Antifreeze and Coolant: What Do They Do?

Key Takeaways:

• Radiator fluids are important to prevent engine overheating. 
• Antifreeze is added to water to create a coolant solution that will lower the freezing point of the water and raise the boiling point.
• There are two different types of coolant: traditional & extended-life.
• It’s important to follow proper procedures when adding coolant to prevent damage. 
• Lack of coolant checkups results in severe engine issues & seizures.

There are all sorts of radiator fluids out there – knowing a little bit about radiator fluid can favorably extend the life of your car and keep it running smoothly. So, what exactly is radiator fluid, and what does it do? Radiator fluid, also called coolant or antifreeze, is a liquid that helps remove heat from your engine. 

As your engine runs, it produces a lot of heat. NADA Guides state that you cannot run a car for more than five minutes without coolant. The radiator fluids circulate through the engine, absorbing the heat and then carrying it away to the radiator, where it’s cooled down. This process keeps your engine from overheating, which can lead to serious damage.

Now let’s talk about the two main terms we hear about radiator fluids: antifreeze and coolant. Although they are used interchangeably, there’s a difference between the two!

Now let’s talk about the two main terms that we hear when we talk about radiator fluids: antifreeze and coolant. Although they are used interchangeably, there’s a difference between the two! 

The Difference Between Antifreeze and Coolant

Antifreeze is a substance that helps to prevent engine overheating by regulating the flow of coolant. It’s an ethylene-glycol solution that prevents freezing (as the name ANTIFREEZE suggests). 

Coolant is a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze & distilled water. It’s a fluid that helps to transfer heat away from engine parts. 

While antifreeze is necessary for preventing engine overheating, coolant is necessary for keeping the engine at a consistent temperature. 

This mixture of antifreeze & water (called coolant) provides the best protection against overheating and freezing. However, it’s important to consult your vehicle’s owner manual before adding any fluids to your engine because the wrong mixture can do more harm than good.

What Are the Different Types of Coolant? 

There are two main types of coolant: traditional green coolant and extended-life coolant. 

• Traditional green coolant is typically a mix of ethylene glycol and water.
• Extended-life coolants use propylene glycol and include corrosion inhibitors. 

Extended-life coolants can last up to five years or 150,000 miles without needing to be replaced. Traditional coolants must be replaced every two years or 30,000 miles.

If you’re unsure which coolant to use, check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or ask a qualified mechanic.

What Do Different Colors of Coolant Identify?

Different coolant colors identify the chemical makeup of the coolant and how they should be used. The different colors can help you choose the right coolant for your car. 

• Blue coolant is typically used in European cars.

• Red coolant is typically used in Asian cars.

• Green coolant is used in American cars.

What Are Some Tips for Properly Adding Coolant?

When adding coolant, it’s important to follow the proper procedure to avoid damaging your engine. 

• First, make sure the engine is cool before opening the radiator cap. If the engine is hot, wait until it cools down before continuing. 
• Once the engine has cooled down sufficiently, remove the radiator cap & slowly add the coolant to the radiator.
• Be careful not to overfill it; the coolant should only come up to the level of the radiator opening. 
• Once you’ve added the coolant, replace the radiator cap and start the engine. Let it throttle for a few minutes, then check the level again and add more coolant if necessary.

What Are Some of The Dangers of Not Keeping Your Antifreeze or Coolant Levels Up to Par, And How Can You Avoid Them Altogether?

Did you know that if your car overheats just once, it can cause irreversible damage to the engine? Not to mention, it can also cause the radiator and hoses to crack. And we all know how expensive car repairs can be. The best way to avoid all this is to simply keep an eye on your antifreeze or coolant levels and top them off when necessary. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind and a healthy car.

1. Your Engine Could Freeze Up

If your antifreeze or coolant levels are low, your engine could freeze and resist ignition. This is particularly dangerous in cold weather, as a frozen coolant in engine & radiator hoses generate internal stresses that can damage the engine block. Not only will this leave you stranded, but with a cracked engine that will need to be replaced!

To avoid this, check your antifreeze or coolant levels regularly and top them up if necessary.

2. Your Car Could Overheat

When your antifreeze or coolant levels are low, your car could overheat. This is especially dangerous in hot weather, as an overheated engine is at risk of seizure. 

To avoid this, make sure to keep an eye on your temperature gauge and pull over if it starts to climb too high.

3. You Could End Up with a Cracked Engine Block

You could also end up with a cracked engine block if you are careless about your coolant levels. This is because when the coolant freezes, it expands and puts pressure on the engine block. Over time, this can cause the engine block to crack!  

To avoid this, keep your antifreeze or coolant levels topped up year-round, especially in the winter. 

FAQs About Antifreeze and Coolant – Answered!

1. How Often Should You Replace Your Antifreeze/Coolant?

Most carmakers recommend changing your coolant every 30,000 miles or every two years, whichever comes first. Extended-life coolant has a lifespan of 150,000 miles, but most traditional coolants last for a maximum span of five years. 

2. What Are the Signs to Replace Your Coolant?

You can usually tell when it’s time to replace your antifreeze/coolant with its color. If it’s cloudy or rusty, it’s time for a change. 

You should also be on the lookout for leaks. A small leak might not seem like a big deal, but it can quickly lead to engine damage if left unchecked. So, if you’re due for a coolant change or suspect your coolant is leaking, take your car to a mechanic & have them check it out. 

3. How Much Will It Cost You to Change Coolant?

The cost to change coolant depends on a few factors, such as the type of antifreeze and the amount you need. Generally, you must pay between $50 and $200 for a typical antifreeze change. 

Conclusion

Antifreeze/Coolant prevents your engine from overheating in summer and freezing in winter by lowering the freezing point of the water and raising the boiling point. It is important to keep your coolant fresh and at the correct level and to keep an eye out for leaks. 

Yuma Honda, serving Yuma, AZ, has the best car service center in Arizona. There are many benefits of dealership service centers over independent repair shops. If unaware of these benefits, come to our dealership and see for yourself! 

Whether you need radiator fluid change, coolant flush service, or full repair – we have expert mechanics to assess your situation and provide the best solution! 

Book your service appointment now!

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