Are Car Radiators Made of Brass or Copper?

[StQuinn]

Car radiators are made of brass, and the specific reasons are as follows: 1. Advantages of brass radiators: Brass is an alloy composed of copper and zinc. Brass made of copper and zinc is called ordinary brass, while brass composed of more than two elements is called special brass. Brass has strong wear resistance and is often used to make valves, water pipes, connecting pipes for indoor and outdoor air conditioning units, and radiators. 2. Car radiator: When the engine's water temperature is high, the water pump circulates water repeatedly to lower the engine's temperature (the radiator is composed of hollow copper tubes. Hot water enters the radiator, is cooled by air, and then circulates back to the engine cylinder walls), achieving the purpose of protecting the engine. In winter, if the water temperature is too low, the water circulation will stop to prevent the engine temperature from dropping too low.

[VanAdrian]

I've encountered many radiator issues while repairing cars. Most car radiators are made of brass, a copper-zinc alloy material that is much harder and more corrosion-resistant than pure copper (red copper). It's also better suited for the vibrations and high temperatures in automotive environments. Red copper is relatively softer and more brittle, prone to deformation and leaks under heavy vibrations, so it's rarely used in core components. Nowadays, to reduce weight and save fuel, many new cars use aluminum alloy radiators, which dissipate heat quickly and are cheaper. However, older models, like classic American cars, still prefer brass. Maintaining the radiator is crucial—regularly checking the coolant level and cleaning out deposits can extend its lifespan. Never opt for cheap red copper parts, as they will surely cause problems when driving on mountain roads. When choosing materials, consider the car's age and brand compatibility.

[McMatthew]

As a seasoned driver with 20 years of experience, I recall that radiators were mostly made of brass. I once had a radiator replaced, and the mechanic mentioned it was brass because it's sturdy and pressure-resistant, unlike the more delicate and crack-prone red copper. Red copper has a redder hue and higher purity, but radiators don’t require such soft materials. Modern cars are trending toward aluminum radiators, especially in hybrid models. Keep an eye on the temperature gauge during daily driving—if the headlights act up or the engine overheats, the radiator might be failing and need repair. The shift in materials makes me reflect on how quickly cars evolve, but reliable materials remain the key.

[LeCooper]

From the perspective of automotive design, radiators are typically made of brass rather than pure copper. The brass alloy combines the advantages of copper and zinc, offering greater impact resistance and the ability to withstand the high-temperature environment of the engine compartment. Pure copper has high purity but is prone to deformation on bumpy roads, leading to cooling system failure. The modern trend toward environmental protection has promoted the use of aluminum radiators, improving heat dissipation efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. During maintenance, timely addition of coolant and clearing blockages are crucial. Choosing the right material ensures driving safety.