Proper Antifreeze for Audi A4 2.8l
 

Ive got a cracked overflow & I will be replacing it today, what is the proper antifreeze for this car, I know its special like everything else on this car.

Proper Antifreeze for Audi A4 2.8l
 

The correct coolant for your vehicle is one that conforms to VW/Audi specification G12, which is usually red or pink. Do not add any additives to this coolant other than distilled water to obtain the correct mix for your climate zone. Also, do not mix the red or pink coolant with fluid of any other colour unless it is specified as conforming to G12 specification.

I've read quite a bit on this issue. The biggest issue is not to mix coolants of any kind. Mixed coolants can turn to gel...not something that pumps, or cools, very well.

Proper Antifreeze for Audi A4 2.8l
 

It is permissible to mix the red/pink coolant with purple as the two are compatible and do not become the gel you refer to. The container will indicate whether or not the G12 coolant may be mixed, for example Pentosin red/pink with Pentosin purple. Both conform to G12 specification and will not break down when mixed. Of course, it is always best, as you indicate, to avoid mixing coolants whenever possible.

I just replaced the overflow with a new one from autozone for $38, I bought my antifreeze from the local Audi Stealership for $23.00, it is pink G-12, what was in there originally was the orange G-12, I thought that "mabey" the engine temp gauge would start working again after the overflow replacement....nope, it still stays at cold even on a 94deg day. I'll cure that later after a good dosage of Vag-com. Thanks all for the info & help.

I have G11 blue in my '96 because that's what it came with, and I like the color, but in our Passat I used Prestone extended-life (actually the Wal-Mart packaged version, cheaper). This product claims to be fully mixable with any other coolant, but I think it's wise to flush the system first (and flush the sediment from the heater core while at it).

When I go to replace the TB, I'll have to replace the waterpump also, Im gonna purge & flush the whole system then (which will be in a week or so). I will be buggin the hell out of you all when I go to do this. I have replaced the belt on a Gen 1 trooper, the chains on a 7.3l ford diesel, the chain on a 123 chassis 300d benz & a 2000 ford contour....never an Audi & it seems ALOT different. I WILL need help on this one. Im a chicken **** noob I know but that is one packed engine compartment!

If you go for the TB kit from Bluaparts it will include everything you need including the coolant and detailed instructions. Bonus is that they also rent the tools to do the job properly when you buy kit from them.

Proper Antifreeze for Audi A4 2.8l
 

Since this is your first attempt at working on an Audi timing belt, it would be very helpful for you to obtain the Bentley workshop manual (www.bentleypublishers.com), which will give detailed instructions and torque specifications.