smooth vehicle
operation at all speeds. Your dealer sells
and services name brand tires.

GMC Acadia/Acadia Denali Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/
Mexico-14608671) - 2021 - CRC - 10/26/20
354 Service and Maintenance
Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Parts
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
Fluids and lubricants identified below by name or specification, including fluids or lubricants not listed here, can be obtained from your dealer.Usage Fluid/Lubricant
Automatic Transmission DEXRON-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid. Engine Coolant 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and use only DEX-COOL Coolant. See Cooling
System 0281.
Engine Oil Engine oil meeting the dexos1 specification of the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco
dexos1 full synthetic is recommended. See Engine Oil0276.
Hood Latch Assembly, Secondary Latch, Pivots, Spring Anchor, and Release Pawl Lubriplate Lubricant Aerosol or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2, Category LB
or GC-LB.
Hydraulic Brake System DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Key Lock Cylinders, Hood and Door Hinges Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube. See your dealer. Windshield Washer Automotive windshield washer fluid that meets regional freeze protection requirements.