UK-POLOS.NET - THE VW Polo Forum

Hi, I bought a 1999 1.4 CL last week and today the engine overheated when out and about. I phoned the AA and the chap replaced the thermostat valve (said it's regular problem). He also drained the coolant in the process, and told me to go into the garage to get some antifreeze - saying any universal one will do. After filling the car back up I went on my way, but when I got home I had a look in the manual and it specifies G12 pink coolant. The AA chap put in a blue antifreeze/water mixture, and I'm a bit concerned if it was the correct type. Does anyone know if this will cause any issues or damage?

Thanks in advance

Blue is a cheap antifreeze. Pink G12 coolant is very expensive, and thats why garages and the AA tend to avoid using it due to cost. 3L is well over £8

Ok thanks,but what damage (if any) would it cause and is it worth changing it?

Blue does not contain anti corrosion chemicals so your coolant system could suffer internal corrosion.

I would personally do a coolant flush, and change it to G12 for peace of mind, and engine safety.

Doubtful you'd have any damage from using 'blue' as opposed to the recommended 'pink' anti-freeze. The only difference I can see is the 'pink' is longer lasting than the 'blue', before it degrades. So as long as you check its strength once a year & top up if necessary, you'll be fine.

By the way, Welcome to UK-Polos!

lol trust me pink is much much better. I used to work for VW

Its true to say pink lasts longer, but it looks after the internals of the coolant system much much better, and has a higher boiling point than blue

Ok I think ill change it soon when i get the time, thanks for your input!

Pink is best lol BUT I wouldn't get scared and think the blue one will actually 'damage' the engine! its just that the pink one is of better quality and makes the engine last longer then the other one would!