Difference Between Antifreeze and Radiator Coolant?

[DeNoah]

The main difference between antifreeze and radiator coolant lies in their freezing points. The specific differences between antifreeze and radiator coolant are as follows: 1. Radiator coolant is an additive primarily used in antifreeze coolant to clean scale deposits in the radiator and engine block, while antifreeze is added to the radiator to prevent freezing and aid in heat dissipation. 2. Both have similar compositions and their effects are largely comparable, but radiator coolant has a higher freezing point than antifreeze, making it more prone to freezing when used alone. 3. Radiator coolant effectively inhibits scale formation, prevents engine radiator overheating, and reduces coolant evaporation; antifreeze not only prevents freezing and aids in cooling but also offers anti-corrosion and anti-scale properties.

[DiAlexis]

I work in an auto repair shop and often get asked about this. Simply put, antifreeze and radiator coolant are both types of engine coolant, but their formulations differ. Those radiator coolants on the market mainly focus on anti-boiling and anti-rust properties, making them suitable for high-temperature regions, but they tend to freeze in sub-zero conditions. Antifreeze, with its specially adjusted formula, can withstand temperatures as low as several tens of degrees below zero—essential for northern winters. It depends on where you drive: in the south, radiator coolant saves money, while in the north, antifreeze is a must for older cars. Important note: never mix different colored fluids—I've seen many cars with clogged radiators due to mixing. Nowadays, there are long-life antifreeze options that last up to 5 years or 250,000 kilometers, making maintenance much easier.

[TannerFitz]

I remember spending several days researching when I last changed the coolant myself. The so-called "radiator treasure" is actually a basic type of antifreeze, commonly found in southern regions, mainly to prevent the radiator from boiling. Real antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which prevents freezing even at -25°C. If you see ice crystals in the reservoir during winter, it's definitely a sign of using inferior radiator fluid. Nowadays, some new cars use more advanced organic acid antifreeze, which not only protects metal parts but also rubber hoses. It's recommended to check the freezing point every two years; repair shops can measure it in just three seconds with a small device. By the way, red, green, and blue formulas differ, so remember to thoroughly flush the radiator before switching brands.

[MacDaniel]

Last time my friend added radiator coolant and ruined the engine! Both are essentially coolants, but radiator coolant has poorer antifreeze performance. In the north, you must use antifreeze—check the freezing point value on the packaging. High-quality antifreeze not only prevents freezing but also resists corrosion, preventing scale buildup in the radiator. I’ve seen taxis use radiator coolant to save money, only to end up with no warm air in winter. In fact, antifreeze can also act as a cleaner—if the radiator is clogged, pour in fresh antifreeze and let it sit overnight to clear the blockage. Don’t believe the myth that antifreeze needs to be replaced when it turns black; as long as the freezing point meets the standard, it’s still usable.