Should You Add Water or Antifreeze to a Car's Radiator?
3 Answers
A car's radiator should be filled with antifreeze. If water is added instead, scaling may occur when the water heats up, potentially clogging the cooling system. Generally, vehicle antifreeze should be replaced every 2 years or 40,000 kilometers. This is just a reference interval. For commercial vehicles with higher mileage, the replacement cycle should be shorter. Since driving conditions vary for each vehicle, the replacement should be based on actual usage. Regularly check the antifreeze level and replenish it promptly if it is insufficient. If suspended particles, sediment, or signs of deterioration or discoloration are observed in the antifreeze, replace it immediately and clean the system. The key indicators of antifreeze are its freezing point and boiling point. Market-available antifreeze comes in various freezing points, such as -15°C, -25°C, -30°C, and -40°C. It is advisable to choose an antifreeze with a freezing point at least 10°C lower than the lowest temperature in your region. Always use the same brand of antifreeze. Different brands may have varying formulations, and mixing them could lead to chemical reactions among the additives, rendering them ineffective.
I see many people asking what to add to a car's radiator—it's actually coolant, not pure water. Coolant prevents the radiator from freezing and bursting in winter and avoids engine overheating in summer. Pure water is prone to freezing or boiling, which not only damages components but also poses driving risks. Coolant contains special additives to prevent rust and extend the radiator's lifespan. It's recommended to regularly check the fluid level and top it up with a dedicated coolant mixture when it falls below the standard. Generally, a complete replacement every two years ensures year-round protection, saving both money and hassle. Using water by mistake may lead to corrosion and leaks, resulting in higher repair costs. In short, from a safety perspective, coolant is the preferred choice—don't cut corners by using tap water.
Using antifreeze in the car radiator is more cost-effective than using water. Although pure water is cheaper and saves a small amount of money in the short term, in the long run, antifreeze protects the engine from corrosion and freezing, avoiding expensive repair costs. Antifreeze has the characteristics of a high boiling point and low freezing point, ensuring it doesn't evaporate in hot weather or freeze in cold conditions. I've noticed that many people who use water end up with scale buildup and rust in their radiators, leading to costly part replacements. Using antifreeze maintains system stability, and replacing it every two to three years is not expensive. Overall, it saves on repair costs and can even enhance vehicle performance. Remember to choose the correct ratio of antifreeze mixture for your car model and avoid using low-quality products that could affect performance.
