What color antifreeze does Dodge use?
Understanding the type and color of antifreeze used in your vehicle is crucial for maintaining optimal engine performance and preventing overheating. For Dodge vehicles, the antifreeze color can vary depending on the specific model and year. In this article, we will explore the different types of antifreeze used in Dodge vehicles and their respective colors.
Types of Antifreeze Used in Dodge Vehicles
Dodge vehicles typically use two main types of antifreeze: conventional green antifreeze and the more modern orange or red antifreeze. The choice of antifreeze can depend on the engine type and the year of manufacture.
- Green Antifreeze: This is the traditional type of antifreeze, often referred to as Inorganic Acid Technology (IAT). It is commonly used in older Dodge models.
- Orange Antifreeze: Known as Organic Acid Technology (OAT), this type is used in newer Dodge models. It provides better protection against corrosion and has a longer lifespan.
- Red Antifreeze: Some Dodge vehicles may also use red antifreeze, which is similar to orange but may have different additives. It is essential to check the owner's manual for specific recommendations.
Why the Color Matters
The color of antifreeze is not just for identification; it also indicates the type of additives used in the coolant. Using the wrong type of antifreeze can lead to engine damage, as different formulations have varying chemical properties. Here are some reasons why you should pay attention to the antifreeze color:
- Corrosion Protection: Different antifreeze types offer varying levels of protection against rust and corrosion in the engine.
- Compatibility: Mixing different types of antifreeze can lead to chemical reactions that may cause sludge formation and blockages.
- Performance: The right antifreeze ensures that your engine operates at the correct temperature, preventing overheating and potential damage.
Conclusion
In summary, Dodge vehicles primarily use green, orange, or red antifreeze, depending on the model and year. Always refer to your owner's manual for the specific type recommended for your vehicle. Regularly checking and maintaining the correct antifreeze level and type is essential for the longevity and performance of your engine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What color is the coolant in a 2012 Dodge Ram 1500?
IAT is the classic green, it was eventually replaced by HOAT (2000-2012). HOAT can be any color but in Dodge it is the red/orange labeled "5-year". HOAT was then replaced by OAT starting in 2013, OAT is red/purple. What you have in that Peak jug is OAT, which is the appropriate coolant for MY13 and up.
Does it matter what color antifreeze I use?
With so much variation in available coolants these days, don't rely on the colour of what's in your reservoir to make a guess. Check your car's maintenance manual for what's required.
What is equivalent to Mopar antifreeze?
One alternative is Zerex DEX-Cool, which has received positive reviews for its high-performance capabilities and meets Chrysler MS-12106 requirements. It's a concentrate product that needs mixing with distilled water and does not contain additives like amines, phosphates, or silicates.
Does Dodge use orange coolant?
Prime Orange antifreeze+coolant is designed to work with these specific vehicles: All GM ® vehicles 1995 & newer/GM approved (GMC, Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac, Pontiac, Saturn, Oldsmobile, Hummer), most Ford ® vehicles 2011 – 2018 (Ford, Lincoln, Mercury) and most Chrysler ® vehicles 2013 & newer (Ram, Dodge, Jeep, ...
What happens if you use the wrong color antifreeze?
Putting the Wrong Engine Coolant in Your Car
Mixing coolants of various types can have extensive and expensive consequences. As mentioned above, the mix can solidify, block your engine, and cause overheating, which can, in turn, cause the following problems: Degraded cylinder heads.
What color is Dodge coolant?
What color coolant does Dodge Journey use? It's big to understand that color doesn't matter. While most Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolants are usually orange, yellow, red or purple, Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolants are orange and yellow.
Do all dodges use the same coolant?
Every vehicle manufacturer, including Dodge has developed its own coolant or requires a apparent coolant that is unique to individual years and models.
What color is bad coolant?
Old radiator fluid can look like sludge or turn to a brownish color and appear opaque. There are three types of coolants for your engine, including inorganic acid/additive technology or IAT coolant, organic acid/additive technology or OAT coolant, and hybrid organic acid/additive technology or HOAT coolant.
What is the universal color of antifreeze?
Green
Green is common for universal because that's what the OEMs used to use back when there were only a couple of coolant technologies.
What color is Mopar antifreeze coolant?
Developed for new vehicle technologies. Green-colored coolant formulated as an ethylene glycol-based product for long-lasting protection. Provides corrosion and rust protection for aluminum and all other cooling system components.
