The Buick Enclave is a popular midsize SUV known for its smooth ride and powerful V6 engine. To keep it running reliably, proper maintenance of the transmission is essential. Using the correct fluid type and filling it to the proper capacity helps ensure smooth shifting and long transmission life. In this guide, we’ll cover the transmission fluid capacity for the Buick Enclave across model years, the recommended fluid types, and the best replacement options.
Quick Facts
- 2008–2017 Buick Enclave: 6-speed automatic transmission (6T75)
- 2018–Present Buick Enclave: 9-speed automatic transmission (9T65)
- Transmission Fluid Capacity:
- 6-speed (6T75): ~11.4 quarts (10.8 liters) total; ~5.0–5.5 quarts on drain & fill
- 9-speed (9T65): ~11.4–12.9 quarts (varies by year); ~5.5–6.0 quarts on drain & fill
- Recommended Fluid:
- 6-speed: DEXRON-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid
- 9-speed: ACDelco GM Genuine Parts 10-9395 (ATF HP)
Best Transmission Fluids for Buick Enclave
- ACDelco DEXRON-VI ATF – OEM fluid for 2008–2017 Enclave models with the 6-speed transmission.
- ACDelco GM Genuine Parts ATF HP – OEM fluid for 2018+ Enclave models with the 9-speed transmission.
- Valvoline DEXRON-VI Full Synthetic ATF – Licensed alternative to ACDelco for the 6-speed.
- Castrol Transmax DEXRON-VI ATF – Affordable, OEM-approved option for older Enclaves.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Fluid
When servicing your Enclave’s transmission, keep these tips in mind:
- OEM Approval: Always choose fluids that meet DEXRON-VI (6-speed) or GM ATF HP (9-speed) specifications.
- Drain & Fill vs. Full Flush: A simple drain & fill replaces about 5–6 quarts; a full flush requires ~11–13 quarts.
- Service Interval: GM recommends checking ATF every 45,000 miles if used for towing or under severe driving conditions.
- Heat Protection: Full synthetic ATFs resist oxidation and protect better under high-heat conditions.
Detailed Product Reviews
ACDelco DEXRON-VI ATF
Who it’s for: Owners of 2008–2017 Buick Enclave with the 6-speed automatic.
- Key Benefits: Official OEM fluid, smooth shifting, excellent wear protection.
- Pros: OEM-approved, widely available, reliable.
- Cons: Higher cost compared to aftermarket brands.
Final Verdict: The safest choice for first-generation Enclave models. Check price on Amazon
ACDelco GM Genuine Parts ATF HP
Who it’s for: Owners of 2018+ Buick Enclave with the 9-speed automatic.
- Key Benefits: Designed for new-generation transmissions, ensures proper clutch engagement.
- Pros: OEM-specified, warranty safe, engineered for smooth performance.
- Cons: More expensive and less widely available than DEXRON-VI.
Final Verdict: The only fluid recommended for the 9-speed Enclave. Check price on Amazon
Valvoline DEXRON-VI Full Synthetic ATF
Who it’s for: Enclave owners looking for a budget-friendly alternative to OEM fluid.
- Key Benefits: Meets DEXRON-VI standards, excellent protection at a lower price.
- Pros: Affordable, widely available, reliable performance.
- Cons: Not OEM branded, but fully licensed.
Final Verdict: Great for 6-speed Enclaves when you want to save money. Check price on Amazon
Castrol Transmax DEXRON-VI ATF
Who it’s for: Owners of first-gen Enclaves needing affordable OEM-approved fluid.
- Key Benefits: Provides smooth shifting, long fluid life, GM-approved.
- Pros: Affordable, trusted brand, meets GM requirements.
- Cons: Not premium, but works perfectly fine.
Final Verdict: A reliable and cost-effective option. Check price on Amazon
Comparison Table
| Fluid | Spec | Best For | Amazon Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACDelco DEXRON-VI | DEXRON-VI | 2008–2017 Enclave (6-speed) | View Price |
| ACDelco ATF HP | GM ATF HP | 2018+ Enclave (9-speed) | View Price |
| Valvoline DEXRON-VI | DEXRON-VI | Budget-friendly 6-speed option | View Price |
| Castrol Transmax DEXRON-VI | DEXRON-VI | Affordable OEM-approved alternative | View Price |
FAQ
What transmission fluid does a Buick Enclave use?
2008–2017 models use DEXRON-VI ATF. 2018+ models with the 9-speed use GM ATF HP.
How much fluid does a Buick Enclave transmission hold?
The total system holds 11–13 quarts, but a drain & fill replaces about 5–6 quarts.
How often should I change the transmission fluid?
Every 45,000–60,000 miles under normal driving, or sooner under towing or severe conditions.
Can I mix aftermarket ATF with OEM fluid?
Yes, as long as the fluid is DEXRON-VI licensed (for 6-speed) or GM ATF HP approved (for 9-speed).
What happens if I overfill transmission fluid?
Overfilling can cause foaming, overheating, and damage. Always check fluid level correctly at the specified temperature.
Conclusion
The Buick Enclave requires DEXRON-VI ATF (2008–2017) or GM ATF HP (2018+). The total transmission capacity is about 11–13 quarts, but a simple drain & fill will replace around 5–6 quarts. For OEM reliability, stick with ACDelco fluids. For budget-friendly alternatives, Valvoline and Castrol offer licensed options. Choosing the right fluid and servicing regularly will keep your Enclave shifting smoothly for years. Get OEM ACDelco DEXRON-VI for your Enclave today.
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