How to Choose Car Antifreeze?
2 Answers
Antifreeze's basic indicators are freezing point and boiling point. In the market, antifreeze comes in several specifications such as -15°C, -25°C, -30°C, and -40°C. Generally, it is advisable to choose one that is at least 10°C lower than the lowest temperature in your region. Composition of Antifreeze: The main components of antifreeze are: 50% pure water, 40% methanol, and 10% other substances. Types of Antifreeze: Antifreeze is generally divided into three types: ethanol-water type, glycerol-water type, and ethylene glycol-water type. Can Different Antifreeze Brands Be Mixed? It is necessary to use the same brand of antifreeze. Different brands of antifreeze may have different production formulas. If mixed, various additives may undergo chemical reactions, rendering the additives ineffective.
Choosing antifreeze really comes down to three things: freezing point, color, and vehicle model. Before changing antifreeze, I always check the manual first. For example, my Japanese car specifically requires long-life pink antifreeze—if you randomly pour in blue antifreeze, it might corrode the radiator. Neighbors in Northeast China, where winter temperatures drop below -30°C, all opt for antifreeze with a -45°C freezing point, while -25°C is sufficient for the south. The worst is buying counterfeit products—last year, a friend bought cheap antifreeze online that turned cloudy after just six months. The mechanic said such antifreeze can clog the pipes. Remember to test the pH level with test strips every two years; if it turns yellow, it’s time for a change.
