How to Choose the Oil and Fluids for a Cadillac Escalade

Using the proper fluids and oils at regular intervals helps to lengthen the life of your Cadillac Escalade. These steps apply to all models years of the Escalade with a gasoline engine, from the introduction in 1999 onward, unless otherwise noted.

Instructions

1

Change your Cadillac Escalade's engine oil regularly, using 5W-30 or 10W-30 grades but never 20W-30; it's too thick. Mobil 1 synthetic oil is also appropriate for use in your Escalade, especially if you drive in very cold or very hot climates.

2

Make sure to use only DEXRON-III or VI (its replacement) transmission fluid in your Cadillac Escalade, because damage caused by using other transmission fluids could void your warranty. This applies to both manual and automatic transmissions.

3

Use only DEX-COOL silicate-free engine coolant in your Cadillac Escalade. The owner's manual carries a heavy warning that premature corrosion may result from using other coolants.

4

Fill your brake fluid reservoir only with DOT 3 brake fluid as necessary, from a clean, sealed bottle. While you're doing this be very careful not to spill any brake fluid on your car. If you do, rinse it away quickly or it will corrode through your paint.