what type of coolant do I need?

Question

I have a 2003 Malibu and the last couple of times that I have take in to the dealer for an oil change a couple of weeks later the low coolant light comes on, I have taken the car in to see if there was a leak and they found nothing, the did fill my car with coolant and the problem went away. But now the light in going on again and I want to but the coolant and put it in my self but I went to the store and I have no idea what to buy, help what type of coolant should I buy????

Answer 1

Likely something compatible with aluminum, and many parts stores stock the proper antifreeze for GM cars, just ask for it. Mix 50/50 before you put it in the engine, unless you have already diluted it then you may add some straight. Be sure to test it too, and replace the radiator cap because it may be allowing the coolant to blow out after shut down and you are not noticing it until the idiot light comes on. Many people including good mechanics over look the obvious. Radiator caps are inexpensive and may solve your issue.

Answer 2

You should buy Dexcool antifreeze and mix it 50/50 with water. This is the standard coolant used in these vehicles. Your light is coming on because you either have a leak or you have a sensor problem. If you have to add coolant because it is visually low then you would obviously have a leak. Alot of these vehicles have a plastic upper intake manifold which leaks internally and cannot be seen from the outside. Have it checked out by a qualified mechanic.


By the way, you should not mix coolant types. Do not add green coolant to a vehicle that takes the orange Dexcool.

Answer 3

dexcool only. But if you are going through that much antifreeze you should get a second opinion. Is it under warranty still? If so the dealer probably isnt finding anything for a reason. Also just becasue the light comes on doesnt mean it is low. Could be a faulty sensor on the overflow bucket. Try tapping the top of the buckert with a screwdriver handle. If that turns the light out then you need a new sensor.

Answer 4

You must have a leak to use that much coolant

To check for a leak it should be done while the engine is running
and wait for the thermostat to open to circulate the water,may take 1/2 hour,squeeze the radiator hoses by hand,,with gloves on so not to burn yourself and look for a small stream of water that may come from a pin hole,or look really close at the hoses for a small water stain,some pin holes will only show when the thermostat is circulating the water.
Smell your exhaust ,,(Maybe a Head gasket) for anti-freeze and under the hood.

Good luck...

if non of these finds a leak than add 50-50 anti-freeze or pre-mixed anti-freeze

Answer 5

The type of coolant that u need is called Dexcool. It is an orange color and most auto parts stores will stock it. Just ask them for a gallon of dexcool and they will direct u right to it.

Answer 6

well obviously you have a leak somewhere... just get the cheapest. make sure you get the same color thats in it now (either orange or green)...you can put straight water in it but i wouldnt recommend it incase it stopped leaking and then you forgot that there wasnt any antifreeze when winter came.

Answer 7

You want to buy DexCool to put into it, but, If I were you I would have the water pump checked. Sounds like your water pump may be going bad. Buy DexCool to refill it with though.

Answer 8

coolant is coolant isn't it??

if there are multiple kinds, just buy the kind you need for a new Chevy car...

Answer 9

used motor oil is an excellent coolant

Answer 10

Buy antifreeze. It's best in hot or cold weather.