Does a car need antifreeze?
3 Answers
Yes, a car needs antifreeze, and it is essential to use the same brand of antifreeze when adding it. Different brands of antifreeze may have varying production formulas, and if mixed, multiple additives could undergo chemical reactions, rendering them ineffective. The method for replacing antifreeze is as follows: Before completely replacing the antifreeze, conduct a thorough inspection to check for any signs of leakage or cracks in the pipelines, with a particular focus on the five-way water pipe. Antifreeze flows through the five-way pipe and is then distributed to different parts of the car to function. If there is any leakage of antifreeze in this section, the water pipe should be replaced or the connection re-secured as needed. Drain the old antifreeze, then flush the liquid channels with clean water. Add clean water to the antifreeze reservoir, then continue to pour water into the reservoir to allow it to flow continuously through the engine cooling system. Start the engine and let it idle for 3 to 5 minutes to circulate the water. The water initially flowing out of the reservoir will have a faint pink color. Continue adding clean water until the water coming out is clear. Note: Do not forget to remove the heater hose and drain the water from the heater core. After draining for about an hour, add the new antifreeze through the radiator hose. Then, pour another bottle of antifreeze into the antifreeze reservoir until it is nearly full. Start the engine and let it run for about 10 minutes. At this point, the coolant level will drop slightly as air is expelled from the cooling system. Add more antifreeze until the reservoir reaches the maximum mark "MAXT."
Having driven for decades, I can't stress enough the importance of not skimping on antifreeze. Cars absolutely need antifreeze—it's not only crucial for preventing radiator cracks in winter but also helps the engine dissipate heat in high temperatures. I once neglected to check the antifreeze in winter and ended up with a frozen engine, costing me over 5,000 yuan in repairs. Adding antifreeze is super simple: pop the hood, locate the coolant reservoir, and ensure the fluid level is between the minimum and maximum marks. If it's low, just buy a universal antifreeze, mix it with water as instructed, and top it up. Don’t forget to replace it every two years—older cars are prone to corrosion. Make it a habit to check for leaks after parking; this small routine can save you major headaches. Antifreeze also protects the water pump and pipes from rust, ensuring peace of mind on long drives.
As an ordinary car owner, I believe antifreeze is a must. I didn't pay much attention to it when I bought my new car before, but I realized its importance after being reminded by the repair shop mechanic. A car engine can freeze at sub-zero temperatures, and antifreeze acts as a lifesaver while also preventing components from being damaged by overheating. The DIY process is simple: mix distilled water or specialized fluid in the right proportion, usually one-to-one, and top it up. I make it a habit to check the fluid level monthly to avoid it getting too low. Once during summer, my engine started smoking while driving, and I found out it was due to low fluid level that wasn't topped up in time—costing me over 800 yuan in repairs. Don't underestimate this maintenance task; it affects battery life and fuel consumption. Regular checks can extend your car's lifespan and save you money and hassle.
