M-Class (W163) Produced 1998-2005: ML 230, ML 320, ML 350, ML 400 CDI, ML 430, ML 500, ML 270 CDI

Question on using non MB coolant -

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Old Jan 25, 2006 | 10:04 PM
  #1  
BRML350's Avatar
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From: Chandler,AZ
2004 ML 350
Question Question on using non MB coolant -

Hello. Can someone tell me if I can use a Prestone coolant for my ML? Is this going to be a problem?

Thanks
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Old Jan 25, 2006 | 10:59 PM
  #2  
hanniep's Avatar
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From: East of I-287 South
01 ML55, 91 Supra Turbo, 05 Audi S4
Originally Posted by BRML350
Hello. Can someone tell me if I can use a Prestone coolant for my ML? Is this going to be a problem?

Thanks
My mech. say that's it's OK just make sure you use Prestone Extended life at full strength to get all the benifits of it's has anti-corrosive protection. I was told that MB coolant has an special anti-corrosive additive that prevents MB engines head gaskets from corroding pre-maturely. I have Prestone Extended life in my ML55 now but will change to MB coolant this spring just to keep everything OEM. Ask your Mechanic or MB dealer. Hope this helps.
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Old Jan 26, 2006 | 11:21 AM
  #3  
springerfever's Avatar
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From: atlanta
1999 ML430
Hate to disagree with previous poster, but I think he was given bad information. ALWAYS mix antifreeze in approx a 50/50 proportion. It's antifreeze/coolant properties are actually improved with the mix.Look on back of jug for proper ratio for your climate.

Prestone would probably be ok, but either the Mercedes brand or Zerex G5are approved for Mercedes-Benz. G5 can be picked up at most FLAPS at a better price than the dealer.

Be advised.....some FLAPS market/sell coolant that is already pre-mixed at 50/50 so it can be used straight out of the jug. It will state that plainly on the label.

Last but definately not least.........stay away from DexCool.......lots of lawsuits involving that product..........
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Old Jan 26, 2006 | 11:25 AM
  #4  
00ML430 Bulldog's Avatar
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From: Maryland
2000 ML430
Originally Posted by BRML350
Hello. Can someone tell me if I can use a Prestone coolant for my ML? Is this going to be a problem?

Thanks
Use only OEM coolant.
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Old Jan 26, 2006 | 11:27 AM
  #5  
StapleGun's Avatar
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1967 Morris Cooper "S", 1983 911SC, 1997 Toyota Tacoma, 1999 HD FXSTB, 1998 C43
I would stick with OEM. Also whatever you do, make sure you use distilled H2O.
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Old Jan 26, 2006 | 02:25 PM
  #6  
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From: Chandler,AZ
2004 ML 350
Thanks to all your advice. I will go ahead & use the OEM coolant. I guess that's safer & gives you a peace of mind. I used to drive a BMW (328I) & used prestone & never had problems with it but I guess MB's are a different beast especially with all the quality issues that I have been reading about it.
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