

These actions will avert the problems associated with Dexcool or any other coolant product. In addition, completely flush and refill the system every two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. Whether you are running Dexcool (the orange stuff) or ethylene glycol (the green stuff), inspect the coolant level and the condition/protection of the coolant at every oil change. Here's the bottom line when it comes to cooling system maintenance. So what are the guidelines on maintaining engine coolant? There were class action suits against GM on this issue, and GM reached settlement agreements with some owners beginning in 2008. Overall, numerous cooling system problems have been attributed to the use of this controversial product, although GM firmly stands behind it.

Rust builds up in the system, inhibiting coolant flow, which causes overheating. The acid eats away at head gaskets and intake gaskets. Cooling systems that use Dexcool exhibit more acid buildup and rust in the system when the coolant level gets low and oxygen is allowed to enter the system. It's supposed to last 5 years or 150,000 miles, but there have been problems with this coolant. In the 1990s, GM introduced an engine coolant called Dexcool. GM suggests flushing Dexcool for the first time at 150,000 miles. If I have Dexcool in my car, can I leave it in for the life of the car? Head gaskets blow, heads warp, and the engine suffers major damage. The water pump overheats and fails due to a lack of lubricant in the coolant. The coolant stops flowing through the system, clogs up coolant passageways and water jackets, radiators, and heater cores. The coolants chemically react and form a gel rather than a liquid. What exactly happens when these coolants are mixed? To guard against major engine failure, read on. There are some coolants that claim compatibility with Dexcool, but I would rather err conservatively and add what the system is supposed to take rather than gamble. When mixed together they form a gel-like substance that stops coolant flow, and consequently, the engine overheats. The green and orange coolants do not mix. This is one of those questions usually asked after the fact, and usually engine damage has already occurred. Can I mix green coolant with orange coolant? What is coolant?Ĭoolant (sometimes referred to as antifreeze or radiator fluid) is used to regulate your engine temperature and prevent it from overheating. And in mixing any antifreeze with water for a 50/50 mix, the use of distilled water is highly recommended. On GM's own consumer site, the debate regarding its Dexcool antifreeze continues. Our store works with Pentosin, Genuine, Mopar, Driving Racing Oil, AISIN, and many other leading suppliers that pay a lot of attention to their products' quality.Editor's Note: This article was originally posted in 2009. Antifreeze is able to lower the freezing point of the mixture, as much as raise the boiling point, protecting your engine. When you change your auto's coolant, you should mix water and antifreeze to create a 50-50 blend. If you are searching for quality antifreeze, our online store has a great variety of products to meet all of your requirements.

When it comes to replacing the coolant, it will be useful to flush the cooling system. Over time, this important liquid can begin to degrade, and you need to change it according to your auto manufacturer's recommendation. Antifreeze prevents your engine’s cooling system from being frozen as well as keeps the motor from boiling over. This fluid is circulated under the hood to maintain the temperature of your auto's key components, including the engine. Just like you need to change your car's brake or transmission fluid and motor oil, antifreeze also should be replaced from time to time.
