The ideal coolant depends on your vehicle’s make, model, year, and country of origin. Knowing these details will help you select the correct type. Using the wrong coolant can lead to poor performance or even immediate engine damage. Use the following information to make the right choice.
Antifreeze + Coolant is formulated to lower the freezing point and raise the boiling point of water-based liquids, depending on the concentration. A mixture of antifreeze + coolant and water helps prevent freezing in cold environments and increases the boiling point in high-temperature conditions.
Different Antifreeze + Coolant products are designed for specific applications, ranging from diesel engines to American, Asian, and European vehicles, based on manufacturer guidelines to maintain optimal engine temperature. There are two main types of Antifreeze + Coolants: inorganic and organic. But what’s the difference between them?
IAT stands for Inorganic Additive Technology. It is one of the most common types of antifreeze formulas. The IAT formula provides corrosion protection as well as lubrication to the water pump. IAT coolants contain either ethylene glycol or propylene glycol combined with silicate or phosphate additives to increase compatibility with metal cooling-system components.
IAT Key Highlights:
• COMPATIBILITY: Ideal for older vehicles and traditional heavy machinery.
• PROTECTIVE LAYER FORMATION: Chemical reactions form a protective layer.
• CHEMICAL COMPOSITION: Additives include nitrite, silicate, phosphate, borate, and molybdate.
• DEPLETION: Once consumed, inhibitors cannot be restored, leaving metals unprotected.
• SERVICE LIFE: Requires regular upkeep; typically replaced every 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first.
OAT stands for Organic Additive Technology. This type uses organic acids—mainly carboxylic acids and azoles—instead of traditional inorganic inhibitors like silicates or borates. OAT coolants offer long-lasting, environmentally friendly corrosion protection, especially for high-temperature aluminum components. Most OAT formulas are ethylene glycol-based and free from silicates, phosphates, nitrites, and amines. However, heavy-duty versions may include nitrite or molybdate. Compatible with other OAT coolants, they are recommended for newer vehicles and typically offer up to 10 years or 1,000,000 miles of service life.
OAT Key Highlights:
• COMPATIBILITY: Designed for modern vehicles and engines with aluminum alloys. Offers eco-friendly and efficient protection.
• PROTECTIVE LAYER FORMATION: Chemical/physical adsorption forms the protective layer.
• CHEMICAL COMPOSITION: Additives include sebacic acid, benzoic acid, adipic acid, DDA, and 2-EH. Free of nitrites, phosphates, and amines (NAP-free).
• DEPLETION: OAT inhibitors resist depletion and can reattach to continue protecting metal surfaces.
• SERVICE LIFE: Long-lasting—fluid changes typically needed only every 10 years.
• Check coolant levels regularly—ideally during oil changes or routine maintenance.
• Keep a gallon of the correct premixed coolant in your vehicle for emergencies while on the road.
• Never mix coolant types. IAT and OAT (or ELC) use different corrosion protection methods and are not compatible.
• Always check the owner’s manual: It specifies the recommended coolant type. If you don’t have the manual, check online or consult a dealership. Aftermarket options may also be available.
• Water matters: When changing your coolant, always read the label. Some formulas are ready to use, while others require a 50/50 mix with water before adding to the system.
No matter which type of antifreeze you use, it will eventually degrade as the ethylene glycol breaks down, especially in high-temperature engines. As coolant deteriorates, it loses its protective qualities, putting your engine’s metal components at risk of corrosion.
When in doubt, replace it. Using a high-quality coolant and keeping up with routine maintenance are key to long-term engine protection. Explore UltraCool to learn more about our products and how they help safeguard your engine when combined with proper care.
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