What Coolant Does Audi Recommend?

Audi currently recommends using a VW/Audi-approved G12++ / G13–type coolant (purple/pink or lilac in color), mixed 50:50 with distilled water, and it must meet the official VW coolant specifications such as TL 774 G/J (G12++, G13). Using generic “universal” green coolant or mixing incompatible types is not recommended and can damage the cooling system. The exact spec is listed in the vehicle’s owner’s manual and on an under‑hood label.

Understanding Audi’s Coolant Recommendations

The question of which coolant Audi recommends matters because the wrong fluid can lead to corrosion, water‑pump failures, deposits in radiators and heater cores, and even voided warranty coverage. Modern Audi engines, many with aluminum blocks and turbochargers, are engineered around specific long‑life coolants with particular additive packages. That’s why Audi and its parent group Volkswagen specify tightly controlled coolant standards instead of leaving owners to choose generically labeled products.

The Official Audi/VW Coolant Types

Audi does not describe coolant only by color or brand; it relies on internal VW standards (like G12++, G13) that define the chemistry and performance. These specifications are printed in owner’s manuals and often on the coolant expansion tank cap or nearby decals.

Key Coolant Specifications Used by Audi

The following list outlines the major VW/Audi coolant generations and how they relate to what should be used in most modern Audi vehicles.

• G11 (VW TL 774 C) – Older, blue/green silicate-based coolant used in many 1990s-era VW/Audi vehicles. Now largely superseded and rarely correct for modern Audis.
• G12 (VW TL 774 D/F) – Early pink/red Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant, introduced to replace G11 with longer life and better aluminum protection. Generally no longer the current factory fill.
• G12+ (VW TL 774 F) – Improved OAT coolant compatible with G12, still pink/violet, with better mix-compatibility and protection.
• G12++ (VW TL 774 G) – Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolant, usually purple or pink/lilac. This has been the dominant spec for modern Audi vehicles for years and is backward compatible with G12/G12+ in most cases.
• G13 (VW TL 774 J) – The latest evolution of VW coolant, also purple/pink, based on a glycerin formulation with reduced environmental impact. Functionally similar to G12++, and most newer Audis are factory-filled with G13 or an equivalent.

In practice, most late-model Audi vehicles on the road use a G12++ or G13–type coolant, and Audi-approved aftermarket coolants will state explicitly on the label that they meet the corresponding VW TL 774 specification. Owners of older models should still confirm the correct spec in the manual, because older platforms may have been filled originally with G11 or G12 and may have different compatibility notes.

What Audi Recommends for Modern Vehicles

For current Audi models (roughly mid‑2010s onward, including most MQB/MLB platforms and modern EVs/hybrids’ ICE loops), Audi typically recommends a coolant that meets the VW TL 774 G or J specification, commonly sold as G12++ or G13. Many official Audi dealerships worldwide now supply a purple/pink G13-type coolant concentrate meant to be mixed with distilled water.

Factory-Fill vs. Service-Fill

The following overview distinguishes between the coolant Audis leave the factory with and what is stocked for service fills and top-ups.

• Factory-fill on late-model Audis – Usually a G13-type coolant that meets VW TL 774 J, pre-mixed or concentrated, depending on the production location and market.
• Dealer service-fill – Authorized Audi workshops use an Audi/VW-branded concentrate (often labeled as meeting TL 774 G/J) and mix it with distilled or demineralized water to the correct ratio.
• Aftermarket alternatives – Some major coolant brands (e.g., Febi, Pentosin, Valvoline, etc.) sell products specifically labeled as “meets VW TL 774 G / G12++” or “meets VW TL 774 J / G13.” These are acceptable if they explicitly state compliance with the VW standard.
• “Universal” or generic coolants – Products that do not list a VW/Audi TL 774 approval are not recommended, even if the color seems similar or the label claims universal compatibility.

Because Audi’s guidance can be updated, and some regional markets may use slightly different branding, the safest approach is always to verify that the container lists the appropriate VW TL 774 designation that matches the owner’s manual or factory label.

Coolant Color vs. Specification

Many owners associate coolant choice with color, but Audi’s recommendations are based on chemistry and specification, not just appearance. While G12-series and G13 coolants are typically pink, purple, or lilac, relying on color alone can be misleading because different manufacturers tint coolants differently, and even different chemistries can share a similar shade.

Why Color Alone Is Not Enough

The following points explain why using color as the primary guide can cause confusion and mistakes when topping up or replacing coolant in an Audi.

• Color is not standardized – Two different brands can produce coolants that are both pink but have incompatible chemistries and additives.
• Old vs. new generations – Within VW/Audi’s history, multiple coolant generations (G12, G12+, G12++, G13) have used similar colors while having different formulations and compatibilities.
• Mixed coolant colors – When incompatible coolants are mixed, the resulting color may be muddy or brownish, which tells you something went wrong but not exactly what is in the system.
• Marketing labels – Some “universal” coolants are colored pink or purple to imply European compatibility even when they lack proper VW approvals.

For this reason, Audi and professional technicians emphasize checking the VW TL 774 specification printed on the coolant container and comparing it with the vehicle’s documentation instead of using color as the deciding factor.

Recommended Coolant Mixture and Maintenance

Alongside the coolant type, Audi provides guidelines for the correct mixing ratio and basic maintenance practices. These guidelines help ensure reliable freeze protection, boiling protection, and corrosion control throughout the cooling system’s life.

Correct Mixing Ratio

Audi typically calls for mixing coolant concentrate with distilled water in a defined ratio, except when a factory pre-mixed coolant is used. The following points summarize the usual recommendations.

• Standard mix: 50:50 – A 50% coolant concentrate to 50% distilled water mix is the most common recommendation, providing protection down to around –35°C (–31°F) and adequate boiling protection.
• Minimum concentration (usually ~40%) – Audi generally advises against using less than about 40% coolant, as corrosion protection and freezing resistance can be compromised.
• Maximum concentration (usually ~60%) – More than about 60% coolant concentrate can actually reduce heat transfer and may not improve freeze protection, so a very strong mix is not recommended.
• Use distilled or demineralized water – Hard tap water may contain minerals that build up in the cooling system over time; Audi and VW guidance typically specify demineralized or distilled water.

Owners should check whether the product they purchase is a concentrate or a ready-mix. Pre-mixed coolants already contain water and should not be diluted further, while concentrates must be mixed according to Audi’s guidelines or per the instructions matching VW specifications.

Flush Intervals and Service Considerations

Even long-life coolants eventually degrade. Audi’s recommended service intervals can vary by engine family, model year, and region, but there are general patterns and best practices.

The following list outlines common considerations around coolant replacement in Audi vehicles.

• “Long-life” does not mean lifetime – Many modern Audis may go a long time between coolant changes, but the fluid still ages and accumulates contaminants.
• Check the service schedule – The official maintenance booklet or digital service schedule for each model outlines if and when a coolant replacement is recommended (e.g., at 10 years or 150,000 km for some earlier generations; specific intervals can differ by engine).
• Replace after major engine work – Any time the cooling system is opened significantly (e.g., head gasket replacement, water pump replacement, radiator changes), Audi workshops typically refill with fresh, approved coolant.
• Avoid partial random top-ups – Repeatedly topping up with different or unknown coolants can lead to a mixed, compromised fluid. If the system has been contaminated, a full flush and refill with the correct G12++/G13-type coolant is often advised.

Because exact intervals can vary, especially with newer platforms and hybrids or EVs (which may have multiple coolant loops), owners are encouraged to rely on the specific service guidance for their VIN or consult an Audi dealer for the current recommendations.

Risks of Using the Wrong Coolant

Using non-approved coolant isn’t only a technical concern; it has practical implications for reliability and potentially for warranty coverage. Modern Audi engines are costly to repair, and coolant-related failures can be catastrophic.

Potential Problems from Incorrect Coolant

The following issues are commonly associated with using the wrong coolant type or mixing incompatible products in Audi vehicles.

• Corrosion of aluminum components – Non-approved coolants may not protect aluminum blocks, heads, radiators, and intercoolers adequately, leading to pitting and leaks.
• Sludge and deposits – Mixing incompatible coolants can cause gel or sludge formation, which clogs radiators, heater cores, and small coolant passages.
• Water pump damage – Inappropriate additive packages or abrasives from deposits can prematurely wear water pump seals and bearings, causing overheating and leaks.
• Overheating and hot spots – Reduced heat transfer or blockages can cause localized overheating, potentially warping cylinder heads or damaging turbochargers and catalytic converters.
• Warranty disputes – For vehicles still under warranty, proof that non-approved coolant was used can complicate or void coverage for cooling-system or even engine failures.

Because the cooling system plays a central role in engine longevity and emissions performance, Audi emphasizes both adherence to its coolant specifications and professional servicing when in doubt.

How to Verify the Correct Coolant for Your Audi

Although most late-model Audis share similar coolant requirements, owners should still verify the exact specification for their specific model, engine code, and market. There are several reliable ways to confirm the right coolant.

Steps to Confirm Audi’s Recommended Coolant

The following steps provide a practical checklist for making sure you purchase or use the correct coolant for your Audi.

1. Check the owner’s manual – Look in the “Fluids” or “Technical data” section for references to coolant, antifreeze, or VW TL 774 G/J (G12++, G13) or earlier specs for older cars.
2. Inspect under-hood labels – Many Audis have a coolant information label near the expansion tank or radiator support, indicating an approved G-code or TL standard.
3. Contact an Audi dealer – Provide your VIN and ask parts or service to identify the correct coolant and part number for your exact vehicle.
4. Check product labels carefully – When buying aftermarket coolant, read the fine print to confirm that it explicitly states “Meets or exceeds VW TL 774 G (G12++)” or “VW TL 774 J (G13)” or whichever spec your Audi requires.
5. Avoid mixing brands/specs without confirmation – If you are unsure what is currently in the system, consult a professional; a full flush and refill with the correct product is often safer than guessing.

Following these steps helps ensure that you remain aligned with Audi’s official guidelines and reduces the risk of long-term damage from coolant mistakes.

Summary

Audi recommends using only VW/Audi-approved coolant that meets the relevant VW TL 774 specifications, most commonly G12++ (TL 774 G) or G13 (TL 774 J) for modern vehicles. These coolants are typically purple or pink and must be mixed with distilled or demineralized water, usually in a 50:50 ratio, unless supplied pre-mixed. Color alone is not a reliable indicator; the VW specification printed on the container and in the owner’s manual is what matters. Using non-approved or incompatible coolants can lead to corrosion, deposits, water-pump failures, overheating, and potential warranty issues. Owners should always verify the correct specification via the manual, under-hood labeling, or an Audi dealer before topping up or replacing coolant in their vehicle.