Can I Add Water Instead of Antifreeze?

[VonGenesis]

You can add mineral water to antifreeze, but you cannot directly add water. The components of coolant include water, antifreeze agents, etc. Adding water will increase the proportion of water, thereby lowering the freezing point of the coolant. In cold weather, the anti-freezing effect of the coolant may fail, leading to radiator damage and freezing of the engine's cylinder head and cylinder block. This method should only be used in emergencies, and after emergency use, new coolant must be replaced. Whether to add or directly replace the antifreeze when it is low mainly depends on whether the antifreeze has expired and deteriorated. Generally, the shelf life of antifreeze is about two years, while some long-lasting antifreeze can last between three to five years. If the antifreeze is low within its shelf life, the owner can simply add more antifreeze. If the antifreeze is low beyond its shelf life, the remaining antifreeze should be drained, and new antifreeze should be replaced directly. Precautions for using antifreeze are as follows: Antifreeze's validity period: The effective service life of antifreeze is generally two years. When the coolant expires or becomes dirty, it should be replaced. During replacement, all old antifreeze must be removed, and the radiator should be thoroughly cleaned. After replacement, some antifreeze should be carried to prevent shortages. Antifreeze replacement time: Antifreeze without a model can be used with water, but it may produce sediment, severely affecting the normal function of the antifreeze. If it is a concentrate, it should be prepared and used according to the instructions on the manual. Antifreeze should be replaced every two years or every 30,000 kilometers.