GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

SERVICE GUILD: RECONSTITUTED ANTI-FREEZE INFORMATION

This bulletin provides information on "reconstituted anti-freeze".

It has been brought to our attention that a number of manufacturers claim to have the capability of reconstituting engine coolant on site. At this time, General Motors does not endorse this practice or any equipment.

Anti-freeze recycling is a very complex issue. In use as an engine coolant, ethylene glycol becomes oxidized producing a very degraded and deteriorated substance. Contamination by other automotive fluids during draining, handling and storage is also a major detriment to the reclaiming process. There is no additive we are aware of that can be merely put into used coolant that will restore it to an acceptable state.

Typically, a multi-million dollar facility, utilizing sophisticated technology with distillation capabilities along with appropriate quality control would be required to adequately process used coolant to bring it to GM specifications.

Disposal of all chemical products should be done in accordance with all applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations.

Review engine coolant substitutes bulletin, 89-SM-3 issued 1/89.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.