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Is mixing different coolants REALLY bad?
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OldSkodaDriver
New User
Sep 27, 2016, 8:12 AM
Post #1 of 7
(2034 views)
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Is mixing different coolants REALLY bad?
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I just topped up my Skoda with coolant: BLUECOL'u' clear.
It said:
'Universal top-up antifreeze & coolant'
'All makes - All Models'
'Will mix safely with all colours of antifreeze'
Then I dug out the manual which states:
'The same coolant (G12) (red in colour) MUST always be used for topping up.'
'Mixing different coolants can result in damage to the engine'
'Have the coolant replaced immediately'
Is this true?
Thanks.
2002
Skoda
Fabia
1.4
40,000 miles
(This post was edited by OldSkodaDriver on Sep 28, 2016, 1:28 AM)
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Discretesignals
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Sep 27, 2016, 8:36 AM
Post #2 of 7
(2026 views)
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Re: Is mixing different coolants REALLY bad?
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Our shop always uses what the manufacture recommends when it comes to coolant. Don't take any chances mixing different types of coolant because you don't know what kind of reactions they may have with each other and surely don't want to be responsible for engine damage.
If you had to top it off, have you checked for coolant leaks?
Since we volunteer our time and knowledge, we ask for you to please follow up when a problem is resolved.
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Sep 27, 2016, 8:46 AM
Post #3 of 7
(2024 views)
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Re: Is mixing different coolants REALLY bad?
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This vehicle isn't sold to the US where site is based but same basics I think. Red/Orange coolant sold here is usually named DexCool for GM products and colored to identify it. It does claim additives for long life and there was a problem with it at least at first - can argue that all day long.
Yes - you see colorless coolant stating can be added to any? Really - can't prove that myself?
Most antifreeze/coolant is Ethylene-Glycol based product with additives and color added. That should state that if mixed 50/50 or premixed should protect from freezing to -34F. Not one degree different than exactly that stated.
If another it would be of a different product or unknown to me. Read containers that they really do meet or exceed the specifications of you particular vehicle's requirements. If not I'd default to using what it lists exactly and naturally most will say only buy their brand named product at a dealer.
There are and have been different products you really shouldn't mix with each other is all I can say,
T
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OldSkodaDriver
New User
Sep 28, 2016, 1:31 AM
Post #4 of 7
(2010 views)
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Re: Is mixing different coolants REALLY bad?
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Thanks for replying.
I find it hard to imagine a major retailer selling a product that says it will 'mix safely with any antifreeze' if it does not.
The liability would be too much - no?
I don't want to ask a mechanic - as I'm sure they will recommend flushing the system and re-filling (I don't have a long standing relationship with a mechanic that I trust) as they will want the work.
I cant see any leaks. But there must be a tiny one somewhere.
(This post was edited by OldSkodaDriver on Sep 28, 2016, 1:33 AM)
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Sep 28, 2016, 5:05 AM
Post #5 of 7
(2000 views)
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Re: Is mixing different coolants REALLY bad?
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Do find the leak just mentioned. Products - "IF IT WILL SELL THEY WILL SELL IT!!" There's little morality in SOME automotive products - it fits, it works, it's guaranteed, pour in your oil engine restorer - never ends.
Buy important products from known makers to you that clearly state it's exactly right for your specific vehicle or pass on it.
Most things you do NOT have to go to a dealer just be sure of you sources. It's the reason you came by and a "Buyers Beware" world with a lot of stuff,
T
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Sep 28, 2016, 7:52 AM
Post #7 of 7
(1987 views)
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Re: Is mixing different coolants REALLY bad?
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I think you can actually buy this product as a joke example..............
> May not show below..........
OK - You may not get it. Blinker's are a slang word for directional lights that flash.
Seriously - there really has been organic, non toxic antifreeze for vehicles that I don't see anymore so just don't believe everything you might see,
T
(This post was edited by Tom Greenleaf on Sep 28, 2016, 7:54 AM)
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