Can two coolants be mixed?

If the coolant level reaches too low, it can cause many problems on your engine ! But be careful, you cannot replace the coolant with any other product! Here is a quick rundown of what fluid to use for topping up or pump coolant.

🚗 What is the composition of my coolant?

Warning: you may not know this, but there are many types of coolant. It's not easy to find! To begin with, know that in no case should water be used as a coolant.

Your coolant is made up of purified water, an anti-corrosion additive and antifreeze. This mixture allows you to lower the freezing point of the coolant and increase the temperature of its evaporation.

The easiest way is to choose the coolant according to the conditions in which you are driving. There are three types of coolant, each with a different tolerance for extreme temperatures:

• Type 1 fluid freezes below -15 ° C and evaporates at 155 ° C;
• Type 2 fluid freezes below -18 ° C and evaporates at 108 ° C;
• Type 3 fluid freezes below -35 ° C and evaporates at 155 ° C.

🔧 Can I mix two types of coolant?

Do you have a low coolant level and need to top up? Please note: Do not fill the expansion tank with any liquid!

In order not to damage the cooling system, the easiest way is to always top up with the same type of fluid. Of course, the liquid to be added must have the same color as the liquid already in the expansion tank.

Are you planning to start winter sports soon and want a more cold-resistant coolant? Type 3 fluid is best suited for very low temperatures.

But be careful not to mix it with Type 1 or 2 fluid. To change to Type 3 fluid, be sure to drain the coolant.

Mixing different types of fluids can clog your cooling system and radiator! The coolant will then become a kind of thick mud clogging up the small radiator tubes. Your engine will not be cooled enough and you could damage it.

🗓️ When should I change the coolant?

Except for exceptional changes due to vacation or relocation to an area that is much more exposed to freezing temperatures, you are still advised to change the coolant regularly. If you are going to a very cold place, your battery can also play a cruel joke on you, be sure to check it before your trip!

The service life of the coolant directly depends on how often you use the car:

• If you are a moderate driver (about 10 km per year), change the coolant on average every 000 years;
• If you drive more than 10 km a year, change it every 000 km on average.

You will understand that mixing several types of coolants is really not recommended. Therefore, if you want to enjoy winter sports in peace, replacement of the coolant will be mandatory.