The 2020 Chevy Equinox uses Dex-Cool orange long-life coolant, typically mixed 50/50 with distilled water. You can buy premixed Dex-Cool or concentrate to mix yourself, but avoid mixing with non-Dex-Cool coolants.
In more detail, Dex-Cool is GM’s orange, organic acid technology (OAT) coolant designed for GM engines. It’s formulated to protect cooling system passages and minimize corrosion over a long service life. When adding or replacing coolant in a 2020 Equinox, use Dex-Cool that meets GM specifications and stick to a 50/50 mix with demineralized/distilled water. Do not mix Dex-Cool with conventional green coolant or with other brands unless the product explicitly states compatibility. Typical service intervals target about 5 years or 150,000 miles under normal conditions, but always consult the owner’s manual for the exact guidance for your vehicle.
Coolant type and compatibility
GM recommends Dex-Cool orange long-life coolant for the Equinox. The coolant should be either premixed 50/50 or concentrate that you dilute with demineralized or distilled water to reach a 50/50 mixture. It is important not to mix Dex-Cool with green (conventional) coolant or with other brands unless the product is clearly labeled as Dex-Cool/GM-compatible. If you’re unsure about a universal coolant, verify that it explicitly meets GM Dex-Cool specifications.
What to buy and how to mix
Before shopping or mixing, understand the essentials you’ll need for topping off or a full replacement approach.
- Dex-Cool orange long-life coolant (GM-approved) or a universal coolant clearly labeled as Dex-Cool-compatible that meets GM specifications.
- Demineralized or distilled water if you are using concentrate (do not use tap water to avoid mineral deposits).
- Premixed Dex-Cool 50/50 product for convenience, or concentrate you will dilute to 50/50 with the water mentioned above.
- Optional: a clean funnel and suitable container for mixing, plus protective gear if handling hot coolant (let the engine cool first).
Using the correct Dex-Cool product and proper dilution is essential to protect the cooling system and maintain warranty coverage. If you cannot locate Dex-Cool or a clearly compatible product, contact a GM dealer or a qualified shop for guidance.
Steps to top off or perform a coolant replacement
Below is a practical, step-by-step approach to topping off or replacing coolant in the Equinox.
- Ensure the engine is completely cool before opening the cooling system to avoid burns or pressure release.
- Locate the coolant reservoir and the radiator cap if your model requires accessing the radiator as part of a drain and fill.
- If topping off, pour Dex-Cool into the reservoir until the level reaches the "FULL" or "MAX" line. Use premixed Dex-Cool to simplify the process.
- If performing a drain and fill, drain the old coolant following the service manual, then close drains and refill with a 50/50 Dex-Cool mixture (premixed or concentrate diluted with demineralized water).
- Start the engine and let it reach operating temperature with the heater on to help bleed air from the system, then check for any air pockets or leaks.
- Recheck the reservoir level after the engine cools again and add more Dex-Cool if needed to reach the proper level.
- Dispose of old coolant properly at a recycling center or service shop, and wipe up any spills, as Dex-Cool is toxic and should not be disposed of with household waste.
After completing the process, monitor the cooling system for leaks and periodically check the level over the next few days to ensure the system has properly bled and is maintaining the correct level.
Summary
For a 2020 Chevy Equinox, the recommended coolant is Dex-Cool orange long-life, used in a 50/50 mix with distilled or demineralized water. Use Dex-Cool or a GM-approved Dex-Cool-compatible coolant, avoid mixing with green or non-approved products, and follow the owner's manual for maintenance intervals and bleeding procedures. When in doubt, rely on an authorized GM service provider to ensure proper specification and service.