Do car radiators need frequent water refills?
3 Answers
If the radiator isn't leaking, you may not need to add water all year, but regular checks are necessary. Here are relevant details: 1. Antifreeze: What you add to a car radiator isn't tap water or purified water, but automotive antifreeze. In emergency situations when antifreeze isn't available, small amounts of purified water can be added temporarily - but only minimal quantities, otherwise serious consequences may occur. 2. No mixing: During winter, automotive antifreeze must be used, and it must be the same brand. Different antifreeze brands may contain different components, and mixing them could lead to other problems.
I find many people have misconceptions about radiator maintenance. In fact, modern car radiators basically don't require frequent water top-ups. The cooling system is designed to be sealed, and under normal circumstances, coolant can last 2-5 years. However, I recommend opening the engine bay every month to check the auxiliary tank's level marks - just keep it between MAX and MIN. If you notice the level dropping rapidly, it might indicate leaking pipes or a blown head gasket. A reminder to everyone: never add tap water directly, as mineral deposits can clog the radiator, and in winter, it might freeze and crack the pipes. My old car last year had leaking hoses due to aging, and the mechanic said if discovered any later, the engine would have needed major repairs.
As a veteran taxi driver with ten years of experience, I've seen too many cases of improper water addition. The radiator should be filled with dedicated coolant, which has anti-corrosion and anti-boiling functions—plain water simply can't replace it. When washing the car, take a moment to wipe the exterior of the overflow tank and check the fluid level; the safest level is in the middle when the engine is cold. If you find yourself adding water every week, there's an 80% chance the thermostat or water pump is faulty. Last week, a neighbor's car had an overheated engine, and upon inspection, it turned out to be due to a deteriorated radiator cap seal causing insufficient pressure. Remember, never unscrew the radiator cap when the engine is hot—high-temperature steam can scald your arms.
