Updated at: 20-07-2022 - By: Lucas

From 1996 until 2001, G12, a red or pink color coolant based on ethylene glycol and carboxylate compounds, was used in automobiles. It contains no silicates. At 20 °C or 68 °F, its density is 1. 065 1. 085 g / cm3 (at 20 °C or 68 °F). With 2 or more carboxylic acids, the boiling point is about +118 °C (about 244 °F), and it has a freezing point of about -58°C.

To prevent corrosion, G12 coolant is injected into the radiator, where it forms a resistant microfilm that impacts the formation of corrosion foci.

Ethylene glycol is commonly found in coolants at a 50-60% concentration, allowing for the maximum possible performance. For the sake of brevity, we’ll just say that ethylene glycol is a colorless oily liquid that boils at 386.6 degrees Fahrenheit and freezes at 86.6 degrees Fahrenheit.

Additives such as a dye are used to enhance the visibility of the tank.

What does G12 coolant contain?

G12 Coolant-3

G12 coolant comprises roughly 5% distilled water, ethylene glycol alcohol to avoid freezing, and a colorant used frequently to distinguish the class of coolant but also to improve reservoir visibility.

Other additives, such as organic acid-based inhibitors that operate as corrosion inhibitors and compounds that assist prevent scale development since ethylene glycol is aggressive towards non-ferrous metals, are available.

Anti-foaming agents and lubricants are also required in G12 coolant.

A disadvantage of G12 coolant

G12 coolant suffers from a major drawback: It only begins to work when corrosion has already taken place. Even while this action avoids the formation and rapid shedding of a protective layer due to vibrations and temperature fluctuations, it is feasible to improve heat transfer and extend the usage period.

G12 coolant vs G11, G12+, and G13

The additives utilized in each of the three coolant classes, G11, G12, and G13, are different.

An organism that is both organic and inorganic

Differences between G12 and G11 coolant

An earlier type of coolant, G11, is used in this vehicle. This cooling system was used on vehicles with a large cooling system volume prior to 1996. G11 is usually blue or green. 105°C (221°F) is the boiling point, and it has a lifespan of 2 years or 31.00050.000 miles at most.

Phosphate and nitrates are the only inorganic additions in G11, and it was made with silicate to provide a protective coating on the inner surface of the system even when corrosion is present.

As a result of its corrosion-resistant properties, the coolant class G11 is not recommended for long-term use. Abrasive G11 coolant can harm cooling system components after it wears out.

G11 coolant is not recommended for cars with aluminum radiators since its additives are ineffective at protecting this metal at high temperatures.

Mixing G12 coolant with G11 coolant

You should never mix an organic coolant with an inorganic coolant at any point in time.

Differences between G12 and G12 + coolant

G12 Coolant-1

Both G12 and G12 + are organic long-life coolants that employ ethylene glycol and have been in use since 1996; however, only G12 + makes use of a hybrid production process that incorporates silicate and carboxylate technology.

The G12 ++ coolant made its debut in 2008 and has been around since since. Organic and inorganic additives were combined in this coolant, which also contains a minor amount of mineral additives. G12’s fundamental shortcoming was eliminated by this combination, which not only eliminated corrosion but also prevented it from occurring in the first place.

Mixing G12 + coolant with G12 and G11 coolant

G12 + can be combined with G12 and G11, however this is not something I advocate.

Differences between G12 and G13 coolant

A new coolant class, the G13, was introduced in 2012 as a result of stricter environmental regulations. Light red or violet are the most prevalent shades of this coolant. This coolant’s final freezing point is 69 degrees Celsius (92 degrees Fahrenheit), and its boiling point is around 175 degrees Celsius (347 degrees Fahrenheit), making it the finest cooling and antifreeze performer.

Propylene glycol in G13 coolant is less toxic and does less harm to the environment when disposed (about 11% less CO2 emissions than G12), and its price is much higher than G12 antifreeze, but G13 coolant is excellent for cooling and protection against corrosion and chalk deposits, and it’s more expensive than G12 antifreeze.

Aluminum radiators, as well as cast iron and magnesium alloy radiators, are better protected by G13.

Older cooling systems with copper or brass radiators and heaters should not utilize G13 coolant, on the other hand. These materials are best suited to the G11 and G12 grinders.

How to choose the best coolant type for your car

Choosing the right coolant type or class is the first step in determining the optimum coolant for your vehicle.

It’s actually quite simple to find out what kind of coolant you need because it’s written on some car manufacturers’ reservoir tanks and in the car manual for all models.

Coolant is available in two forms: diluted and concentrated, which can be purchased separately. My recommendation is to purchase a concentrated coolant and dilute it with distilled water to the appropriate concentration for your local climate. More coolant is needed at colder temperatures, whereas less coolant is needed in hotter temperatures.

For a copper or brass radiator with a cast iron block, you need a coolant that is either green or blue in color. G12+coolant in orange, purple, or red for a more modern car with an aluminum radiator.

Check to see if the coolant is:

  • there is no pungent smell;
  • there are no sediments in the bottom;
  • the packaging was high quality without label errors;
  • price is according to what products are in the market;

Changing the coolant in your car

Keep an eye on your car’s technical qualities when changing the coolant. Your owner’s manual should provide helpful advice.

After removing the old coolant, allowing it to drain fully, and then adding the new coolant, you’ll want to keep an eye on it. Changing the coolant if the color of the coolant changes indicates that the coolant is losing its protective characteristics and should be replaced.