Question about Dexcool coolant

I flushed mine out of the TAHOE years ago and just used regular green with no problems.

edbehnke wrote:
you shouldn't have to top it off at all. if a little low just add water.

Not a good answer as adding just water will weaken the strength of the coolant which can cause problems. I think Ron has the right answer-have the dealer top it off as it is still under warranty.

I've never had a problem with Dexcool. 200,000 miles and counting.

Weldon wrote:

powderman426 wrote:
I would Google "Dexcool problems" and then decide if you want to keep using it. I would not use it, but everyone has a different threshold for pain.:B

X2, there are many mechanics who recommend using coolant other than dexcool. In my case in a Chevrolet, I had gasket problems which allowed the water to get in the motor cylinder.

Yeah because nobody has even blown a headgasket using standard coolant!!! I've used dexcool for 330,000 in duramax trucks with no problems.

powderman426 wrote:
I would Google "Dexcool problems" and then decide if you want to keep using it. I would not use it, but everyone has a different threshold for pain.:B

X2, there are many mechanics who recommend using coolant other than dexcool. In my case in a Chevrolet, I had gasket problems which allowed the water to get in the motor cylinder.

dodge guy wrote:
Dump the dexcool and go with the green or gold. Completely flush out the Deathcool before switching over!

While there might be certain vehicles from the past that could benefit from that advice, I don't believe that is good advice in general.

I've always bought Havoline Dexcool. The only time I've ever needed to add any, was when I had a leak. One time I needed a new over flow tank pressure cap, the other time it was a water pump. My Suburban just had the pump replaced.

you shouldn't have to top it off at all. if a little low just add water.

Lessmore wrote:

Ron3rd wrote:

GeoBoy wrote:
Just use Zerex Dexcool.

Thanks for the recommendation. As to a leak, I've never added any coolant in 2 years but like to have some on hand just in case I need to add a bit.

Ron, if the Traverse is still under warranty I would only use GM Dexcool, bought from the Chevy dealer.

I'm also not sure if it's a good idea to mix different brands. I'm assuming the Traverse still has the original factory issued GM, but that's just my assumption.

Also I am careful about using the proper mix...of antifreeze and distilled water....as per GM recommendations.

I never top off, just using water as depending n the quantity it can weaken the mix. Being that I'm in a cold climate, I may need to maintain the proper mix, more than those who live south of me.

I think it's a very good idea that you have, about keeping some on hand. I do the same, and also keep the brand/type of motor oil on hand.

Thanks, the Traverse is only 2 years old and still under warranty. I will have the dealer top off the coolant the next time it's in for an oil change. They change the oil (Dexos) and filter and rotate the tires for $38.95 so I just have it done there. Was just wondering about having some on hand if I needed it. As for dumping the Dexcool, not sure the Warranty would like that.

Dump the dexcool and go with the green or gold. Completely flush out the Deathcool before switching over!

Ron3rd wrote:

GeoBoy wrote:
Just use Zerex Dexcool.

Thanks for the recommendation. As to a leak, I've never added any coolant in 2 years but like to have some on hand just in case I need to add a bit.

Ron, if the Traverse is still under warranty I would only use GM Dexcool, bought from the Chevy dealer.

I'm also not sure if it's a good idea to mix different brands. I'm assuming the Traverse still has the original factory issued GM, but that's just my assumption.

Also I am careful about using the proper mix...of antifreeze and distilled water....as per GM recommendations.

I never top off, just using water as depending n the quantity it can weaken the mix. Being that I'm in a cold climate, I may need to maintain the proper mix, more than those who live south of me.

I think it's a very good idea that you have, about keeping some on hand. I do the same, and also keep the brand/type of motor oil on hand.