Are Car Coolant and Antifreeze the Same?
2 Answers
Car coolant and antifreeze are not exactly the same. Antifreeze is not entirely equivalent to coolant. Coolant is equivalent to water plus antifreeze, where water is a very low-grade coolant and is also limited by seasons. In other words, antifreeze includes coolant, but coolant does not include antifreeze. Below are the differences between car coolant and antifreeze: 1. Different applicable seasons: Coolant refers to any liquid that can cool the engine, which can be water or antifreeze, but water is limited by seasons; antifreeze is suitable for all seasons, with high quality and guaranteed performance. 2. Different applicable regions: Coolant is suitable for the southern regions; antifreeze is suitable for the northern regions.
When I was young, I also thought that car coolant and antifreeze were two different things. Later, after listening to the explanation from a mechanic, I realized they are essentially the same product, just with different names. The main function of coolant is to protect the engine from overheating, while the special chemicals added can lower the freezing point, preventing it from freezing in winter or boiling in summer. I once tried using water as a substitute, and the engine almost exploded—it’s really not a trivial matter. The key is to regularly check the fluid level and color, and it’s best to replace it every two years—don’t skimp on this small expense. Nowadays, there are various types on the market, such as ethylene glycol-based or organic acid-based coolants. Choosing the right one can extend the engine’s lifespan. When maintaining your car, remember to consult professionals and don’t be as careless as I was at first.
