Mixing coolant

[cyrilsneer88]

Engine coolant light came on this morning, checked under the bonnet and it would seem I failed to tighten the cap properly last night whilst multitasking in the garage. We're very low on fluid, so my question is; Not knowing what brand or type of coolant the previous owner used is it OK to top up with anything 'suitable'. I stopped at a Halfrauds and bought what their system recommended... "Comma Xstream g48" - ready mixed was the only one available.

shes due a full service in the next 4-6 weeks, am I going to be ok topping up with this in the meantime http://www.halfords.com/motoring/en...eeze/comma-g48-antifreeze-and-coolant-conc-2l

Any other time I would be topping up with water but I'm conscious of the freeze coming. :thumbsdown:

thanks in advance

 

[85genius]

Unless you know what is in there then don't risk it, I'm pretty sure the different types don't mix well

 

[Roundozo]

Get yourself down the dealer's. Their pre mix is actually cheaper than halfords and specific for the car. Only thing is you'll need to dilute it. You also shouldn't use tap water.

 

[hopz121]

Never use tap water.

You have done the right thing for now as you don't know what is already in it.

I would have it all drained out though at your service and have new stuff put in

 

[Roundozo]

I think you mix the BMW concentrate with distilled water.

 

[GuidoK]

I'd just top it off with some distilled water. It's probably going to need 0,5-1L
That would maybe spec your coolant from -40C to -35C. Its not going to get that cold in the next few weeks :lol:

Be sure that fiddeling with the cap was the reason you lost coolant and not some other reason.

 

[cyrilsneer88]

I plan to have it flushed come service, thanks for the quick responses!

Be sure that fiddeling with the cap was the reason you lost coolant and not some other reason.

Defo the cap

 

[highway1]

I am changing mine soon, so as the capacity is 8 litres, I've just bought from BMW dealers 3 bottles of concentrate (1.5 ltr each), cost £29 total, as I presume the mix should be 50/50??
Also got 5ltr of deionised water from ECP for £1.60! (with there wkend 30% discount)