What type of antifreeze should be used for Audi Q5?
3 Answers
Audi Q5 uses G13 antifreeze. Antifreeze is a coolant containing special additives, primarily used in liquid-cooled engine cooling systems. It possesses excellent properties such as preventing freezing in winter, boiling in summer, and protecting against scale and corrosion throughout the year. Composition of antifreeze: The main components of antifreeze are: 50% purified water, 40% methanol, and 10% other substances. Types of antifreeze: Antifreeze is generally divided into three types: ethanol-water type, glycerol-water type, and ethylene glycol-water type. Can different antifreeze brands be mixed? It is necessary to use the same brand of antifreeze. Different brands of antifreeze may have varying production formulas. If mixed, chemical reactions between multiple additives may occur, rendering the additives ineffective. How to choose antifreeze: The basic indicators of antifreeze are the freezing point and boiling point. The market offers antifreeze with freezing points of -15°C, -25°C, -30°C, -40°C, etc. Generally, it is advisable to choose one that is at least 10°C lower than the lowest temperature in your region.
I see you're asking about what antifreeze to use for the Audi Q5. Based on my car repair experience, it's best to use Audi-certified G13 standard antifreeze, which is red and based on organic acid technology, specifically designed to protect the engine and prevent the radiator from freezing in winter or boiling in summer. Generic brands may not be compatible and could corrode aluminum alloy components. When changing the coolant, avoid mixing it with other colors, such as green or yellow, as this can cause sediment buildup and clog the pipes. Remember to check the coolant level and replace it every two years or 40,000 kilometers to keep the engine running smoothly. Neglecting regular replacement can lead to leaks or major repairs, costing both money and time—safety first. Before you start, check the manual to confirm the model year, as older Q5 models might use G12, but most post-2016 models use G13.
I've been driving my Audi Q5 for over five years now, and from personal experience, I've always used G13 coolant, which is red in color and works really well. It can prevent freezing at -40 degrees and boiling at 120 degrees, protecting the engine from overheating. When the car was new, I tried switching to a generic brand, but the warning light came on within a few days. After switching back to the OEM-approved coolant, the issue disappeared. The coolant is ethylene glycol-based, so don't mix it with low-quality products, as it can corrode the pipes and cause leaks. Regularly check the fluid level—there's a mark near the radiator cap, and top it up with the same type if it's low. If you need to replace it, it's quite simple to do it yourself: drain the old coolant, flush the system clean, and then add new G13, about two to three liters at a time. A word of advice for beginners: don't skimp on small expenses. Professional repair shops can test the concentration to ensure safety.
