Antifreeze - what is it? What it does, and how to check for it

WHAT IS ANTIFREEZE?

Antifreeze is a coloured fluid that mixes with water. It helps regulate the engine through extreme temperatures. As there is a temperature change outside, the coolant gets pumped. This coolantis pumped throughout the engine block to uphold levelled operating temperature. Antifreeze is also effective in maintaining proper fluid levels. This also assists in avoiding corrosion.

WORKING APPLICATION OF AN ENGINE COOLANT

Engine coolant is mixed with water at a ratio of 50/50. The liquid then drains into the suitable reservoir in the engine. Ethylene glycol is the chemical used to create a base. This mixture is then pumped through your car’s engine. This antifreeze coolant helps to control and uphold optimal operating temperature conditions.

WHAT MAKES EACH ANTIFREEZE TYPE DIFFERENT?

"Antifreeze" and "coolant" are often used capriciously. Antifreeze is one part of an engine coolant. To be precise, coolant is a combination of water and antifreeze.

Ethylene glycol is the base chemical present in the antifreeze coolant. Therefore, irrespective of the colours, they have the same base chemical. But the element that makes one coolant differ from another is the additives and dyes. These additives and dyes are responsible to benefit different mileage vehicle types.

HOW OFTEN DOES MY CAR NEED NEW COOLANT?

The fluids like antifreeze that make your vehicle function must be replaced from time to time. Like many liquids, antifreeze weakens over time and becomes acidic. Continuous replacement and change will make them more effective. The ideal time to check your coolant level is twice a year. It is essential to check the engine coolant levelbefore summer and winter. It is also crucial to consult your vehicle’s owner's manual for more precise information. This will tell you when to replace the coolant in your vehicle.

HOW DO I CHANGE THE COOLANT?

When replacing antifreeze, let the engine and radiator cool off for an hour. Open the bonnet and examine the radiator and tubes for any leakages or flaws. Repair or replace the damaged parts. Disconnect the radiator stopper. Release the radiator's drain seal and pump out the antifreeze coolant. Restock the radiator with water and tighten the plug. Leave the engine running for 10-15 minutes.

Repeat the draining process after the engine is cooled off. Next, fill the radiator with a radiator cleanse and top it off with more distilled water. Replicate this procedure until the water clears out when draining. Lastly, fill the radiator with a mixture of distilled water and antifreeze. Restore the radiator cap, and you have a new antifreeze coolant.

PRESTONE ANTIFREEZE| COOLANT PRICE

Have you ever come across a Prestone antifreeze/coolant? Have you ever questioned if it is really for the betterment of your car? Have you wondered if you can use it while your car’s under warranty?

There have been many questions regarding Prestone antifreeze over the years. Read further to make the right choices when buying the coolant.

IS IT SUITABLE FOR CLASSIC CARS/CARS MADE BEFORE 2001?

Prestone being an OAT antifreeze/coolant, contains anti-corrosion elements. These elements help to protect the cooling system. Therefore, it can be used in all cars effectively. It also offers the same levels of protection without causing any damage. Consequently, it is also apt for all light-duty traveller automobiles.

CLUES YOU HAVE AN ANTIFREEZE LEAK

Antifreeze leak forms the puddles of lime-green, orange, etc., under the car. These puddles can be noticed after you have parked the cars. In addition, different dyes are used to differentiate other fluids and coolants from the car. For example, transmission fluid is dark red, whereas engine oil is gold or black when dirty.
The car starts overheating or running hot.

How to detect a leak

The easiest way to find a leak is to let the car warm up thoroughly. First, park it on a spotless, dry concrete section and look for the leak. Then, shut it off to let it cool down. Do not touch the radiator cap until the engine has cooled down.

After the car has rested for a few minutes, look for any sign of leakage. If you see a pool of liquid, you might have a leakage problem. If you smell the sweet antifreeze aroma, scan for the leakage. Finally, check underneath the vehicle for any sign of wetness or water droplets.

If a small puddle forms near the forefront, lift the hood for a sign of leakage. You can also sniff around to smell the antifreeze smell. Next, look for signs of engine coolant leakage around the radiator cap. If you see the hose leaking, tighten the clamp with a screwdriver.