Does coolant color make a difference when topping off?

Hey y’all, quick question. I popped the hood and noticed my coolant is green, but AutoZone nearby only has purple and blue options. Does the color matter at all? Can I just add a different one and call it a day, or should I be concerned about mixing colors?

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I wouldn’t mix different colors. It’s usually a sign that they’re for different types of engines or have different chemicals. Check your manual and stick with what’s in there.

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I’ve mixed colors in the past and never had an issue, but it depends on the car. My old Jeep handled it fine, but my buddy’s Subaru didn’t. Maybe ask the folks at AutoZone?

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Dude, coolant color matters. You’re supposed to use the one your car recommends because they’re formulated differently. Mixing them could cause buildup or corrosion in your engine.

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I’d try to find the green one or flush the system if you’re switching to a different color.

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Thanks, I guess I’ll try to find the green one. Didn’t realize the color could mean so much. Appreciate the heads up.

Honestly, I don’t think color matters much. The key thing is the type—like HOAT, OAT, or IAT coolant. Check your car’s specs and go with whatever’s compatible. The color’s just a dye, really.

Yeah man, some of those colors are just manufacturer marketing. I think as long as you’re using the right type (like organic vs inorganic coolant), you should be good right @FordJourneyer. Because I’ve topped mine off with different colors before with no problems.

Yeah sure, I’ve done it before without any issues.