Antifreeze for Škoda Kodiaq: which one to choose, how to replace it and not damage the engine

Owners Škoda Kodiaq We are often faced with the question: what kind of antifreeze to fill in so as not to harm the cooling system? Not only the service life of the engine, but also the operation of the stove, turbine (if there is one), and even the gearbox on some modifications depends on the correct choice. In this article we will analyze manufacturer's official requirements, compatible analogues, replacement nuances and typical errors that lead to overheating or corrosion.

Let us immediately note: Kodiaq equipped with different types of engines (gasoline TSI, diesel TDI), and each of them may have its own nuances. For example, turbocharged engines are more sensitive to the quality of the coolant, and diesel engines are more sensitive to its anti-corrosion properties. It is equally important to consider year of manufacture car: from 2017 to 2026 models could receive updated specifications from Volkswagen Group.

Official antifreeze specifications for Škoda Kodiaq

The manufacturer clearly regulates what kind of antifreeze can be poured into Kodiaq. Main document - service book, where two key specifications are listed:

• 🔹 G13 (purple) - modern standard for most models after 2017. Compliant VW TL 774-J and contains organic additives with an extended service life (up to 5 years or 250 thousand km).
• 🔹 G12++ (red) - allowed for early versions (before 2019), but with a caveat: it cannot be mixed with G13. Compliant VW TL 774-G.

Important: in 2020 and newer models, the manufacturer exclusively uses G13 marked "Evo" (improved formula). This antifreeze has a higher boiling point (+135°C versus +120°C for G12++) and better protects aluminum engine parts from oxidation.

Check the sticker on the expansion tank - it may indicate the exact specification for your modification. If there is no sticker, refer to the year of manufacture:

Year of issue	Recommended antifreeze	Color	Service life
2017–2019	G12++ or G13	Red/Purple	5 years or 150 thousand km
2020–2022	G13 (standard)	Purple	5 years or 200 thousand km
2023–2026	G13 Evo	Violet (with blue tint)	5 years or 250 thousand km

⚠️ Attention: Don't focus only on color! Manufacturers may color antifreeze in different ways. For example, Liqui Moly releases G13 in blue, and Motul - in pink. The main thing is compliance with the specification VW TL 774-J.

Antifreeze volume in the Škoda Kodiaq system

The total coolant volume depends on the engine type and equipment. For most versions the following information is relevant:

• 🔧 1.5 TSI (150 hp) - 6.8 liters.
• 🔧 2.0 TSI (190/245 hp) — 7.5–8.0 liters (depending on the availability of all-wheel drive 4×4).
• 🔧 2.0 TDI (150/190/240 hp) - 7.0–7.8 liters.

With a complete replacement, 10–15% more fluid will be required to flush the system. If you plan to only top up, 1–1.5 liters is enough the same antifreeze, which is already filled. Mixing different types (for example, G12++ and G13) is strictly prohibited - this will lead to sedimentation and blockage of the radiator channels.

Which antifreeze to choose: original or analogue?

Original antifreeze from Škoda (article G013A8JM1 for G13) is more expensive than analogues, but guarantees 100% compatibility. However, there are proven alternatives on the market that meet the specifications VW Group:

• 💎 Liqui Moly KFS 2001 Plus — one of the best analogues of G13, suitable for all versions Kodiaq.
• 💎 Motul Inugel Optimal — a universal option with an increased resource.
• 💎 Castrol Radicool NF - Recommended for turbocharged engines.
• 💎 CoolStream Premium - a budget, but high-quality domestic analogue.

When choosing, pay attention to manufacturer's approvals on the label. If only "complies with G13" is indicated, but there is no mark VW TL 774-J, it is better not to buy such antifreeze. Also avoid products from little-known brands - counterfeits are often diluted with water or contain aggressive additives.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing antifreeze

Replacing antifreeze with Škoda Kodiaq It is recommended to carry out every 5 years or with a mileage of 150–250 thousand km (depending on the type of fluid). You can perform the procedure yourself, but you will need lift or inspection hole, as well as a set of tools.

Step 1. Preparation

Place the car on a level surface and let the engine cool (antifreeze temperature should not exceed 40°C). Open the hood and remove the expansion tank cap - this will speed up draining. Prepare a container for waste liquid.

Step 2: Drain the old antifreeze

On Kodiaq The drain plug is located on the radiator (lower right). Unscrew it with a 13 key, first replacing the container. Then unscrew the plug on the cylinder block (key 16) - this will allow the liquid to drain from the cooling jacket. Be careful: antifreeze is toxic!

Step 3: Flush the system

If you notice flakes, rust or cloudy sediment in the drained fluid, the system needs to be flushed. To do this:

1. Close the drain plugs.
2. Fill with distilled water to the maximum level.
3. Start the engine and let it idle for 10-15 minutes.
4. Drain the water and repeat the procedure 2-3 times until the water runs clear.

Step 4. Filling with new antifreeze

Close all the plugs and start pouring new antifreeze through the expansion tank. Pour slowly to avoid air pockets. After filling, start the engine and warm it up to operating temperature (the indicator arrow should reach the middle). Then add fluid to the level MAX.

What should I do if after replacement the stove blows cold air?

This is a sign of an air lock. To fix it, turn off the engine, let it cool, then remove the hose from the throttle body (on gasoline engines) or the fuel filter heating hose (on diesels). Pour in antifreeze until liquid comes out of the hose without bubbles.

Typical mistakes when replacing antifreeze

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that lead to serious consequences. Here are the most common:

• ❌ Mixing different types of antifreeze - for example, G12++ and G13. This causes a chemical reaction that creates a gel that clogs the radiator and pump.
• ❌ Using tap water to dilute the concentrate. It contains salts that form scale on the walls of the system.
• ❌ Incomplete drainage of old antifreeze. Residues may react with the new fluid, shortening its service life.
• ❌ Ignoring air jams. They lead to engine overheating and heater failure.

⚠️ Attention: If, after replacing the antifreeze, the icon on the dashboard lights up Check Coolant, stop immediately! This could mean a leak or a critical drop in fluid level. Continuing to drive will result in overheating and deformation of the cylinder head.

How to check the quality of antifreeze?

Over time, antifreeze loses its properties: the boiling point decreases, the anti-corrosion properties deteriorate, and the additives disintegrate. You can check its status in several ways:

• 🔍 Visual inspection: if the liquid becomes cloudy, brown, or has flakes floating in it, replacement is urgently required.
• 🔍 Test strips (for example, from Liqui Moly). They show the pH level and additive content. If the strip turns red, the antifreeze has lost its properties.
• 🔍 Hydrometer — a device for checking density. Standard for G13: 1.075–1.085 g/cm³ at +20°C.

Also note foaminess: If persistent foam forms when you shake the reservoir, this is a sign of exhaust gases entering (for example, through a broken cylinder head gasket). In this case, engine diagnostics is needed.

Frequently asked questions about antifreeze for Škoda Kodiaq

Is it possible to add water to antifreeze in the summer?

You can only add distilled water in a volume of no more than 200–300 ml (in case of emergency). After this, replace the antifreeze completely as soon as possible, since water dilutes the additives and lowers the boiling point. In hot weather this can lead to overheating.

How is the G13 different from the G13 Evo?

G13 Evo - This is an improved version with improved anti-corrosion properties and an extended service life (up to 250 thousand km). It better protects aluminum parts and is compatible with modern turbocharged engines. Regular G13 is also suitable for Kodiaq, but its resource is lower (200 thousand km).

What kind of antifreeze was added from the factory?

On the assembly line in Škoda Kodiaq (2017–2026) poured purple antifreeze G13 from Volkswagen (article G013A8JM1). Can be used in 2023–2026 models G13 Evo with a bluish tint. You can check the type by looking at the sticker on the expansion tank or in the service book.

What happens if you don't change the antifreeze?

Antifreeze aging leads to:

• 🔥 Engine overheating due to reduced thermal conductivity.
• 🛠️ Corrosion of aluminum parts (radiator, pump, cylinder head).
• ❄️ Freezing of liquid in winter (risk of rupture of pipes).
• 🚗 Oven failure due to clogged channels.

In critical cases, it may be necessary to replace the radiator (~50,000 rub.) or even a major engine overhaul.

Do I need to flush the system when replacing antifreeze?

Flushing is required if:

• 🔄 You are switching from one type of antifreeze to another (for example, from G12++ to G13).
• 🧹 Old fluid is contaminated (cloudy, with sediment).
• 🚿 There was water or unknown antifreeze in the system.

For rinsing use distilled water or special formulations (for example, Liqui Moly Kuhlerreiniger).