Different Additives: Green antifreeze (also called conventional or traditional coolant) contains different additives compared to orange antifreeze (Dex-Cool). Dex-Cool is a long-life coolant specifically formulated for GM vehicles and contains unique additives to prevent corrosion and protect the cooling system components. Mixing different types of antifreeze can lead to chemical reactions that can compromise the effectiveness of the coolant and potentially damage the cooling system.
Compatibility Issues: The cooling systems of GM vehicles are designed to work specifically with Dex-Cool antifreeze. The orange color helps identify the proper coolant type and ensures compatibility with the materials used in the cooling system, including hoses, seals, gaskets, and radiators. Switching to green antifreeze may introduce compatibility issues and increase the risk of leaks, clogs, or damage to the system components.
Contamination and Corrosion: Mixing green antifreeze with the existing orange Dex-Cool can cause contamination and disrupt the delicate chemical balance of the coolant. This contamination can lead to the formation of harmful byproducts and may accelerate the corrosion process, compromising the longevity of the cooling system components and potentially causing engine damage.
Recommendations:
It's recommended to continue using the orange Dex-Cool antifreeze in your 1996 Buick Lesabre 3.8 liter engine as specified by the manufacturer. Dex-Cool has a longer lifespan (up to 5 years or 150,000 miles) compared to traditional green antifreeze, and it provides optimal protection and performance for GM vehicles. If you need to add coolant, make sure to use genuine Dex-Cool (or an equivalent approved coolant) to maintain the integrity of the cooling system. Mixing different antifreeze types should be avoided unless specifically recommended by the vehicle manufacturer or a qualified automotive specialist.
