Learning the Chrysler Coolant Rainbow

July 5, 2022

Chrysler model year vehicles from 2013 and beyond, with the exception of 2.2L and 2.0L Diesel engines, feature a new engine coolant. The new coolant is an organic additive technology (OAT.) Coolants of different technologies are not compatible or interchangeable (OAT, HOAT or IAT.)

It should be noted that Chrysler released a new engine coolant for the 2013 model year vehicles and beyond, for all engine applications except the 2.2L and 2.0L Diesel engines. The new coolant is an organic additive technology (OAT). OAT coolants have a service interval of 10 years or 150,000 miles. For heavy duty truck and extreme duty cycle applications, refer to the service information or owner’s manual for proper maintenance schedules.

Coolants of different technologies are not compatible or interchangeable (OAT, HOAT or IAT). Mixing these coolants could result in accelerated corrosion within the engine and cooling systems, an ammonia odor or debris particles floating in the coolant.

Pink HOAT coolant.

Further inspection may find corrosion in the system. This could show up as aluminum pipes turning black in the coolant system, engine overheating or leaks in the cooling system.

If OAT (Mopar P/N 68163848AA Purple) has been mixed with HOAT (Mopar P/N 68048953AB Pink or factory fill HOAT Orange, or any other coolants, it will be necessary to flush the cooling system.

Orange HOAT coolant.
About the Author

Mike Mavrigian | Motor Age Editor

Mike Mavrigian has written thousands of automotive technical magazine articles involving a variety of  specialties, from engine building to wheel alignment, and has authored more than a dozen books that crisscross the automotive spectrum. Mike operates Birchwood Automotive, an Ohio shop that builds custom engines and performs vintage vehicle restorations. The shop also features a professional photo studio to document projects and to create images for articles and books.

About the Author

Information courtesy of Mitchell 1

Information for Technical Service Bulletins comes from ProDemand, Mitchell 1's auto repair information software for domestic and import vehicles. Headquartered in San Diego, Mitchell 1 has provided quality repair information solutions to the automotive industry since 1918.

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