Are Coolant and Antifreeze the Same?
2 Answers
Coolant and antifreeze are the same substance, just with different names. The full name of antifreeze should be antifreeze coolant, meaning it is a coolant with antifreeze properties. Antifreeze prevents the coolant from freezing and expanding in cold winter conditions when the vehicle is parked, which could otherwise crack the radiator or damage the engine cylinder block or head. The main components of antifreeze are: 50% purified water, 40% methanol, and 10% other substances. It is generally categorized into three types: ethanol-water, glycerol-water, and ethylene glycol-water. The key indicators of antifreeze are its freezing point and boiling point. On the market, antifreeze products come with freezing points such as -15°C, -25°C, -30°C, and -40°C. It is advisable to choose a product with a freezing point at least 10°C lower than the lowest temperature in your region.
As a car enthusiast, I often ponder such questions. Coolant and antifreeze are not exactly the same; coolant is the liquid used in the entire engine cooling system, responsible for heat dissipation, preventing overheating, as well as corrosion and rust prevention, while antifreeze is a part of the coolant, specifically designed for winter freeze protection. Most modern vehicles use all-purpose coolant, which integrates antifreeze components, ensuring the engine doesn't freeze in cold regions. However, pure antifreeze, without additional additives, may lack boil-over protection, leading to poor heat dissipation during summer high temperatures. It's recommended for car owners to choose standard coolant brands and check the fluid level and freeze point concentration every two years, especially in northern regions. Use a hydrometer to measure and ensure the sub-zero protection meets the standard. Avoid mixing different colors or types of products randomly to prevent damage to the water pump or hoses.
