What color antifreeze goes in a Dodge?
When it comes to maintaining your Dodge vehicle, using the correct antifreeze is crucial for ensuring optimal engine performance and longevity. Antifreeze, also known as coolant, plays a vital role in regulating your engine's temperature and preventing freezing or overheating. But with so many colors and types available, it can be confusing to determine which one is right for your Dodge. Let’s break it down.
Understanding Antifreeze Colors and Their Significance
Antifreeze comes in a variety of colors, including green, orange, yellow, pink, and blue. These colors are not just for aesthetics—they indicate the type of chemical composition and the specific vehicles they are designed for. Using the wrong antifreeze can lead to corrosion, reduced cooling efficiency, and even engine damage.
What Antifreeze Does Dodge Recommend?
For most Dodge vehicles, the manufacturer recommends using an orange-colored antifreeze known as OAT (Organic Acid Technology). This type of coolant is specifically formulated to meet the needs of modern Dodge engines, providing long-lasting protection against corrosion and wear. However, it’s always a good idea to check your owner’s manual for the exact specifications for your model and year.
Steps to Ensure You’re Using the Right Antifreeze
To avoid any mishaps, follow these steps to ensure you’re using the correct antifreeze for your Dodge:
- Check the Owner’s Manual: Your Dodge’s owner’s manual will specify the exact type of antifreeze required for your vehicle.
- Look for Compatibility Labels: When purchasing antifreeze, check the label to ensure it is compatible with Dodge vehicles.
- Inspect the Current Coolant: If you’re unsure what type of antifreeze is already in your vehicle, consult a professional mechanic to avoid mixing incompatible coolants.
- Flush the System if Necessary: If you’re switching to a different type of antifreeze, it’s essential to flush the cooling system completely to prevent chemical reactions between old and new coolants.
Why Using the Correct Antifreeze Matters
Using the correct antifreeze is essential for several reasons:
- Prevents Corrosion: The right antifreeze protects your engine’s metal components from rust and corrosion.
- Maintains Optimal Temperature: It ensures your engine operates within the ideal temperature range, regardless of weather conditions.
- Extends Engine Life: Proper coolant prevents overheating and freezing, which can cause severe engine damage over time.
Final Thoughts
For Dodge vehicles, orange OAT antifreeze is typically the go-to choice, but always double-check your owner’s manual to confirm. If you’re ever in doubt, consult a trusted mechanic to ensure your vehicle gets the care it deserves. At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help with all your car maintenance needs, from coolant checks to full system flushes. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about your Dodge or any other vehicle!
Frequently Asked Questions
What color coolant does Dodge take?
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent. So you will need to use long life coolant, which is usually red or orange in color such as Dexcool.
Can I use Prestone antifreeze in my Dodge Ram?
Prestone® MAX antifreeze + coolant uses Advanced Original Equipment Technology to provide MAXIMUM ENGINE PROTECTION in all Jeep, Ram, Dodge & Chrysler vehicles from 2000 & newer, guaranteed.
What color antifreeze is universal?
Green
Coolant color does not indicate the properties or type of coolant. 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 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. Head gasket breakage.
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.
What is the color code for coolant?
The Colors of Coolant: Antifreeze Color Chart
| TYPE | INHIBITOR TECHNOLOGY | COLOR |
|---|---|---|
| OAT (Organic Acid Technology) | Organic Acids | ORANGE |
| HOAT (Hybrid OAT) | Silicates & Organic Acids | YELLOW |
| HOAT (Hybrid OAT, Phosphate-free) | NAP Free | TURQUOISE |
| P-HOAT (Phosphated HOAT) | Phosphates & Organic Acids | PINK |
What color is universal antifreeze?
Green
This is the short short short version. Coolant color does not indicate the properties or type of coolant. Green is common for universal because that's what the OEMs used to use back when there were only a couple of coolant technologies.
Does it matter what color antifreeze I use?
As a general rule, you shouldn't mix different types of coolant. However, nowadays, with new vehicle models, the colour of the coolant you choose doesn't always matter. Whereas on older models, using the wrong type of coolant could cause damage to the cooling system and engine.
Does Dodge use special antifreeze?
Every vehicle manufacturer, including Dodge has developed its own coolant or requires a apparent coolant that is unique to individual years and models.
What happens if you mix coolant colors?
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. Head gasket breakage.
