Should I Change My Coolant?

[Nick1994]

On the Beetle, I was wondering if I should change the coolant? I'm at 170k miles and the only time anything related to coolant that has been done was a timing belt and water pump replacement at 83k, a thermostat somewhere around 90k-100k, and another timing belt and water pump at 166k. I don't know if they drain the system for the water pump replacement or the thermostat, or just take the parts off and let drain what drains out, drain out. I'm assuming it takes G12? If I do end up draining the radiator, does it matter what brand of coolant I use to refill?

 

[AKhan87]

brand? I doubt it, as long as it is compatible, call VW dealers to confirm some doubts (I have found that parts department always ends up telling me that they are using [censored] brand instead of OEM fluids)

 

[ioci]

with that mileage, why not.

 

[Merkava_4]

If you feel compelled to ask, that usually means you should. Listen to your conscience.

 

[EdwardC]

There's a chance that the coolant was refreshed with new at the timing belt/water pump service.

If you still have it, check your invoice for the service, they might list a gallon or two of coolant 4k miles ago. If so, I'd say you're fine.

 

[Chris142]

Yes

 

[01rangerxl]

It never hurts.

A lot of the coolant would have been changed with the water pumps/t-belt, and probably a good amount with the t-stat too. If it's on your mind enough to ask about it though, just change it. It's easy maintenance that can save you a lot of headaches.

 

[Rolla07]

Originally Posted By: EdwardC
There's a chance that the coolant was refreshed with new at the timing belt/water pump service.

If you still have it, check your invoice for the service, they might list a gallon or two of coolant 4k miles ago. If so, I'd say you're fine.


+1

If it was done 4k miles ago, there wouldnt be a point in doing it again.

 

[supton]

IMO enough comes out with the TB change. I would not sweat it.

I believe our PD mills got downgraded to 80kmiles BTW for the belt.

G12 or better.

 

[Spector]

Coolant wold have to be replaced with water pump, since that was not long ago I would wait at least 1-2 more years