Should You Add Antifreeze in Hot Weather?
3 Answers
Antifreeze should be added in hot weather. The original antifreeze solution is a high-concentration ethylene glycol-based type, and its freezing point varies with the concentration of ethylene glycol in the aqueous solution. The method for adding coolant is as follows: 1. Unscrew the radiator cap, open the radiator drain valve, and drain the antifreeze; 2. Insert a rubber hose into the radiator filler neck, turn on the tap to flush the engine cooling system; 3. After draining the water from the cooling system, close the radiator drain valve; 4. Unscrew the reservoir cap, add antifreeze until the liquid level reaches the MAX mark; 5. Tighten the reservoir cap; 6. Start the engine, let it idle for 2 to 3 minutes, then unscrew the radiator cap to release some air from the cooling system. The antifreeze level will drop, so replenish it again until it reaches the MAX mark.
With over twenty years of driving experience, I've learned that antifreeze is definitely not just a winter necessity. In summer, when the engine is under heavy load and temperatures soar, the anti-boiling agents in antifreeze prevent the liquid from boiling, protecting the engine from overheating. Should you add antifreeze in hot weather? The key factor isn't the season but the fluid level. Regularly check the coolant level in the radiator or expansion tank—if it's below the MIN line, top it up with the same type of antifreeze mixture. I once experienced engine overheating on the highway, nearly breaking down, all because I neglected quarterly checks. I recommend checking the fluid level monthly, preferably using a dedicated antifreeze mixture rather than tap water to avoid scaling and pipe corrosion. Additionally, the quality of antifreeze affects its lifespan—generally, it should be replaced every two years, and the system should be thoroughly flushed during replacement to avoid residue. Parking in the shade or using a sunshade in summer can also help with cooling. Safe driving is always the top priority.
As a young car enthusiast, I often browse automotive forums to gain knowledge. Antifreeze plays a crucial role in hot weather due to its anti-boiling and anti-corrosion properties, which help the engine dissipate heat. If you're running the air conditioning in summer traffic, the increased engine load combined with insufficient coolant levels can easily trigger an overheating warning. Should you add antifreeze in hot weather? It's not necessarily about seasonal topping up, but regular level checks are essential—after the engine cools, open the cap to ensure the fluid sits between MAX and MIN marks. If low, top up with a 50/50 premix—a small cost that prevents major issues. Always glance at the temperature gauge before driving, and avoid prolonged idling in extreme heat. By the way, replacing old antifreeze is affordable (around 100 RMB), with manufacturer-recommended biyearly flushes. Routinely check that cooling fans operate properly to nip potential problems early.
