In a 2018 Chevy Trax, you add coolant to the engine’s expansion/overflow reservoir, not directly into the radiator. The reservoir is a translucent bottle in the engine bay, usually on the passenger side near the radiator, with MIN and MAX marks and a cap labeled Engine Coolant. Use Dex-Cool or a Dex-Cool-compatible coolant and always wait for the engine to be cool before opening any cap.
locating the coolant reservoir
To top up, you first need to locate the reservoir. The expansion tank collects and supplies coolant as the engine heats and cools. On most Trax models it sits on the passenger side of the engine bay, near the front of the vehicle, and the cap is labeled Engine Coolant. It is not the windshield washer or other fluid reservoir.
Steps to locate and prepare the reservoir before topping up:
- Look for a translucent plastic bottle with MIN and MAX marks and a cap labeled Engine Coolant, typically on the passenger side near the radiator.
- Verify you’re looking at the coolant reservoir and not another fluid reservoir.
- Ensure the engine is completely cool before attempting to open the cap.
With the reservoir identified and prepared, proceed to check or top up as needed.
which coolant to use and how to fill safely
Using the correct coolant is essential. The 2018 Trax typically uses Dex-Cool (orange) extended-life coolant. Use Dex-Cool or a universal coolant that explicitly lists Dex-Cool compatibility. Do not mix different types of coolant, and always pour into the expansion reservoir, not the radiator itself.
Steps to fill safely:
- Choose Dex-Cool 50/50 premixed coolant, or a Dex-Cool compatible universal coolant. Do not mix incompatible types.
- With the engine cool, slowly remove the reservoir cap to relieve any residual pressure.
- Pour coolant into the reservoir until the level sits between the MIN and MAX marks.
- Replace the cap securely, start the engine, and allow it to reach operating temperature. Check for leaks and recheck the level once the engine cools again, topping up if necessary.
If the level continues to drop or you notice leaks, have the cooling system inspected by a qualified technician.
Summary
For a 2018 Chevy Trax, antifreeze belongs in the engine’s coolant reservoir, not the radiator. Use Dex-Cool or a compatible coolant, keep the level between the MIN and MAX marks, and always perform topping up only when the engine is cold. When in doubt, consult the owner's manual or a Chevy dealer for guidance.