BMW Antifreeze

[Dudesky_E36]

I just bought a gallon of BMW brand coolant antifreeze for a whopping $26. Am I crazy? What makes this stuff special, or can I just use regular off the shelf antifreeze? I'm curious to know what people use.

[Skycity_BMW]

My manual says . . . . Other than BMW coolent . . . Use only a reputable brand ethylene glycol antifreeze with corrorsion inhibitors that are nitrite and amino free and compatible with aluminum radiators.

[Megamister]

I use Peak Premixed. I have been told that's what dealers use. It can be added to any coolant and is good for any type of coolant system, good for aluminum radiators etc. It's also premixed so you don't have worry about the proper mixture. I found it for like $5 a gallon so it's a bit cheaper than many other coolants.

[supervisor1886]

they are allexpensive. you paid for the orange, which is better and lasts for years, works with aluminium. Dont cheap out

[daniel 61]

Originally Posted by Skycity_BMW

My manual says . . . . Other than BMW coolent . . . Use only a reputable brand ethylene glycol antifreeze with corrorsion inhibitors that are nitrite and amino free and compatible with aluminum radiators.

Yes ! I agree, as long as coolant is phosphate / nitrite free and is a long life type (good brand) ethylene glycol based,it can be used in Bmw engines.
BTW I do not think a "Peak"antifreze meet this spec.
D.

[Megamister]

I just checked the bottle it is Peak Global Lifetime Premixed. I know somebody that was at his local dealer and peeked in the back and seen these bottles sitting around. This is the only one I found so far that states safe for aluminum.

[Bear]

Go to Pep Boys or Auto Zone and purchase some ZEREX G-05, this is what the europeans use. You can check specs out on VALVOLINE website.