What is the difference between G12 coolant and the standard coolant from any auto parts store?

My low coolant alarm goes off periodically and need to shut it down but only need a pint or so.

Looking to replace timing belt in the near future and will refill with the G12, but was wondering if I can use regular coolant just to top off til then.

 

I don't think you will ever notice a "runablitiy" complain by using a different coolant, audi/vw use g12 because it has a certain additive package that they feel will best maintain the life of the cooling system components and be least likely to let scale buildup on the block due to the chemical composition of the g12 coolant

 

the fact that you keep having your low coolant light come on should be a red flag something is wrong or leaking, you should probably get on that too, possibly the common aux coolant pump leaking?

 

G12 is NOT glycol based. It had different rust, & corrosion inhibiters. It's also "long life"
I know that with BMW coolant if you put in the green stuff it eats away the radiators, & heater cores.

If you put peak or that other green crap in it, your system will become gel.
You know 1/2 of the coolant system is, wait for it.... WATER, go to your super market, & pick up a gallon of Distilled water for $1.50

Audi coolant is cheaper at the VW dealers, I just paid $27 for a gallon at my Audi Steelership.

Put the right stuff in there, if not you will pay for it in the end.