Hello all. I am going to be doing a coolant and a thermostat change in the near future and had a question about dexcool. Do i need to go to a gm dealer to get the dexcool or can I go to a auto parts store and get it there? I have heard lots of horror stories about putting the wrong type of coolant in. Any advice would be appreciated.

 

If you still have your owners manual, refer to it. It will tell you what type of antifreeze to use and how much the system holds. If you can find the Dexcool anywhere besides the dealership, it will probably be cheaper. I'd try Walmart first, then your friendly neighborhood auto parts stores. Just call them and ask if they have the dexcool and how much per gallon. Then call the stealership and ask them.

 

Thank you for the response. I do have one more question. Is it necessary to buy radiator flush or can it be flushed with just distilled water? It has been many years since i have done any radiator work. It was a 1988 toyota camery and it was a lot different with the regular old green antifreeze.

 

It's all up to you. I personally don't use a flush unless the old antifreeze it just absolutely filthy. I remove the thermostat, put it back together and flush it with the garden hose until it all runs clear. Then I drain the system again and fill it with a 50/50 mixture of the recommended coolant.

 

Thank you very much. The advice has been very helpful. I will let you guys know how it turns out. Thanks again.

 

You're welcome. Happy motoring!

 

50/50 coolant from CARQUEST wont work?

 

Read closer Bill. I didn't say use a 50/50 MIX. I said 50/50 mix of the RECOMMENDED coolant. Meaning Dexcool and distilled water.

 

Hello all. The coolant change went very well. The thermostat was a bit of a pain to get to but other than that no problems. Thanks again for the advice

 

Happy to hear you've got it done. What's next?