Which coolant should I use for my car?

CP313

MEMBER
2002 BUICK CENTURY
164,000 MILES

So, I was changing the coolant temperature sensor out and noticed the car has blue coolant in it, the owner's manual calls for Dex-cool, orange. My question is, should I flush all the blue out and switch to orange, or find a 50-50 blue to use? If blue, then which brand because the ones I see say there for Asian cars. I don't want to mess the engine up. Please give me suggestions.

5 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,355 POSTS

Hi,

I'm not familiar with a blue coolant and I am with Dexcool. You don't want Dexcool to mix with traditional coolant. When it does, it turns to like a jelly and will cause all kinds of issues.

So, what I suggest is to purchase a universal engine coolant that is designed to mix with all types. On the jug, it will indicate if it is useable with dexcool.

I attached a pic below showing what I am referring to. The brand won't matter as long is it indicates it is universal and mixes with all types.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

joe

See pic below.

Image (Click to make bigger)

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Monday, April 10th, 2023 AT 9:21 PM

CP313

MEMBER
19 POSTS

Thank you, I used universal coolant after flushing all the blue out, now my question is do you have any idea what this is leaking? I saw this while I was under the car looks like oil. But it also looks muddy for some reason, any ideas?

Images & Video (Click to make bigger)

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Tuesday, April 11th, 2023 AT 12:31 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,355 POSTS

Hi,

That appears to be engine oil. If you notice it uses oil, I have a favor to ask. Because it is a different issue than the coolant, I need you to start a new post. We do this because it makes the thread more helpful to others. I hope you understand. If that is the case, here is the link to start a new post:

https://www.2carpros.com/questions/new

If you feel it is something other, let me know.

Take care and again, I hope you understand.

Joe

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Tuesday, April 11th, 2023 AT 7:11 PM

CP313

MEMBER
19 POSTS

Yes, I understand sorry.

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Tuesday, April 11th, 2023 AT 7:31 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,355 POSTS

Hi,

There is no reason to be sorry. I feel bad. LOL I'm the one that should be saying that because I'm making you start a new one. LOL

You take care of yourself, and I will watch for the new one. One of us will get to it ASAP.

Thanks for understanding.

Joe