Halfords OAT antifreeze instead of PHOAT

[VeeFource]

Halfords seem to recommend their OAT product even for older Japanese cars (5+ years) despite not disclosing whether it has 2eha in it which can ruin silicone parts. I've asked their customer service and they claim they 'don't know'...

Japanese cars traditionally use PHOAT which is an Asian form of HOAT. The Halfords stuff is Silicate free like the PHOAT but it'd be pretty bad if it has 2eha in it. Yes I could just go to Toyota for my MR2 but it's a bit of a trek and I don't think Halfords should be recommending their OAT stuff if it does contain it. Anyone on here know by any chance?

[trickywoo]

Just put some Prestone in it.

[VeeFource]

I've seen on some forums a post that the Prestone stuff does have a smalle amount of 2-eha in it and another post that the Halfords stuff doesn't. Not really enough evidence for me though.

[Midshipracer]

DO NOT USE, Just buy RED oem Toyota coolant, its cheap enough. You can even buy it online on ebay premixed
5 litres is around £28 you'll need two of them

[trickywoo]

Midshipracer said:

DO NOT USE

What and why?

[Midshipracer]

Certain service items, OEM is best to be used. If you want trouble free motoring from your cooling system it's best to use OEM. You only have to check it every 5 years.

I've had my MR2 Turbo for 12 years and it's still on its original radiator at 26 years. No leaks at all.

For any Toyota built before lets say 2001 Red toyota coolant must be used (iron block)

For aluminium blocks Pink coolant must be used.

Now you can chance using Halfords equivalent, but for a trouble free driving, why chance it just to save a few pounds?

Edited by Midshipracer on Saturday 31st October 22:02

[VeeFource]

Midshipracer said:

DO NOT USE, Just buy RED oem Toyota coolant, its cheap enough. You can even buy it online on ebay premixed
5 litres is around £28 you'll need two of them

I think you're right. From all my reading when it comes to coolant, just bite the bullet and go to the stealership.