Is it okay to mix coolants?

Technical Discussions
1

I’ve been doing some research on coolant types for my car, and I’m a bit confused about whether it’s okay to mix different kinds of coolant. I’ve heard various opinions, and I want to make sure I’m not harming my engine by mixing coolants from different manufacturers or formulations.

Here are my main questions:

  • Compatibility: Are there specific types of coolant that can be mixed safely, like ethylene glycol vs. propylene glycol?
  • Chemical Reactions: What kind of chemical reactions can occur if I mix them? Is there a risk of overheating or causing damage?
  • Best Practices: What are the recommended practices when it comes to maintaining the cooling system under these circumstances?

I’d appreciate any advice or experiences you can share about mixing coolants or what you’d recommend for keeping the system in top shape! Thanks in advance!

4 Likes
2

I’m curious about mixing coolants too! I’ve always heard it can lead to chemical reactions that create sludge. Is that true?

3

Actually, yes! Mixing traditional green coolant with extended-life coolants can cause gelling, which clogs up the system.

4

I’ve mixed my antifreeze once and regretted it. Stick to one type for peace of mind! Anyone else have similar experiences?

5

I think it depends on the types you’re mixing. Some hybrids can actually work well together. Just read the labels carefully!

6

That’s a good point. But can anyone clarify what specific types can mix safely?

7

From what I’ve heard, mixing OAT (Organic Acid Technology) with IAT (Inorganic Acid Technology) is bad news. You could end up doing serious damage.

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8

So much for the age-old saying ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’ Mixing coolants sounds like walking on thin ice!

9

Exactly, that’s why I always stick with one brand. It’s safer and reduces the risk of engine problems.

10

I once did a coolant flush and accidentally mixed them. My car overheated soon after. Lesson learned!

11

While it’s generally risky to mix, I think if you flush thoroughly and add matching types later, you might be okay. But it’s risky!

8 Likes
12

Seems like all roads lead to caution! What about hybrid coolants? Are they really safer?

13

Hybrid coolants claim to mix well with others, but it’s still a gamble. Personally, I prefer playing it safe.

14

I’ve never tried mixing, but now I’m kind of scared! Should I just stick to one type from now on, really?

1 Like
15

Absolutely! Save yourself the headache. Mixing coolants is just asking for trouble, plain and simple.

16

When it comes to your engine, think of coolant mixing like attempting to make a cocktail with bad ingredients—might end up ruining the whole batch!

17

Mixing coolants can lead to serious issues. Symptoms like overheating and a change in coolant color might indicate a problem. Always try to use the same type to avoid these issues!

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18

I’ve noticed my coolant looking oddly brown lately. Is this a sign of mixing or just old fluid?

19

Brown coolant usually suggests something’s wrong, possibly mixing or contamination. Have you checked the consistency? It might be time for a flush if it’s thick or sludgy.

20

I once mixed coolants and didn’t realize it until my car started running hot! Definitely possible to damage your engine if it gets bad enough.

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