The 2018 Chevy Trax uses Dex-Cool, GM's orange extended-life engine coolant (OAT).
Dex-Cool is designed for aluminum engines common in GM vehicles. It should meet GM specification GMW14651 and is typically sold as GM Dex-Cool or an approved equivalent. The Trax can use a pre-diluted 50/50 mix or a concentrate that you dilute with distilled water; replacement intervals generally run about five years or 150,000 miles, but always confirm with the owner's manual and local regulations for coolant disposal.
Coolant type and compatibility
Know what to use and why: Dex-Cool orange OAT coolant is intended to protect GM engines from corrosion and overheating, and it should not be mixed with traditional green silicate-based coolants. Use Dex-Cool or a GM-approved Dex-Cool-compatible product that meets GM specification to avoid deposits and potential damage.
What is Dex-Cool?
Dex-Cool is an ethylene glycol-based extended-life coolant using organic acid technology (OAT). It typically lasts longer than conventional green coolant—around five years or 150,000 miles—depending on driving conditions and service history.
Before listing the essentials, note that the Trax requires coolant that is specifically approved by GM. Using an unapproved alternative can affect cooling performance and vehicle warranties.
- Dex-Cool orange, long-life coolant designed for GM engines (spec meets GM GMW14651)
- GM Original Equipment Dex-Cool or a GM-approved equivalent that meets the same specification
- 50/50 pre-diluted mix or concentrate mixed with distilled water to 50/50
- Color typically orange; do not mix Dex-Cool with non-OAT or green coolant
- Avoid mixing coolant types; if switching, perform a coolant system flush to prevent deposits
In summary, the correct coolant for the 2018 Trax is Dex-Cool orange OAT that complies with GM's specification. Always use a GM-approved product and follow mixing guidelines and disposal rules.
How to service or replace the coolant
When performing coolant replacement or top-offs, follow these best-practice guidelines to ensure proper protection and cooling system integrity.
- Purchase GM Dex-Cool meeting GM spec GMW14651, or an approved Dex-Cool-compatible long-life coolant
- Decide between pre-diluted 50/50 or concentrate; if concentrate, mix with distilled water to achieve 50/50
- Make sure the engine is completely cold before opening the radiator cap and reservoir
- Check the coolant reservoir level and top off to the proper cold-fill line if needed
- Run the engine to operating temperature with the radiator cap on (careful when opening to check level again), then recheck coolant levels and top off if needed
- Dispose of used coolant safely at an approved recycling facility; do not pour down a drain or on the ground
Following these steps ensures proper cooling system health and helps prevent overheating and corrosion.
If you are not comfortable performing coolant work, seek service from a qualified technician to avoid risk of burns or engine damage.
Summary
The 2018 Chevy Trax requires Dex-Cool orange extended-life coolant (OAT) that meets GM specification. Use GM Dex-Cool or a GM-approved equivalent, maintain a 50/50 mix when diluting concentrates, and follow the owner's manual for replacement intervals and disposal guidelines. Proper maintenance protects engine longevity and cooling-system performance.