Nissan Engine Coolant L248SP is NOT Nissan's Long Life Engine Coolant...even though I have no idea whatsoever how they differ. I have a gallon of each in my garage. The LL part number is 999MP-AF000. The L248SP P/N is 999MP-AF000P. On the front label the L248SP gallon says, "Engine coolant advanced formulation for aluminum and cast iron engine parts...nonsilicate type green fluid." The front cover of the other says, "Long life Antifreeze Collant." So much for meaningful labeling!
The back of each gallon contains the exact same descriptive introductory paragraph, except where one says "Nissan Long Life Antifreeze Coolant" the other uses the wording "Nissan L248SP," as follows:
"Nissan L248SP Engine coolant (or Nissan LL anti/cool) is an advanced formula ethylene glycol based product which uses state of the art technology. L248SP (or LL) contains no amines, no silicates which may harm water pump seals, no borates that may cause aluminum corrosion and pitting. L248SP (and again...or LL) provides long lasting protection for aluminum, cast iron and all othe engine components."
The L248SP is made by CCI Mft'ing of Lemont, Illinois while the Long Life just says "distributed by Nissan USA."
I paid $16 for the LL two years ago and $25 for the P248SP last fall. I think the LL is $29 now. I didn't realize Nissan was selling 2 different coolants until I got home and compared the labels. I ran the factory coolant until 60K in both my Altima and Maxima per the owners manual. The Max tested a little weak (-20 vs -34) but the inside of both radiators were squeaky clean...so I pay the big $$$'s and continue to use Nissan's brand changing it every 30K now. I do not think there is a comperable after market brand that can be subsituted at any price.
[ May 24, 2005, 10:09 PM: Message edited by: Roger ]