What Kind of Coolant a 2018 Audi A4 2.0 T Requires

The 2018 Audi A4 2.0 T is designed to use a Volkswagen/Audi-approved, silicate-free, HOAT/OAT-type coolant that meets VW/Audi specification G13 (or the earlier G12++/G12evo standard), typically a purple or pink premixed coolant, and it should never be mixed with generic “green” or non-VAG coolants.

Understanding the Coolant Specification for the 2018 Audi A4 2.0 T

The question focuses on identifying the correct coolant type for a 2018 Audi A4 equipped with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. Using the correct coolant is critical: modern Audi engines rely on specific long-life, phosphate- and silicate-free formulas that protect aluminum components, turbochargers, and complex cooling circuits. Using the wrong fluid or mixing incompatible types can lead to corrosion, deposits, overheating, and potential engine damage.

The Official Coolant Type and Standard

Audi, under the Volkswagen Group, specifies its own coolant standards rather than generic “universal” coolants. For a 2018 A4 2.0 T, the coolant requirement is based on these VW norms.

The following list clarifies the most relevant VW/Audi coolant specifications that apply to this model year and engine family.

• Primary spec: G13 coolant – A modern VW/Audi-approved coolant, typically purple, based on a glycerin/ethylene glycol mix. It is silicate-free, phosphate-free, and formulated for aluminum engines and extended service life.
• Backward-compatible specs: G12++ / G12evo – Earlier or related long-life VW/Audi coolants, usually pink or purple, also silicate- and phosphate-free. These are generally considered compatible with G13 and often found as factory fill or dealer service fill depending on region and timing.
• Color indicators (not a spec, just a clue) – Factory coolant in many 2018 Audi vehicles is pink or purple. Color helps identify compatibility but is not an official standard; always verify the printed VW norm on the bottle.
• Concentration – Commonly sold either as a concentrated coolant (to be mixed 50/50 with distilled water) or as a premixed 50/50 solution. Audi and VW dealers typically provide premixed coolant ready to use.

In practice, the safest option is a VW/Audi-branded G13 or G12evo/G12++ coolant, identifiable by a label stating something like “meets VW TL 774 J (G13)” or similar wording, ensuring full compatibility with your 2018 A4’s cooling system.

What to Avoid: Incompatible Coolants

Just as important as knowing what to use is knowing what to avoid. The 2018 A4’s 2.0 T engine has aluminum components, a turbocharger, and a sophisticated cooling layout that can be damaged by the wrong chemistry.

The following list outlines coolant types you should not use or mix in a 2018 Audi A4 2.0 T.

• Traditional “green” coolant – Older inorganic additive technology (IAT) formulas, often silicate-based, are not designed for modern VW/Audi engines and can cause deposits or corrosion.
• Universal coolants without VW approval – Products marketed as “universal” or “all makes, all models” that lack a clear VW G13/G12++/G12evo approval should be avoided, even if labeled OAT or HOAT.
• Dex-Cool-only products – GM-focused OAT coolants (often orange) may not match VW/Audi additive packages and can be incompatible with factory fill.
• Mixing random coolant types – Combining G13/G12++ with conventional green or incompatible formulas can cause gel-like sludge, reduced heat transfer, and clogging of the radiator or heater core.

By steering clear of non-approved coolants and mixtures, owners help preserve cooling system efficiency, prevent internal fouling, and avoid expensive repairs tied to overheating and corrosion.

How to Confirm the Correct Coolant for Your Specific Car

While the general answer for a 2018 Audi A4 2.0 T is a VW G13 (or G12-series) coolant, it is still important to confirm the exact requirement for your particular vehicle, taking into account regional variations and dealer practices.

Checking the Owner’s Manual and Under-Hood Labels

Audi provides model- and region-specific guidance in its documentation and sometimes directly in the engine bay.

The following steps describe how owners can verify the correct coolant specification for their 2018 A4.

1. Consult the owner’s manual – Look in the “Fluids” or “Technical data” section. It should reference “G13” or a similar VW specification (G12++/G12evo) for engine coolant.
2. Inspect the coolant expansion tank cap – Many Audi caps or nearby stickers note the required coolant type or at least warn to use only “Audi/VW-approved coolant.”
3. Check the existing coolant color – Pink or purple is typical for G12++/G13 in a 2018 Audi. If you see a bright green or another unusual color, the system may have been refilled with a non-original coolant.
4. Review your service records – Dealer or specialist invoices often specify “G13 coolant” or a part number associated with VW/Audi coolant.
5. Contact an Audi dealer with the VIN – A dealer parts department can confirm the factory-specified coolant type and provide the exact product or part number that matches your vehicle.

Following these steps removes guesswork and ensures that the coolant you purchase and add is not only chemically correct but also documented for warranty and maintenance purposes.

Top-Up vs. Full Coolant Replacement

The way you handle coolant depends on whether you are topping up a low reservoir or fully flushing and refilling the system. Each situation calls for slightly different caution levels, but both require adherence to the G13/G12 family of fluids.

Topping Up the Coolant Reservoir

If the coolant level in your 2018 Audi A4 2.0 T is slightly low, topping up is common, but it must be done properly to avoid contamination or pressure-related injuries.

The list below explains safe practices for topping up the coolant in this model.

• Only top up when the engine is cold – Opening the expansion tank when hot can release scalding coolant under pressure.
• Use the same type of coolant already in the system – Ideally, use a VW G13/G12evo/G12++ premix that matches the existing coolant type and color.
• Mix properly if using concentrate – If you buy a concentrate, dilute it 50/50 with distilled water before adding, unless your climate or manual specifies a different ratio.
• Fill to the “MAX” line, not beyond – Overfilling can lead to overflow when the coolant expands as the engine warms.
• Monitor for recurring loss – If the level continues to drop, have the cooling system checked for leaks, a failing water pump, or other issues.

These steps help maintain a correct fluid level without compromising coolant chemistry, ensuring consistent engine temperature control and protecting critical components.

Full Coolant Flush and Replacement

Over time, even long-life coolants can degrade, especially under harsh driving conditions. A 2018 A4 may eventually need a full coolant change, particularly once it is out of the initial warranty period or approaching higher mileage.

The following points outline general considerations for a complete coolant service on this vehicle.

• Follow time/mileage intervals – Check the maintenance schedule for recommended coolant change intervals; many long-life coolants extend beyond 5 years but may be changed earlier for preventive maintenance.
• Use proper bleeding procedures – Modern Audi cooling systems often have specific bleed points and procedures to remove air; incorrect bleeding can cause hot spots or overheating.
• Stick strictly to VW-approved coolant – When refilling from empty, use only G13 or the approved G12-series fluid to avoid mixed chemistries.
• Dispose of old coolant responsibly – Used coolant is toxic and should be taken to a proper recycling or hazardous waste facility, not poured down drains or onto the ground.
• Consider professional service – If you’re unfamiliar with modern cooling systems, having an Audi dealer or qualified European specialist handle the service can prevent air-lock or leak issues.

Executing a full coolant replacement correctly extends the life of the cooling system and helps preserve engine performance, fuel efficiency, and long-term reliability.

Brand Choices and Buying the Right Product

Many companies manufacture VW-compliant coolants that meet G13 or G12++/G12evo standards. While the dealer-branded fluid is the most straightforward choice, reputable aftermarket suppliers also offer compliant products.

Where and What to Buy

Choosing the correct bottle matters more than choosing a particular brand name. What counts is the printed VW approval and formulation details.

The following guidelines summarize how to choose a suitable coolant for a 2018 Audi A4 2.0 T.

• Audi/VW dealer coolant – Typically labeled as G13 or G12evo, often purple or pink, premixed 50/50 and guaranteed to meet the latest VW TL 774 standard.
• Aftermarket coolants with VW approval – Look for products explicitly stating “meets or exceeds VW TL 774 J (G13)” or “TL 774 G/F” on the label from known European-focused brands.
• Avoid products with vague claims – Terms like “for European vehicles” without a specific VW norm are not sufficient; the VW code (e.g., TL 774 J) should be clearly indicated.
• Check premix vs. concentrate – If the label says “ready to use” or “premix,” do not add additional water; if it is concentrate, follow the mixing directions, typically 1:1 with distilled water.
• Match color but prioritize the spec – While using a coolant of similar color to your existing fluid helps avoid confusion, always prioritize the official VW specification over color alone.

By reading labels carefully and insisting on VW-approved specifications, Audi owners can safely use either dealer-supplied or correctly specified aftermarket coolants without sacrificing system protection.

Summary

The 2018 Audi A4 2.0 T requires a Volkswagen/Audi-approved, long-life coolant—specifically a G13 (or compatible G12++/G12evo) silicate-free formula, commonly pink or purple and often sold as a 50/50 premix. Owners should avoid traditional green or non-approved “universal” coolants and never mix incompatible types, as doing so can cause corrosion, sludge formation, and cooling system failure. Verification via the owner’s manual, under-hood labels, or dealer confirmation using the VIN ensures the correct fluid is selected. Whether topping up or performing a full flush, adhering strictly to VW coolant specifications is essential for protecting the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine and maintaining long-term reliability.

What coolant does the Audi A4 use?

Pentosin – Pentofrost NF (G11) Silicate European Concentrate Antifreeze / Coolant – 1.5 Liters (Part No. 8114117)

Does Audi need special coolant?

But unlike generic vehicles, Audi coolant is different. It’s specially formulated to work with Audi’s aluminum engine components and precision-engineered cooling systems.

Can Audi use universal coolant?

Do Audis Need Specific Coolant. Yes, the type of coolant required for use in a Audi can vary, but it is recommended by the manufacturer themselves that a mixture of 50% water and 50% antifreeze is used.

What type of coolant for 2018 Audi A4?

The correct coolant for a 2018 Audi A4 is Audi/VW G13 (lilac/purple), which is also backward-compatible with older G11, G12, and G12++ coolants. You can also use aftermarket coolants that meet the Audi/VW specification G13, such as some products from Pentosin or PEAK, but ensure you choose one that explicitly states compatibility with Audi/VW G13 or the TL052774J specification. 
This video demonstrates how to find the correct coolant for your Audi: 53sHome AutosYouTube · May 29, 2021
Key coolant types

• Audi/VW G13: This is the recommended and most modern coolant for your 2018 A4. It’s a lilac/purple color and is backward compatible with older specifications. 
• G11, G12, G12++: G13 can be used in place of these older coolants, which may be red or purple depending on the specific formula. 
• Aftermarket options: Brands like Pentosin and PEAK offer compatible products, but check the product’s specifications to ensure it meets the Audi/VW G13 or TL052774J requirements. 

Important considerations

• Never mix different coolant types: Do not mix different coolants unless the new one is explicitly stated to be backward-compatible.
• Use only approved coolants: Avoid using generic store-bought coolant, as it likely will not meet Audi’s strict specifications.