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Automobile Enthusiasts

Kennah

(14,465 posts)

2. It's my understanding that one cannot discern between coolants by color

Reply to TwilightZone (Reply #1)

Wed Feb 7, 2024, 09:05 PM

Feb 2024

The color is just dye, there's no industry standard, and different manufacturers use different colors for different formulations. Even if it's the same formulation and the same color, different manufacturers' products could be incompatible.

Apparently no way to test, easily or inexpensively, what coolant is in the vehicle.

If you buy a used vehicle, it's safe to get the coolant exchanged professionally so that you know.

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Highlight:

When did the automotive coolant war commence? [View all] Kennah Feb 2024 OP

Had a chat with our independent guy about this a while back. TwilightZone Feb 2024 #1

It's my understanding that one cannot discern between coolants by color Kennah Feb 2024 #2

That's my understanding as well. TwilightZone Feb 2024 #3

My understanding is... OneBlueDotS-Carolina Feb 2024 #4

Certainly not like the good old days Old Crank Feb 2024 #5

If you want to be 100% sure, go to the dealership parts department(s) for your vehicles Best_man23 Feb 2024 #6

IMPORTANT Notes on OAT-type Coolants (Former Technician here) Best_man23 Feb 2024 #7

The Caravan leaks, but it's a Dodge so par for the course Kennah Feb 2024 #8