Tosol or antifreeze: which is better?

In the world of automotive engineering, the choice between antifreeze or coolant (i.e. coolant made using modern technologies) for the cooling system remains an important issue for many vehicle owners. In our article, we will consider and compare these coolants, examine their composition, origin and key characteristics. Tosol or antifreeze: the difference will be analyzed below. This will allow you to quickly understand which is better for you in a particular case.

Tosol and antifreeze: what are they made of and the history of development

To understand the difference between antifreeze and Tosol, you need to look at the history of the creation of these liquids in order to understand whether the question is correct: "which is better - Tosol or antifreeze?" And also, whether they can be interchanged in engine cooling systems.

First of all, it is important to understand what Tosol is. TOSOL is a Soviet trade mark (brand) of cooling liquid, created back in the 70s of the last century at the enterprise "Organic Synthesis Technologies", which was made on the basis of ethylene glycol and water using completely inorganic additive technology (IAT) to combat corrosion on the parts of the cooling system, which at that time were made of non-ferrous metals, namely, copper and brass. Thus, the difference between Tosol and antifreeze is that Tosols are used for cooling systems that still use brass or copper radiators. More modern cooling liquids (antifreezes) mainly use aluminum radiators, and Tosols are not suitable for them. The differences between Tosol and antifreeze will be discussed below.

Tosol: Origin and Composition

Nowadays, Tosol and antifreeze are different mixtures, where the basis is ethylene glycol, but they differ in the technologies of the additives used that fight corrosion.

• G11 (VW TL 774-C)

Coolant intended for domestic and foreign cars manufactured before 1996. The composition includes additives created using hybrid technology (HOAT), based on mineral substances: salts of nitric, phosphoric, silicate and boric acids. Since the protective layer is destroyed under the influence of vibrations, it is recommended to replace such antifreeze annually. The term is up to 150,000 km or 3 years.

• G12 (VW TL 774-D)

Carboxylate (completely organic) composition of the 1st generation OAT, which has a good ability to locally prevent corrosion processes on the surface of cooling system parts. Does not contain nitrites, silicates and phosphates. It is prohibited to mix with G11 antifreezes. Service life - up to 200,000 km.

• G12+ (VW TL 774-F)

A more advanced 2nd generation carboxylate composition based on ethylene glycol. Service life - up to 200,000 km. One of the advantages is the ability to mix with G11, but in this case the service life is reduced to 2 years.

• G12++ (VW TL 774-G)

The latest carboxylate antifreeze, which in addition to organic additives contains silicate components. Sometimes this composition is called lobrid. Can be mixed with any coolant "G12". Service life - up to 250,000 km.

• G13 (VW TL 774-J)

The main difference from the G12++ series antifreeze is a different base, namely propylene glycol, which is more environmentally friendly than ethylene glycol. Therefore, it is not recommended to mix it with other antifreezes. In rare cases, it can be mixed with G12+ and G12++.

Comparison of characteristics: Tosol vs. antifreeze

From the presented analysis, it is clear that initially the difference between Tosol and antifreeze was minimal, especially if we consider G11. At that time, asking the question "what is the difference between Tosol and antifreeze" meant getting the answer: "practically nothing." However, let's look into the details and delve into this topic.

Protective properties and temperature ranges

It is important to know that the boiling point of A40 Tosol fluctuates between 108 and 110 degrees. This is slightly lower than that of antifreeze, the boiling point of which reaches up to 115 degrees. This diversity is due to various additives in the composition, as well as the pressure in the system and the quality of the liquid itself. In general, the choice of coolant should be based on the recommendations of the developers for a specific type and model of engine, since there is no absolutely better or worse option.

The TEMOL brand offers a wide range of coolants for all types of engines. Production according to European standards, use by consumers in 15 countries, work for about 20 years guarantee the highest quality.

Chemical composition and its impact on the engine

Today's coolant market offers four key classes, each with its own characteristics.

Class G11 is based on ethylene glycol and anti-corrosion additives, protecting the cooling system from corrosion by forming a protective film. Suitable for cars manufactured before 1998, requires replacement after three years.

Class G12 is based on ethylene glycol with carboxylate (organic) additives, providing localized corrosion control, especially for aluminum cooling systems. Suitable for cars manufactured before 2001, service life up to five years.

Class G12+ offers improved 2nd generation carboxylate additives, which cope better with corrosion. The optimal choice for powerful engines manufactured before 2008. Replacement is recommended after five years or after 200,000 km.

Class G12++ — these are lobrid coolants that combine organic and mineral (silicate) components. They are more effective in localized corrosion control and can serve up to ten years. This option is ideal for modern cars.

Where and when to use: Tosol or antifreeze?

The difference between Tosol and antifreeze is mainly in their additives, although both can contain the same ethylene glycol base, which makes their choice dependent on the specifics of the vehicle.

Compatibility with different types of engines

Always follow the recommendations of the car manufacturers.

Features of use in different climatic conditions

Coolants are divided into summer, used in the warm season and consisting of water with anti-corrosion additives, and winter (all-season), containing water, corrosion inhibitors and a low-freezing component, such as ethylene glycol, which allows modern products to work effectively throughout the year, reducing the need for summer coolants. In the conditions of Ukraine, it is optimal to use all-season ones. Just such an assortment: Tosol and antifreeze is offered by the TEMOL brand, guaranteeing excellent quality and efficiency for our climate.

Analysis of advantages and limitations

What is more correct to choose Tosol or antifreeze depends on the type of engine.

Why choose antifreeze: Advantages and limitations

Tosol has a number of advantages, which makes it popular: the possibility of use for used and old cars, where radiators made of non-ferrous metals are used.

Antifreeze: Strengths and Weaknesses

The best value for money, versatility, spot protection against corrosion, stability at different temperatures, cavitation protection, long service life are the strengths of antifreeze. But it should be taken into account that modern antifreezes are not compatible with older engines.

Conclusions

What to choose, antifreeze or coolant, depends on many factors and cannot be universal. The main thing is to follow the recommendations of your car manufacturer. Tosol and coolant - the difference is especially acute when used in used and modern cooling systems. When determining which is better, antifreeze or Tosol, consider the conditions of use, the characteristics of your car and financial aspects. After all, each coolant has its own advantages and disadvantages.