Hey, all. I did multiple searches on this but did not find an answer, so Im gonna ask it here.

Whats the general consensus on coolant brand/type? Ive heard, mostly from BMW/MINI official people (as in, anyone who stands to profit from the sale of BMW parts and services) that MINIs should only use their own BMW coolant, while others have said that there are just a finite number of types of engine and other part materials used in cars, and that one aftermarket coolant type/brand will work. But I need more solid answers. And this is the place to get them, afaic.

Does anyone have a definitive answer about coolant brands or types? Is there an aftermarket brand/type that is the same formulation as what is in BMW coolant? Its basically a Chrysler engine, ferchrisakes! I'll use BMW coolant if I have to, but Id rather save some $$ if other stuff will work and not cause any problems.

Thanking you muchly in advance.

 

Zerex G-05 is commonly used. The back panel even mentions that the coolant has been approved by Daimler Chrysler and even identifies the Mini as an applicable application.

 

Use the special Zyrex g05, or go to BMW/mini, and buy theirs.
Mini/BMW coolant is a bit of a hybird... It is not the same as green,yellow,orange, or the pink. It is a special hybird.

 

Okay thanks. I'll get the zerex.

 

BMW coolant is definitely unique in that it has that dark turquoise color to it. Personally, I prefer to use the stock stuff. Even though it's $20/gallon (was back in 2006), it still makes two gallons when mixed 50/50. According to Mini Mania, the system holds 6.3 quarts (not sure if that's radiator only, or if it includes the engine block). Check here: http://new.minimania.com/web/Item/nmd7600/invDetail.cfm. One gallon should be all you need. And it's not like you're gonna change it that often. I bought a gallon about four years ago for topping off, and I'm still on the first gallon after mixing it 50/50.