Auto Advice
Question: What Anti-Freeze do I use?
Answer: Most people know that they have to change their anti-freeze from time to time. But which one does my car use? That is a very tricky part and a very important one for your car or truck. Mixing the wrong anti-freeze in your car could cause a very corrosive issue in your cooling system. So always make sure you are putting in the right kind of anti-freeze. Here are examples of some of the changes that have taken place over the years and why it is important that you make sure before you top off with anti-freeze that it is the correct one to use.
GM vehicles from 1980 and older used green anti-freeze all the way to 1996, when it changed to the new anti-freeze. So if you have a GM 1997 or newer just make sure you add the right one.
Chrysler vehicles from 1980 and older used green anti-freeze until 2001, and then changed to a new anti-freeze in 2002. So if you have a Chrysler vehicle from 2002 on, make sure you use the right anti-freeze.
Ford trucks and SUVs from 1980 and older used the green anti-freeze until 2002, so for models 2003 and up you will need to make sure you have the right anti-freeze. Special note: Ford cars used the green anti-freeze until 2003, so 2004 and up models should be getting the right antifreeze.
I just want to show you that it varies from cars to trucks and from one maker to the next. The point is very important, please make sure the right anti-freeze goes in your car. Also make sure you use a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze: 50 percent water and 50 percent anti-freeze. This will insure your car will cool its engine properly given all other systems are working right.
I hope this helps you when getting serviced or buying parts for your car or truck.
Send your questions to autoadvice@sierramountaintimes.com
-Charlie McReynolds
Master Automotive Technician