Universal coolant "bad"?

PTAaron · Mar 7, 2016

Had the Patriot since last January now, been going to the same oil change shop since I got it. The last 2 times I've been (November and this yesterday) they have commented on the coolant being "the wrong color" (orange) and that it is testing out as only good to +20 degrees.
The first time I went home and tested it myself - it tested out just fine, and the cooling system was flushed at a shop that works on chrysler products just days before I acquired it so I wasn't worried about the "coolant color".
Yesterday the guy gave me the same speech about how it is testing out wrong and it is the wrong color - and went on to say that "If they used 'universal coolant' in this engine it is going to congeal and ruin the engine!"
I'm 99% sure he is full of crap and just trying to sell me a system flush - but I wanted to check with you guys, the Patriot Experts, to see if I truly need to be concerned?

wpeck2 · Mar 7, 2016

You can buy a coolant tester for a few dollars at a auto parts store. Check to see what
the temperature rating is of your coolant. If it test good (below zero) find another shop
for your service.

griff · Mar 7, 2016

The coolant type is HOAT and the color is pinkish/orange.

You've been driving it over a year with what it has, get a cheap tester and see what the antifreeze protection level is. If it's ok, don't worry about it...and find a new shop.

festerw · Mar 7, 2016

It will only cause problems if it were mixed with other types of coolant. If it was flushed and it's been a year since it's been done you should be fine.

PTAaron · Mar 9, 2016

Thanks for the replies guys - I tested it out after the first time they mentioned it... it tested out fine.
I thought the guy was full of crap then, and I guess he was!

JRomig · Mar 10, 2016

They are most likely using the wrong type of test strips.. if u were to ever have it tested again make sure the shop uses a refractometer.. that will give u a more accurate readout. . Some test strips are made specifically geared towards a certain brand or type of antifreeze and may give a false readout on a different brand or type.. I service the automotive industry and sell up to 1000 g of antifreeze a day to my customers(auto shops and quick lube shops like jiffy lube)..

Universal coolant "bad"?

Our Vendors

Top Contributors this Month

Recommended Communities