I've just passed my Driving test and I've got my dads Fabia 1.4 2002.

My dad replaced the coolant not to long ago, but I think he's filled it wrong. The antifreeze used before, at a service was pink, my dad just replaced it with a blue generic antifreeze. It looks like he didn't flush it properly though as the tank has a brown liquid and the cap had some white deposits on it. I've read a lot of threads and such, but have a few questions.

I'm meant to use TL-774 D. I've looked for it but it seems pretty rare and expensive. Would I be able to use a cheaper more available antifreeze once I do a proper flush?

Could you please suggest/link a product that is suitable that you've used.

My dad used this; http://www.amazon.co.uk/CarPlan-BSA001-Carplan-Bluestar-Antifreeze/dp/B001CJ2KDI/ref=sr_1_8?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1369829535&sr=1-8&keywords=antifreeze

(carplan bluestar antifreeze)

Weird thing is, the coolant alarm used to go off before, but now it doesn't. My dad thinks that means it's fine, but I fear that he's mixed up some of the unflushed and it's corroding/damaging the system.

im sure you are meant to use the pink coolant. although im sure someone can confirm 100%

Yeah, you need OAT (Organic Acid something) in a modern engine like this, and it's all coloured pink or orange. The current VAG specification to look for is 12++.

Blue is an old-fashioned glycol antifreeze which doesn't have the right anti-corrosion mix in it, and gives exactly the described symptoms when mixed with OAT.

The situation is probably saveable by draining the engine and flushing block and radiator until the water out runs clear, then refilling with 50/50 OAT and water. Given that it lasts twice as long between changes, OAT is actually cheaper as well!

Yes, coolant in Fabia should be G12+, which has now been replaced with G12++ (purple)

You cannot mix the old style blue and G12. You'll need to drain and flush the system and fill up with the correct coolant.

We have G13 now at vw..

Get genuine coolant, you'd be surprised how well priced it is.

Oh so I can use g12++ and g13

I've seen them a lot more but they state they are for 2007+ models, is that something that doesn't really affect me?

Thanks for all the replies, very appreciated.

Sorry for bumping this, I wanted to edit my last post but can't. Just wanted to say this is basically resolved.

Bought G13 coolant from www.theskodashop.co.uk at a very reasonable price. £8.38 for 1.5lt (2 bottles will do my system). Also picked up an oil filter and a drinks holder :p

Thanks a bunch, Will be changing the coolant soon, and when I have to change my oil I'm going to change the filter too.