If you found this article for your GMC Acadia Oil Change useful, make sure to check out our reviews on both sport cars and everyday drivers such as our 2023 Nissan Altima Test Drive!
Regular oil changes are essential to keep your vehicle running smoothly and to increase its longevity. One of the most important car maintenance tasks you can do for your 2007-2016 GMC Acadia is to change its oil regularly. Changing your car’s oil is a relatively easy process that you can do at home with the right tools and knowledge.
Here’s a walk-through to help you change the oil in your GMC Acadia:
(Note – This is specifically written for a 2012 model with the 3.6 V6 engine. The process should be the same to do an oil change on most GMC Acadia from 2007 through 2016. However, if you have any doubt, please consult your local mechanic for advice.)
Step 1: Gather the necessary tools and supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies. You will need a socket wrench set, an oil filter wrench, a drain pan, a funnel, and a new oil filter and oil. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and filter for your vehicle.
Step 2: Prepare your vehicle
To start the oil change process, turn on your car and let it run for a few minutes to warm up the oil. Then, turn off the engine and engage the parking brake. Open the hood and locate the oil filler cap. Remove the cap and set it aside.
Step 3: Locate the oil drain plug
Next, locate the oil drain plug. It is usually located on the bottom of the engine. Place the drain pan underneath the drain plug and use the socket wrench to loosen the plug. Be careful as the oil may be hot.
Step 4: Drain the old oil
Let the old oil drain completely into the drain pan. Once it has stopped dripping, wipe off the drain plug and replace it. Tighten the plug with the socket wrench but do not over-tighten it.
Step 5: Replace the oil filter
Use the oil filter wrench to loosen the oil filter. Once you have loosened it, remove it by hand. Take your new oil filter and apply a thin layer of oil around the gasket. This will help it to seal properly. Screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand.
Step 6: Add the new oil
Once the new oil filter is in place, you can begin adding the new oil. Check your owner’s manual to find out how much oil your vehicle needs. Use the funnel to pour the new oil into the oil filler hole. Once you have added the oil, replace the oil filler cap and close the hood.
Step 7: Check the oil level
Start your car and let it run for a few minutes. Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle. Then, use the dipstick to check the oil level. Add more oil if necessary.
In conclusion, changing the oil in your 2012 GMC Acadia is a simple and necessary maintenance task that you can easily do yourself. By following these steps, you can ensure that your car is running smoothly and reliably. Just be sure to dispose of the old oil properly and never dump it down a drain or on the ground.
Parts List
Parts and Tools You Will Need:
- New oil filter (personally we recommend K&N oil filters)
- 6 quarts of new oil (check owner’s manual for recommended type and weight)
- Oil filter wrench
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Rag or towel
- Oil filter drain tool (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Warm up the engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm up the oil. This will make it flow easier when you drain it.
- Locate the oil filter and oil pan: The oil filter is located under the engine and the oil pan is located underneath the oil filter.
- Drain the oil: Place the oil drain pan under the oil pan and loosen the oil pan plug using a wrench. Once the oil starts to drain, wait until it slows down to a drip, then replace the plug.
- Remove the oil filter: Using an oil filter wrench, turn the filter counterclockwise until it comes loose. Be sure to have a rag or towel handy to catch any excess oil.
- Prepare the new oil filter: Before installing the new oil filter, fill it with fresh oil to help lubricate the engine during startup. Make sure to lubricate the rubber gasket on the filter with some oil as well.
- Install the new oil filter: Screw the new oil filter on by hand until it is snug, then give it an additional quarter-turn to tighten it.
- Refill with new oil: Using a funnel, slowly pour 6 quarts of new oil into the oil filler hole. Check the oil level with the dipstick to ensure it’s at the proper level.
- Start the engine: After the oil has been refilled, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil.
- Check for leaks: Turn off the engine and check for any oil leaks around the oil filter and oil pan plug. Tighten them if necessary.
And that’s it! Changing the oil in a 2012 GMC Acadia is a relatively simple task that can help keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come. Be sure to check your owner’s manual for the recommended oil change interval and type of oil.
Want More Like This GMC Acadia Oil Change Walkthrough?
If you’re a car enthusiast or just love everything about cars, then our Car Nut Chronicles Newsletter is perfect for you. Our weekly newsletter delivers the latest news, insights, reviews, and features from the world of cars straight to your inbox. Whether you’re interested in classic cars, sports cars, or electric cars, our newsletter has something for everyone. You’ll also receive exclusive content and special offers that you won’t find anywhere else. By signing up for our newsletter, you’ll join a community of car enthusiasts and stay up-to-date on the latest trends, events, and developments in the world of cars. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to indulge your love of cars and join our Car Nut Chronicles Newsletter today!