Correct antifreeze

[lufftube]

I've not had my Audi A6 1.9 TDI 130(PD) for long so I'm going to drain the cooling system and replace the antifreeze as I don't no how much if any is in there. Do I have to use the VW antifreeze are will any good quality stuf do thats made for alum. engines.
Is there any special filling or bleeding technecs neaded.

[chat]

If the coolant in the header tank looks clean and pink in colour and not scummy I wouldnt bother. Sometimes draining coolant can result in airlocks and all kind of subsequent problems like heaters not working and boiling over and overheating engines with the possiblity of seizures. There is a well known saying "Leave well enough alone". This is especially relevant when it comes to tinkering with cars

[buster]

If the coolant in the header tank looks clean and pink in colour and not scummy I wouldnt bother. Sometimes draining coolant can result in airlocks and all kind of subsequent problems like heaters not working and boiling over and overheating engines with the possiblity of seizures. There is a well known saying "Leave well enough alone". This is especially relevant when it comes to tinkering with cars

Another phrase which equally comes to mind is, "If it aint broke, don't fix it."

You can get antifreeze testers in motor factors for less than it will cost you to change the antifreeze.

[STEWY L]

Another phrase which equally comes to mind is, "If it aint broke, don't fix it."

You can get antifreeze testers in motor factors for less than it will cost you to change the antifreeze.

dip your finger in the header,or expansion tank and just touch it on the tip of your tongue. if it's sweet to the taste,forget about it.

[lufftube]

Thanks for that I'll give that test with dipping the finger in a try as I checked it with an antifreeze tester and it looked border line for being protected maybe I'll drain a little bit off and put in a litre of the proper VW stuff.

[buster]

Thanks for that I'll give that test with dipping the finger in a try as I checked it with an antifreeze tester and it looked border line for being protected maybe I'll drain a little bit off and put in a litre of the proper VW stuff.

If you mix the G12 anti-freeze with other makes, it will go brown and bitty, as if it had gone rusty.

Just to be on the safe side, add just a little of the proper anti-freeze to the litre of coolant you drain off and check its ok.