Is there a parts store coolant (Autozon, Avance, O reileys etc) that is safe for my 2002 xkr? If so, which brand, type, or color?

 

What color is your factory coolant? If it is orange, you should be able to run DexCool, available at any auto parts store. Check your owners manual for the actual coolant specs....

 

I have been using the Advance Auto mulit-use Yellow Coolant in all my cars, the XK8, BMW 325xit, and a Nissan 300zx TwinTurbo. As a concession to using cheap, easily obtained antifreeze; I make certain that it is flushed and refilled with new coolant at at least every two years, usually more frequently. I've been doing this for ten years now and haven't had any issues. But remember, I am constantly on top of it.

In my research, it seems that when there is problem with a coolant, it was because it was in left the system too long and began to react with something else like phosphates, etc. Even the insidious GM DexCool only a became a sludge issue after it was in the cooling system for a long time... like five years.