Are Engine Coolant and Antifreeze the Same Thing?

[VonHaley]

Engine coolant and antifreeze are not the same thing. Coolant is a liquid that can lower the temperature of the engine. It circulates in the engine cooling system, carrying away excess heat generated during engine operation, allowing the engine to operate at normal working temperatures and providing a cooling effect. Antifreeze, whose full name is antifreeze coolant, is a coolant with special additives that provide antifreeze properties. Antifreeze not only prevents freezing but also offers cooling, anti-corrosion, and anti-scaling effects. Antifreeze can prevent 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. However, antifreeze is not only used in winter; it should be used throughout the year. In regular vehicle maintenance, the engine antifreeze should be replaced every year, with special vehicles requiring more frequent antifreeze replacement. On the other hand, coolant can only be used in summer. In winter, when temperatures are low, coolant lacks antifreeze properties and is prone to freezing.