Chevrolet Trailblazer Transmission Fluid

Chevy Trailblazer SS

The Chevy Trailblazer is a mid-size SUV that was first introduced in 2002. It is known for its spacious interior, impressive off-road capabilities, and strong V6 or V8 engine. 

The Trailblazer also offers a range of advanced safety and technology features, such as a rearview camera and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration. It is available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive options.

What Type of Fluid Does a Chevrolet Trailblazer Use?

Depending on the transmission the comes in your Chevrolet Trailblazer, the transmission fluid is pretty consistent. Since the Chevrolet Trailblazer has a 4l60e based transmission, it will take either Dexron 3 or Dexron 6

The great thing about  Dexron transmission fluid is that you can use Dex VI in older GM transmissions that call for Dex III. 

  • Backward compatible with previous Dexron automatic transmission fluids and can be used as a much-improved replacement for older vehicles/transmissions originally using previous Dexron fluids
  • Improved performance over previous Dexron fluids in: friction durability, viscosity stability, aeration and foam control, and oxidation resistance
  • Potential to enable improved fuel economy and longer transmission life
  • Provides for extended drain intervals. Provides consistent shift performance, even in extreme conditions.

Chevrolet Trailblazer Transmission Fluid Capacity

The fluid capacity of your Chevrolet Trailblazer depends on what automatic transmission you have. In most cases, your Chevrolet Trailblazer’s transmission fluid capacity is anywhere from 10-14 quarts. 

Here are the capacities by transmission that come in a Chevrolet Trailblazer 

  • 4l60e: 11.5 quarts

How To Check Chevrolet Trailblazer Transmission Fluid

Checking transmission fluid in a Chevrolet Trailblazer is simple and quick to do. It’s always recommended that you check transmission fluid when the vehicle is on and in park on a flat surface.

transmission fluid on dipstick showing correct levels

How To Add Transmission Fluid To Chevrolet Trailblazer

Adding transmission fluid to your Chevrolet Trailblazer is a done by filling transmission fluid through the transmission dipstick tube, which is located on the passenger side near the firewall.  

When adding transmission fluid to your Chevrolet Trailblazer, it is important to make sure you have the correct level, as mentioned before. 

Chevrolet Trailblazer Transmission Fluid Change

The beauty of the Chevrolet Trailblazer like most GM vehicles is that it is easy to maintain, making them great vehicles for the average DIYer.  The Chevrolet Trailblazer was designed for ease of use, making transmission fluid changes an easy task for the average weekend mechanic. 

This video below shows step by step how to change the transmission fluid on your Chevrolet Trailblazer.

How Often Should You Change Transmission Fluid In A Chevrolet Trailblazer?

The common automatic transmission fluid change interval for the Chevrolet Trailblazer is every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on condition of the fluid.  

For “severe” use such as towing often, hauling heavy weight, or sitting in stop and go traffic, it’s better to change the fluid every 30-45,000 miles. 

The best indicator to determine how often to change transmission fluid in your Chevrolet Trailblazer is by looking at the transmission fluid every so often to see what condition it’s in. In the fluid color chart below you will see how transmission fluid gets darker over time die to wear and overheating. 

Transmission Fluid Color Comparison chart

 

Chevrolet Trailblazer Transmission Fluid Temperature 

The ideal transmission temperature for your Chevrolet Trailblazer when fully warm is in the 150 – 180 degree range. This is a safe transmission temperature that will allow for tens of thousands of miles of fluid life.  

The transmission temperature chart below shows how long you can expect your Chevrolet Trailblazer’s transmission to last at a given temperature.

Transmission Fluid Temperature Chart

Get A Transmission Cooler For Your Chevrolet Trailblazer

Looking to lower the transmission fluid in your Chevrolet Trailblazer? Install a transmission cooler! Our helpful transmission cooler buyer’s guide gives you all the information you need to install a transmission cooler and find the right one for your needs.

In our recommendation, a medium sized plate and fin or stacked plate style cooler would be best for your Chevrolet Trailblazer to keep transmission temperatures down.