Key Takeaways:
– Engine coolant and antifreeze are not the same things, though they are often used interchangeably.
– The coolant is generally a 50-50 mixture of antifreeze and water.
– It is important to keep your car’s engine from overheating.
– Trusted car service can help you with all your engine coolant needs.
Your car’s engine is susceptible to hot and cold temperatures. These extremes can cause your engine to seize up, making it difficult or even impossible to start your car. If this happens, you may be facing expensive repair bills. Taking care of your vehicle’s cooling system is essential to avoid this situation.
Although antifreeze and coolant are often used synonymously, they refer to two different products. Both of these are essential for a properly functioning engine cooling system.
Well, not exactly.
Many people don’t realize there is a difference between antifreeze and coolant. But it’s essential to know the demarcation because using the wrong one can harm your engine. This post will explain the critical differences between these two types of fluids.
The Main Difference Between Antifreeze Vs. Coolant
What sets antifreeze and coolant apart from one another?
Simply said, coolant is what you put inside your car. In contrast, antifreeze is one of the active components of a coolant mixture. Antifreeze is predominantly composed of ethylene glycol or propylene glycol and is the major component of this stuff.
The coolant is generally a 50-50 mixture of antifreeze and water. The 50-50 combination is sufficient for engines that operate at temperatures greater than 200 degrees Celsius. At the same time, the antifreeze qualities prevent freezing at low temperatures below 30 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the concentration may be as high as 70% antifreeze in freezing weather.
What Is the Use of Antifreeze?
In subzero temperatures, the liquid expands and solidifies when it freezes. If the fluid in your car freezes, it will expand and potentially crack the engine blocks or other components. This is where antifreeze comes in to prevent that from happening.
Antifreeze lowers the water’s freezing point and is typically made with ethylene or propylene glycol. It’s an integral part of any cooling system because it prevents liquids from freezing and damaging your engine.
Antifreeze comes in various bright colors, such as pink, orange, green, and so on. It may also be composed of different chemical formulations designed for certain automobiles. You should not combine the various types of chemically formulated antifreeze unless you understand them intricately. To find out which type of antifreeze your vehicle requires, consult its owner’s handbook.
What Is the Engine Coolant’s Purpose?
The cooled liquid that comes out after combining water and antifreeze in a 50-50 ratio is what we refer to as the “coolant.” The primary function of an engine coolant is to transmit heat and avoid freezing or boiling damage to the engine.
The coolant is found in the radiator when you turn off the engine. However, once the engine is started, the coolant gets pumped through the engine’s passageways to help distribute heat evenly. Afterward, it goes back into the radiator again.
Fresh air from the outside is fed into the radiator, where it’s cooled and circulated back to the engine. Some coolant amounts are introduced into the core when you turn on the car heater. The coolant warms the core, via which warm air is blown into the cabin.
We’ve discussed what happens when engine fluid freezes, but let’s discuss boiling. When coolant boils, it creates vapors that can’t transfer heat properly. If this continues, it could melt metal parts of the engine because essential areas aren’t being kept cool.
Modern vehicles have compact engine compartments that don’t provide adequate ventilation. As a result, the engine would overheat in minutes if it lacked a properly working cooling system.
Antifreeze Vs. Engine Coolant: Safety Precautions
To avoid expensive damages and repairs, always use the proper engine coolant and antifreeze for your vehicle’s cooling system before you pick up any product off the shelf. Double-check that it is compatible with your car model.
To avoid mishaps, it is best to read the owner’s manual regarding which type of coolant to use. In addition, predominate stores offer pure antifreeze and premixed solutions (usually in a 50-50 ratio), so be sure to examine the labels closely before making your purchase.
Avoid mixing coolants of different hues for the same reason you should avoid combining spirits and liquids. Antifreeze or engine coolant comes in various colors, including yellow, pink, blue, and green.
When topping off, one of the most common blunders is to combine two different types or colors of antifreeze. While the combination won’t necessarily explode, it will develop a thick, jelly-like substance that restricts fluid flow. This mistake may result in overheating the engine and other difficulties that put you out of pocket at the mechanics.
Some common questions about engine coolant and antifreeze
How frequently should I change my engine’s coolant?
Almost every expert and professional mechanic agree that you should change your coolant at 30,000 miles. Some manufacturers suggest changing the coolant after 60,000 km, followed by every 30,000 kilometers. Check your vehicle’s owner’s handbook to see if there are any special requirements.
Is it possible to mix antifreeze?
To avoid complications, only mix antifreeze with water, and shoot for a 50-50 ratio. Different colors or types of antifreeze should never be mixed – doing so rarely turns out well. Keep things easy by following the manufacturer’s directions.
How to know if I need a coolant refill?
There are a few classic signs that your engine is overheating. One is if the temperature gauge readings are higher than average. Another symptom is if you notice rust on the coolant reservoir. In addition, be on the lookout for a distinct “maple syrup” smell coming from your engine.Read also: 6 Worrying Signs That You Need To Have Your Radiator Repaired
Ending Note:
No matter what you call it, engine coolant is a vital part of your car’s inner workings. Keep an eye on your fluid levels, and use the right mixture of water and antifreeze to keep your engine operating smoothly.Carl Cannon Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac, serving Warrior, AL, is your one-stop shop for all things automotive. Our car service experts can help you with everything from oil changes to engine replacements. Achieve the perfectionist level of car care by coming to our Alabama dealership today!Schedule your service now!
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