Can Antifreeze Be Mixed for Use?

[MaliaFitz]

Antifreeze cannot be mixed. Two different types of antifreeze additives must never be mixed together, as different brands of antifreeze have varying chemical compositions. Mixing them can easily lead to chemical reactions, which may severely damage rubber seals, often resulting in leaks at the water pump seal or welded joints. Precautions for Mixing Antifreeze: Use the same brand of antifreeze. Different brands of antifreeze may have different production formulations. If mixed, various additives may react chemically, rendering them ineffective. Antifreeze Replacement Cycle: For vehicles that operate for long periods, such as taxis, high-quality antifreeze should generally be replaced once a year. For vehicles with shorter operating hours, replacement can be done every two years or every 30,000 kilometers. To prevent excessive foam formation, which reduces the heat exchange efficiency between the antifreeze and engine components, ensure the product is within its validity period when adding it. Long-lasting antifreeze can remain effective for up to three years. If suspended particles, sediment, or signs of spoilage or discoloration are observed in the antifreeze, replace it promptly and clean the system.

[LaSophie]

I really want to remind everyone about this issue - you absolutely cannot mix coolants randomly. Last time, my friend saw the radiator warning light on the highway and casually bought a different brand of coolant at a service area to top it up. In less than two days, the engine started showing high-temperature warnings. Coolants from different brands vary greatly in composition - some are ethylene glycol-based while others use propylene glycol, not to mention completely different additive formulations. Mixing them can cause sediment buildup that clogs water passages, corrodes metal components, and even damages water pump seals. In emergencies, it's better to add distilled water than to mix coolants randomly, but you must do a complete flush and replacement as soon as you get home. I recommend checking the freezing point and fluid level before each winter, and ideally doing a full replacement with the OEM-specified type.

[VanAshlyn]

I've seen too many engines scrapped due to mixed coolant in the workshop. Coolant isn't simply distinguished by color - green fluid may contain silicates, while red might use organic acid technology. Mixing them can compromise the anti-corrosion formula. When different components meet, they form flocculent precipitates that can clog the radiator's tiny cooling channels. Even worse, it can corrode aluminum alloy engine blocks, with repairs often costing over 10,000 yuan. I recommend keeping half a bottle of the original coolant in your trunk for emergencies. If unavailable, use distilled water as a temporary measure, but remember to perform a complete cooling system flush and replacement immediately upon reaching your destination.

[RyanLee]

As a car owner, I recommend not mixing different antifreeze brands. The additive systems from different brands can counteract each other. For example, when corrosion inhibitors fail, iron and aluminum in the cooling system start corroding, producing rust particles that clog the heater core. I once experienced no heat due to mixed antifreeze and spent hundreds cleaning the pipes. When replacing, it's best to drain the old fluid and use compressed air to remove residues. Some models require removing drain plugs for complete drainage. Modern long-life antifreeze lasts five years—there's absolutely no need to mix. If you notice rapid fluid level drops, checking for leaks in the system is more important.

[LeFernando]

Mixing antifreeze poses chemical risks. For example, combining common inorganic and organic antifreeze types can produce gel-like precipitates. These deposits may adhere to the water pump impeller, reducing cooling efficiency. Worse still, they lower the freezing point, potentially causing radiator cracks in severe winter. My tests showed a 10-degree freezing point drop after mixing. Always verify product specifications before adding - even same-color antifreezes may have different formulations. During a Tibet road trip, I witnessed a vehicle with radiator rupture due to mixed antifreeze, ultimately resulting in engine seizure. Regular concentration checks are crucial, and using a refractometer proves more reliable than visual inspection.