In general, this invention relates to supplemental coolant additive for use in cooling systems, for example, in diesel engine cooling systems. The supplemental coolant additive includes a C 4 -C 6 dicarboxylic acid, preferably adipic acid, and optionally a C 9 -C 12 aliphatic dicarboxylic acid an aromatic monocarboxylic acid, an aromatic dicarboxylic acid and salts of these acids. The supplemental coolant additive also can include a variety of other additives including molybdate salts, nitrate salts, nitrite salts, silicate salts and buffering agents. The supplemental coolant additive is preferably provided as a solid additive or a liquid concentrate. The supplemental coolant additive is preferably added to the liquid coolant over time to provide increased coolant life. Further the supplemental coolant additive provides enhanced anti-corrosion protection in cooling systems that include hard water.