Which type of coolant is suitable for Volkswagen Passat?

When it comes to choosing coolant for your Volkswagen Passat, you'll want to go with a product that meets VW TL 774-C specifications or the G12++/G13 standards. These are typically the pink or purple coolants, specifically formulated for VW Group vehicles. They do a solid job of preventing corrosion and scale buildup, and they hold up well under the high-temperature conditions we see here in Malaysia. You can pick up the genuine stuff at authorized dealers or find reputable aftermarket options at reliable auto parts stores. A quick heads-up: never mix different colored coolants. For example, G12 and G13 have incompatible chemical compositions—mixing them can cause gel formation that clogs up the system. If you're unsure what's already in there, it's safest to thoroughly flush the cooling system before refilling. Also, make a habit of checking the coolant level and concentration regularly, especially with our year-round heat. It's generally recommended to replace the coolant every 2 years or 40,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. Use a refractometer to ensure the freezing point stays below -35°C—this helps prevent overheating issues too. And avoid just topping it up with water; the minerals in tap water can reduce cooling efficiency and speed up corrosion in the system. If you notice your engine temperature spiking unexpectedly, don't delay checking components like the water pump and thermostat. These are common trouble spots on older Passat models.