The GMC Canyon is a compact pickup truck that is produced by General Motors. It was introduced in 2004 and is currently in its third generation.
The Canyon is known for its powerful engines and rugged exterior, making it a popular choice for those who need a capable and reliable pickup truck for work or recreational activities.
It also offers a comfortable and spacious interior, as well as a variety of advanced technology features. Overall, the GMC Canyon is a versatile and capable pickup truck that offers a balance of power, comfort, and convenience.
Learn more about GMC Canyon transmission fluid maintenance to keep you on or off-road for as long as possible!
What Type of Fluid Does a GMC Canyon Use?
Depending on the transmission the comes in your GMC Canyon, the transmission fluid is pretty consistent. Since the GMC Canyon has a 4l60e, 6l50e, or 8l45 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.
These transmission fluids are common in most GM vehicles.
GMC Canyon Transmission Fluid Capacity
The fluid capacity of your GMC Canyon depends on what automatic transmission you have. In most cases, your GMC Canyon’s transmission fluid capacity is anywhere from 10-14 quarts.
Here are the capacities by transmission that come in a GMC Canyon
- 4l60e: 11.5 quarts
How To Check GMC Canyon Transmission Fluid
Checking transmission fluid in a GMC Canyon 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.
How To Add Transmission Fluid To GMC Canyon
Adding transmission fluid to your GMC Canyon 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 GMC Canyon, it is important to make sure you have the correct level, as mentioned before.
GMC Canyon Transmission Fluid Change
The beauty of the GMC Canyon like most GM vehicles is that it is easy to maintain, making them great vehicles for the average DIYer. The GMC Canyon 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 GMC Canyon.
Note: this video is for transmission fluid change on an 8l45
How Often Should You Change Transmission Fluid In A GMC Canyon?
The common automatic transmission fluid change interval for the GMC Canyon 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 GMC Canyon 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.
GMC Canyon Transmission Fluid Temperature
The ideal transmission temperature for your GMC Canyon 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 GMC Canyon’s transmission to last at a given temperature.
Get A Transmission Cooler For Your GMC Canyon
Looking to lower the transmission fluid in your GMC Canyon? 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 GMC Canyon to keep transmission temperatures down.
