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Types of Engine Coolant: What You Need to Know Before You Buy

When it comes to car maintenance, choosing the right engine coolant (antifreeze) is essential to protect your engine, prevent overheating, and avoid costly repairs. Not all coolants are the same — they’re made with different chemicals and are designed for specific vehicle types. Here’s a complete guide to the most common types of coolant and what they’re used for.

IAT Coolant (Inorganic Additive Technology)

  • Common color: Bright green

  • Best for: Older cars (pre-1996 models)

  • Lifespan: 2–3 years or 30,000 miles

  • Why it’s used: Contains silicates and phosphates for corrosion protection in older engine designs.

HOAT Coolant (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology)

  • Common color: Yellow, turquoise, or orange

  • Best for: Ford, Chrysler, and many European cars

  • Lifespan: 5 years or 150,000 miles

  • Why it’s used: Combines OAT long-life protection with silicates for added aluminum protection.

OAT Coolant (Organic Acid Technology)

  • Common color: Orange, red, dark green, or blue

  • Best for: Modern vehicles, especially GM and some imports

  • Lifespan: 5 years or 150,000 miles

  • Why it’s used: Uses organic acid corrosion inhibitors without silicates for long-lasting protection.

P-HOAT Coolant (Phosphated Hybrid Organic Acid Technology)

  • Common color: Pink or blue

  • Best for: Asian vehicles (Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia)

  • Lifespan: 5 years or longer

  • Why it’s used: Phosphate additives protect aluminum engines, common in Japanese and Korean cars.

Customer Support

  • Common color: Purple

  • Best for: Luxury European vehicles (Audi, VW, Mercedes-Benz)

  • Lifespan: Up to 10 years in some models

  • Why it’s used: Organic acids with low silicate for extended life and high-performance engines.

Pro Tip: Always check your owner’s manual or consult a mechanic before switching coolant types. Mixing the wrong coolant can cause engine damage, corrosion, and reduced performance.

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