2002 - 911/ 996 coolant top up ?

[britdave]

I asked another question elsewhere about coolant change, but I just went out to the garage to check my level. With the engine totally cold, the level was just below the "min" mark about a quarter of an inch. I don't think that would be a problem, being at that level would it ? Anyhow, it needs to be topped up. My car is a 2002 911/ 996 C 2 with only 21,500 miles on the clock. What type of coolant should I add, and do I need to make a 50/50 mix of coolant , and distilled water ? Is there anything else I need to know about topping up ? Also, I have read before that the coolant should be pink, mine is yellow, and thats the way I bought it from the dealer with 12000 miles on it so I assume thats what it came with ? The "supposed" life time coolant. Where should I get it from,and do I need to get genuine Porsche coolant. Any advice on this would be much appreciated. Cheers Dave....

[Steve Tinker]

Dave, the biggest concern is why you are losing coolant!

I would top it up with distilled water - the amount you add shouldn't make a big difference to the overall coolant quality.

In future, the genuine Porsche coolant would be the best substitute - adding another brand could cause "gelling" and considering that the Porsche coolant will last for quite a number of years, why change......

[swynn97]

I believe Porsche changed the colour of the coolant at some point - new is pink as you point out. Use genuine porsche 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Slight coolant loss is normal - top it off and keep an eye on it. A quick first fix is to replace the filler cap with a latter model (I believe -03 is the latest rev???).

If you lose a lot, check for a cracked tank.

Good luck.

Simon

[babylonboots]

I was having a coolant leak on my 2001 996 C4. Turns out the tank was cracked in two places. Replaced it with a new tank and that took care of problem. Should be good for another 9 yrs...