How to Choose Car Antifreeze?
3 Answers
When selecting car antifreeze, it is important to pay attention to the basic indicators of antifreeze: freezing point and boiling point. The market offers antifreeze with various freezing points such as -15°C, -25°C, -30°C, -40°C, etc. 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 antifreeze be mixed? It is necessary to use the same brand of antifreeze. Different brands of antifreeze may have different production formulas. If mixed, multiple additives may undergo chemical reactions, causing the additives to become ineffective.
When choosing car antifreeze, I see that the local temperature is key. If you live in the cold northern regions in winter, you need to pick a high freeze protection grade, like one labeled -30°C, to avoid engine freeze cracks. In terms of color, green is the most common and suitable for most cars—don’t mix it with red or yellow to prevent chemical reactions that could clog the cooling system. I recommend brand-name products; check the packaging instructions to confirm it’s a long-life Organic Acid Technology (OAT) type, which offers good rust protection and requires fewer changes, making it hassle-free. The new car manual has recommendations—don’t make arbitrary changes. Also, don’t overlook high summer temperatures that can cause boiling; a higher boiling point protects the cooling system. Replace it regularly every two years, mix it with distilled water in the right ratio, and don’t forget to check the fluid level and clarity—replace it if it’s dirty.
During car repairs, it's crucial to focus on the ratio and compatibility when selecting antifreeze. Ethylene glycol-based types are most common, with freeze points indicated on labels to match regional needs—for instance, using -40°C concentrate in frigid zones allows flexible dilution with water. OAT (Organic Acid Technology) offers superior corrosion protection for modern vehicles, lasting 5-7 years, whereas conventional IAT (Inorganic Additive Technology) requires replacement every two years. Never mix different formulations—combining red OAT and green IAT can cause gel formation, damaging the engine. Use distilled water to maintain a 50-50 ratio for optimal performance, as low-quality products may contain impurities that corrode aluminum components. Always flush old coolant thoroughly during replacement and follow the manual’s specified type to prevent mismatches that compromise cooling efficiency.
