Can You Drive with Low Coolant?

[DelWyatt]

Driving with low coolant is not advisable, and the coolant should be replenished promptly. The cooling system's function is to cool the engine and prevent it from overheating. The water pump circulates the coolant to carry heat away from the engine for dissipation. Insufficient coolant will disrupt this circulation, leading to inadequate heat dissipation and potential engine damage due to excessive temperatures. The full name of coolant should be antifreeze coolant, indicating its dual function of cooling and preventing freezing. Antifreeze prevents the coolant from freezing in cold weather, which could otherwise crack the radiator or damage the engine block. Antifreeze is not just for winter use but should be used year-round. As part of regular vehicle maintenance, the engine antifreeze should be replaced annually.