Should I Add Water or Antifreeze to the Radiator?
2 Answers
The radiator should be filled with antifreeze. The car radiator, also known as the heat exchanger, is a key component in the vehicle's cooling system, designed to dissipate heat. The coolant absorbs heat in the radiator, flows to the heat exchanger to release the heat, and then returns to the water jacket for circulation, achieving temperature regulation. It is a crucial part of the car engine. Adding water to the radiator can cause scale buildup, corroding the engine block and radiator, and in severe cases, lead to radiator leakage, affecting cooling efficiency and damaging the engine. Water freezes below 0°C, expanding in volume when frozen, which can crack the radiator and damage both the radiator and engine block. Additionally, water boils at 100°C, evaporating excessively, which is not conducive to cooling.
You must never just add water to the radiator; it's essential to use coolant. After running an auto repair shop for so many years, I've seen too many tragedies: one uncle tried to save money by using water, and when winter came, his car froze solid, causing the hoses to burst. The repair cost him nearly a thousand bucks. Coolant isn't just for preventing freezing—it also has a higher boiling point, preventing engine overheating and rust. The ideal ratio is generally 50% coolant and 50% deionized water, which protects the cooling system and metal components. Pure water can clog the radiator and cause corrosion, especially in older vehicles. Check the fluid level regularly, and top it up with the mixture when it's low—don't slack off. Be extra careful during summer road trips to prevent overheating and blown head gaskets. Using quality coolant means fewer car troubles, saving you both money and headaches. Always buy genuine coolant—don’t cheap out on fakes—and change it once a year to keep your engine sparkling clean.
