Autobahn Blue anti-freeze needs a replacement

[Ti Kan]

Al S writes:
> Now a quote from the Official Factory Repair Manual by Robert Bentley, for
> the 80,90 and Coupe Quattro. 1988-1992
> Re: Vehicle Care section pg. 14
> =93Audi 1990-1992 models: The cooling system has been filled at the factory
> with a permanent coolant which does not need to be changed.=94
> Then why am I changing it? This seems like a very bold or misleading
> statement by Bentley. What does Audi say? Same as above with =93The cooling
> system is sealed and should need very little maintenance.=94
> Do we really need to drain and replace a very expensive fluid every few
> years? Can=92t we just top off the system as required?

What's in the Bentley *is* the official word from Audi.  However,
they also say that the transmission gear oil is life-time, etc.

That said, while it's true that these are fluids designed for very
long service intervals, it's a good idea to replace them after
some years.  The fluids endure heat and wear which, over time,
change their chemical properties.  They also accumulate contaminants.
These will surely reduce their effectiveness over the long haul.

Before you balk at the cost of the correct fluids, consider the fact
that you are spending not more than a tank or two of gasoline's worth,
and they last for quite a number of years.  It's a "drop in the bucket"
with respect to the total operating cost of the car.  I would consider
that a no brainer.

-Ti
2003 A4 1.8T multitronic
2001 S4 biturbo 6-sp
1984 5000S turbo
1980 4000 2.0 5-sp
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