Is it serious if the antifreeze is close to the min level?
2 Answers
It is serious if the antifreeze is close to the min level. If the antifreeze level is below the min mark, the water in the radiator may freeze, and severe lack of coolant can cause the engine to overheat. In mild cases, it may damage the engine cylinder head gasket, and in severe cases, it can lead to engine seizure. The full name of antifreeze is antifreeze coolant, which means a coolant with antifreeze properties. Antifreeze prevents the coolant from freezing and cracking the radiator or damaging the engine cylinder block or head when the vehicle is parked in cold winter temperatures. Due to temperature differences between northern and southern regions, the choice of antifreeze varies. Generally, the lower the regional temperature, the better it is to choose an antifreeze with a lower freezing point.
I've been driving for almost ten years and have seen many cases where the car's coolant level drops near the MIN line. To be honest, there's no need to panic—most of the time, it's just normal evaporation or minor loss, and you only need to top it up with some coolant. However, be cautious: if the level drops rapidly or remains consistently low, it might indicate a leak, such as aging hoses or a cracked radiator, which can easily lead to engine overheating and damage. Insufficient coolant during engine overheating significantly reduces cooling efficiency, and prolonged neglect could result in costly repairs or even roadside breakdowns. I recommend checking the coolant level every two weeks, especially before long trips, to ensure it stays safely between the MIN and MAX marks. When topping up, remember to use the same type of coolant mixed with distilled water—avoid tap water to prevent system corrosion. In short, topping up early is a hassle-free solution.
