Choosing the right coolant for your car is important to maintain the vehicles cooling system and protect the engine from damage. Here are some tips to help you choose the right coolant:
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Check your owners manual: The owners manual provides information on the type of coolant that is best to use in your vehicle. If you dont have a copy of your owners manual, you can most likely find the information you need online.
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Know the make, model, and year of your vehicle: The best engine coolant for your car depends on the vehicle type, age, and place of manufacture.
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Choose the right type of coolant: There are three main types of engine coolant: Inorganic Additive Technology (IAT), Organic Acid Technology (OAT), and Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT). IAT coolant is the traditional green coolant, while OAT coolant is usually orange or red. HOAT coolant is primarily orange and yellow and is common in Chrysler and Ford vehicles. Each automaker has unique requirements for engine coolants, so its important to use the product that meets the applicable specifications.
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Check the color: Use color as a guideline, but always make sure to read the bottle to validate the coolants compatibility with your car.
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Avoid mixing different types of coolant: Due to the complex chemical mechanisms designed into modern coolants, its never a good idea to mix two different types of coolant.
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Go to the dealership: The easiest way to make sure youre getting the right coolant for the job is to go to your cars dealership. Theyll sell the coolant for your specific make and model, and its guaranteed to be the correct one. Many times, the coolant is actually branded for the car youre going to put it in.
In summary, the best way to choose the right coolant for your car is to check your owners manual, know the make, model, and year of your vehicle, choose the right type of coolant, check the color, avoid mixing different types of coolant, and go to the dealership if youre unsure.