Is Antifreeze Needed in Summer?
4 Answers
Antifreeze is necessary in summer. Engine coolant serves multiple functions including freeze protection, boiling prevention, and corrosion resistance, unaffected by seasons or regions. The reasons are as follows: 1. It provides anti-corrosion protection for cooling system components. 2. It prevents scale formation, avoiding reduced radiator efficiency. 3. It ensures the engine operates within normal temperature ranges. When using antifreeze, pay attention to the following aspects: 1. Try to use the same brand of antifreeze. 2. Most antifreeze products have a two-year validity period; confirm the product is within its validity period when adding. 3. When replacing, completely drain the old fluid, clean the cooling system thoroughly, then add new fluid. 4. Avoid diluting with water.
You definitely need coolant in summer, even though it's called 'antifreeze', it actually serves more important purposes. Last time I went for maintenance, the mechanic told me its main component is ethylene glycol, which raises the boiling point to over 120°C. When driving on highways in summer, engine temperatures can easily exceed 100 degrees – ordinary water would boil over. Plus, it prevents rust and corrosion, protecting the radiator and engine pipes. My neighbor didn't change the coolant in time last year, and ended up with a corroded radiator that leaked, costing nearly two thousand yuan to fix. Remember to replace it every 2-3 years or 50,000 km, with a freezing point at least 10°C below your local minimum temperature. Quality matters in summer too.
Back when I ran the repair shop, this was a common concern – you really can't skip on antifreeze in summer. Its technical name is coolant, and its primary function is year-round heat dissipation. During summer heatwaves and traffic jams, the cooling system endures tremendous pressure. High-quality antifreeze has a boiling point 20% higher than water, preventing overheating risks. The corrosion inhibitors in its formula protect metal components from rust – a seized water pump would spell real trouble. Last month, a client used tap water as substitute, resulting in severe scale buildup inside the engine water jackets. Regular checks of fluid level and concentration are advised; replace it when appearing cloudy or discolored.
Despite the name 'antifreeze,' its role is even more crucial in summer. Under high temperatures, ordinary water boils quickly, but professional coolant remains stable above 120 degrees. It protects metal pipes from rust and rubber components from aging. I always remind my friends, especially before long summer drives, to check the fluid level. If it's below the minimum mark, top it up with the same type of product—mixing different colored fluids can cause gel formation. Here's a handy tip: the cooling system is pressurized, so always wait for the engine to cool completely before opening the cap.
