I use Mercedes coolant.

 

There is more than one type of MB coolant. And various qualities of demin or deionized water for dilution (If you don't buy pre-mixed). On top of that, our 107s have a number of different engines some with more aluminum than others.

All of this makes it more complicated than just buying MB Coolant. The current day dealers often don't know which one to recommend!

Most of us seem to have gravitated toward Valvoline Zerex G05 (MB325.0). Available premixed if quality water not available. G48 also meets the 325.0 spec. But G40 used after 2014 is different.

Zerex G05 Antifreeze/Coolant - Valvoline™ Global - Valvoline™ Global

Explore Valvoline's G-05 Antifreeze Coolant for superior engine protection. The advanced formula helps prevent corrosion and overheating in gasoline and diesel engines.

www.valvoline.com

MB's BEVO covers all operating fluids. This is section 310:

https://bevo.mercedes-benz.com/d/d/en/Spec_310_1.pdf

This is something I wrote a long time ago! Hopefully still correct?

PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - Zeerex GO5 & G48 coolant- what is the difference?

Post 3770383 - Mercedes-Benz Forum and Technical DIY Discussions for Enthusiasts. PeachParts is NOT affiliated, sponsored nor authorized by Daimler AG.

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If they replaced the coolant along with the thermostat, the type they used should be noted on the bill.
If they re-used the old coolant, do you still have the bill from when it was last changed?
There can be problems with mixing some types of coolants, so it is good you are being cautious.
Do you live in a cold winter climate? If not, and it only needs a small amount to top it off (ie: a pint) you could probably just add water and you wont change the mix very much.

 

Valvoline Zerex G-05 diluted 50/50 with distilled water for the win. Comes in a gold coloured jug, you can pick it up at NAPA.

 

I use G-05 in all of my older MBs and my two Mopars. No issues over the last 15 years or so.

 

I use Mercedes coolant. One thing I found with the Mercedes blue coolant is it stains everything and is difficult to clean off once dried. But recently I found the easy way to clean it off after it dried was with more blue MB coolant. Just don't let it dry in place. If you don't like that kind of fuss go with the G05. If you live in warm climates dilute to 40%, as water is a better coolant that antifreeze. If you live in cold climates dilute to 50% to 60% as required. 40% is the minimum requirement for corrosion protection. 60% is the ratio for lowest freezing point. Above 60% the freezing point starts to get higher.

 

Seeing G48 and G05 both are suitable for older Benzes, I wondered about the relative cost. Only difference it seems, is the corrosion inhibitor. Even that is quite similar - just a few components left out! Yet, the G48 costs C$30.90 in Canada, and the G05 just C$17.90 (concentrates) Less 10% for on-line order. So I guess we stay with G-05!

This seldom happens, but it seems the Canadian prices for G-05 are quite a bit less than US prices at Advance(US$23.99) /Autozone (US$21.99)/NAPA (US$20.99) (add 28% for C$ equivalent).

By the way, I don't think that G-40 (MB 325.5, Part #000989282511 ) should be used on a car that has used G-05 or MB 325.0 coolant, unless the complete cooling system is first flushed. G-05 and G48 can be mixed.

 

My GO5 is green.

 

Of course it is. That’s why we say tomato and you say tomahto. Lol. Seriously how is that even possible? Do we know if the container is the same?

 

A little background to support my opinion: Years ago, I was an ASE certified mechanic. I have an AAS degree in automotive technology. I also taught an engine rebuilding lab in the college where I earned that degree. After that I worked as a dealer mechanic for 2 Japanese brands and 1 European brand. I also worked as a mechanic in an independent shop that specialized in repairing MBs. I say all this to point out I have extensive and diverse experience and training related to servicing cars. During the years I worked as a mechanic I was unaware of any differences between any coolant brands. Nor did I hear others opining on differences. In my opinion, and others may disagree, all brands provide the same performance. I have never seen any brand fail to provide either cooling or allowing coolant to freeze. Nor am I aware of any incompatibility between brands. When topping off coolant I have never known which brand was in the car. Nor have I ever tried to match what I was adding to what was already in the car. And I am unaware of any cooling system component (e.g., thermostat, water pump, sensor, or radiator) being negatively impacted by a brand of coolant. So, in summary, I don't think it makes any difference which brand of coolant you top off with, they will all work effectively, are compatible, and no brand will cause any damage.

 

So, in summary, I don't think it makes any difference which brand of coolant you top off with, they will all work effectively, are compatible, and no brand will cause any damage.

May be time to go back to school! Lots of differences in chemistry, performance and compatibility of coolants. Do some research.

 

Boy Rob
I won’t argue but I have read a couple of scientific articles on different organic & inorganic coolants-OATES and Goats etc where the writer described in detail the differences

 

Saying that I do agree that it’s doubtful massive and immediate damage would occur topping off with a different type of coolant. The same with oil-just try and start a new thread debating which is best for our 107’s! Lol. Same with genuine MB parts. Everyone and his brother will come out of the woodwork with an opinion. Most often that’s all it is - opinion. And that’s okay. That’s part of what this forum is all about.

 

How important is it for the color of the coolant to match or at least complement the color of the car?