How to Determine the Amount of Antifreeze?

[AugustMarie]

The indicator lines on the antifreeze reservoir mark the maximum and minimum levels of antifreeze that can be added. When the antifreeze level falls below the minimum mark, it indicates a deficiency, signaling the need for timely replenishment. Below are relevant details: 1. The full name of antifreeze should be "antifreeze coolant," meaning a coolant with antifreeze properties. Antifreeze prevents the coolant from freezing in cold winter conditions, which could otherwise cause the radiator to crack or damage the engine cylinder block or head. 2. There are many types of automotive antifreeze agents, such as calcium chloride (CaCl2) among inorganic compounds, methanol (CH3OH), ethanol (C2H5OH, commonly known as alcohol), ethylene glycol (C2H4(OH)2), glycerol (C3H5(OH)3, commonly known as glycerin), lubricating oils, as well as everyday substances like sugar and honey. These can serve as the base liquid for antifreeze. When mixed with an appropriate amount of pure soft water (water containing little or no calcium or magnesium ions, such as distilled water, uncontaminated rainwater, or snowmelt, with a total hardness concentration between 0-30 ppm), they form what is generally referred to as antifreeze.

[VonHailey]

As a veteran driver with twenty years of experience, I rely on my habits to check the coolant. Every morning before starting the car, I pop the hood and inspect the translucent plastic reservoir marked with MIN and MAX lines. The most accurate reading is when the engine is cold—the fluid level should stay between these two lines. I remember last winter, on a morning when it was -10°C, I noticed the level had dropped below MIN, so I immediately went to the auto parts store to top it up with the same red coolant. If the level fluctuates, it could indicate a leak in the radiator or hoses, which needs urgent attention. In summer, I’m especially wary of engine overheating, so I often use a flashlight to check the coolant color—if it’s cloudy or dark, it’s time for a full replacement. The most common mistake new drivers make is adding tap water, which can cause scaling, clogging, and even frozen pipe bursts in winter. Only professional coolant should be used.

[SanTucker]

Just learned a little trick last month for checking coolant levels myself, sharing it with everyone. After opening the hood, locate the translucent plastic tank labeled 'Coolant' – there are level markers on the side. The safest time to check is in the morning before starting the engine. If the fluid level is below the 'LOW' line, you'll need to buy a new bottle from the supermarket. Last time, I chose the blue ethylene glycol type, same as the original, and slowly poured it in until the level reached the middle. After topping up, I noticed brown sediment on the tank walls – the mechanic said it was time for a change. Remember, never mix different colored coolants as it reduces cooling efficiency. I always check this before long trips since engine overheating and breaking down on the road is too dangerous. A reminder for new car owners: never open the cap when the engine is scorching hot – the high-pressure steam inside can cause serious burns.

[StAmelia]

As a business professional who frequently travels long distances, checking the antifreeze is a monthly routine for me. Simply put, when the engine is cold, locate the plastic reservoir marked with Max/Min in the engine bay. I usually use my phone's flashlight to clearly see the light-green fluid level between the markers. If it's below the Min line, I top it up—I never buy random antifreeze at gas stations, always getting the same OEM-spec from the 4S store. Once on the highway, my temperature warning light came on due to a complete antifreeze leak, nearly causing engine seizure. Now before trips, besides checking tire pressure, antifreeze inspection is mandatory. I recommend using a dedicated tester periodically to check the freezing point, ensuring it won’t freeze in northern winters.

[StAngelo]

Ever since I started driving my kids to school three years ago, I've been particularly attentive to the coolant condition. That plastic reservoir filled with colored liquid sits next to the engine, marked with two raised indicator lines. I always check it in cold engine condition three hours after parking, using my phone's flashlight to ensure the fluid level stays between the high and low marks. Last week when I noticed it dipped below the Min line, I immediately went to the auto parts market and bought red long-life coolant, carefully adding it using a funnel. It's crucial never to mix different colored coolants, and always check for rust-like sediment in the reservoir. Remember to wipe the reservoir opening clean with a cloth before refilling to prevent dust contamination.