Which Coolant / Anti Freeze?

[g8jka]

I will soon be changing the water pump on my zed which means draining the cooling system and refilling with the relevant coolant / anti freeze mixture. Looking on eurocarparts they are listing blue, red or even purple coloured coolant for my 2.0. It there anything specific I should be looking for or will any coolant be ok? It looks like they are similar specs, just the lifetime protection is different between the colours? Is it also correct that the system holds a 50/50 mixture of around 10.5L?

Thanks guys

 

[Vince]

I use eurocarparts blue with no ill effects in my Zed and I also put it in my E36..
I believe the purple and red can't be mixed with the blue as it turns to a gloopy mess and my friend has a Bini and the previous owner has done this and it looks like a horrible purple/brown colour and I've got to change it for her sometime soon.

Blue is supposed to be changed every 2 years but the red and purple lasts 5 years also check eurocarparts sister site carpartsforless as it's the same company but the spares are generally cheaper.

When I changed mine in the Zed my antifreeze was a green colour and I think it's ok for blue and green to mix but your best bet would be to drain a bit out in a clear container and have a look what's in the system.

It's also worth checking eurocarparts eBay online shop as that's sometimes cheaper than the actual website as I got my complete thermostat and the plastic housing sealed unit for my car on there for about £20 delivered.

 

[jonco]

Personally I use Comma Xstream G48 (was Glysantin Protect Plus G48) which is on the BMW approved list (it's green/blue).
The attached document shows the approvals list but somebody may have a more up to date copy as the list and trade names do change.

 

[Alex Funnell]

I put this from Halford's. Seems okay to me, just got what it said in the shop

 

[EnthuZiaZT]

If your coolant system is in good condition you could try Evans waterless coolant, then you don't have to worry any more until the hoses perish.

Mike

 

[g8jka]

Thanks guys, will probably just go for the blue stuff from eurocarparts / carparts4less as its compatible. I've looked at the waterless and its far to expensive at the moment for the amount needed, as I've also had to get a water pump and may as well do the thermostat and housing whilst I'm at it.