Does it have to be DEX coolant?

Question

I have a 2001 OLDS Aroura. The coolent is low and I need to add more but the cap on the coolant says " Use only DEX coolant" what is that ? Do I have to use this DEX Coolant? And why is the cap on this thing impossible to get off? Girl proof, what?
Thanks

Answer 1

Yes you have to use Dex or it will turn to jello and ruin the system. However I drain and flush and run regular antifreeze,to many stories about Dex eating head gaskets,and the plastic intake manifolds. Yeah the Cap are hard to remove. I say being 5 years old I'd replace the cap,with a easier one to remove.

Answer 2

I would take the advise of the one answer and get it changed it is a 5 year coolant and is probably due. When you get it changed have them put the standard green coolant in it is a much better coolant the only diffetence is that it needs to be changed every 2 years instead of 5.

Answer 3

There are generaly two kinds of Coolant, Red and Green. When you get your cap off, just look at the fluid and see what color it is, then you can go to any auto part store and buy a jug. or if it isnt too low, you can just add water. But only do this if it isnt too low.
To get the cap off, push down and then turn counter clockwise. Be sure to only do this after the car is cooled down, or you will severly burn yourself.

Answer 4

Yes. Mixing coolants can make for some very unpleasant results. Green and Dex will turn into brown goop.