Dexcool & Dexron are both General Motors trademarks. The SHO does not have Dexcool, unless someone else put it in. The SHO is supposed to have regular Ethelyne Glycol (Green) antifreeze. You should always keep your eye on the antifreeze level as well as the oil level and transmission fluid level, since idiot lights do not always work. It's really simple. When the car is cold in the morning, once a month take 5 minutes to pop the hood and take off the radiator cap and see if you can see green coolant. If you can see it, you're okay, but it should be added to. There is a "Cold Fill" mark on the overflow tank, which you should also check. Make sure you use a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water. Many people recommend distilled water because it is cheap and doesn't contain the minerals that tap water does, therefore meaning that the chances of it clogging your cooling system are smaller. Also, the Ethylene Glycol antifreeze should be flushed and changed every 36 months or 36,000 miles.
I hope you check your oil on a regular basis, like every time you stop for gas. It may be a little excessive, but it will definitely help prevent you from blowing up an engine due to a low oil level. The oil can be checked when you check the coolant, because the engine does not have to be warm. On the other hand, the transmission fluid should be checked when the engine and transmission are hot (10 miles of driving should be sufficient). If you aren't sure how to check your fluids, don't be ashamed. Ask to have a mechanic or trusted friend show you how. It will save you from potential problems in the future.
By all means, if you do not know the car's service record, HAVE THAT COOLANT CHANGED! As antifreeze deteriorates it's anti-freezing characteristics are changed. At 17 degrees, you're most likely looking at a potentially ruined engine because the water will swell causing the cylinder walls, block, or freeze plugs to burst.
<small>[ December 07, 2002, 09:03 PM: Message edited by: 93MTXSHO ]</small>
