Should You Still Add Antifreeze to Your Car in Summer?
2 Answers
Adding antifreeze to your car in summer is necessary. Antifreeze, also known as coolant, is designed to allow the car to continue operating in low winter temperatures. Engine coolant contains substances that lower the freezing point of water, preventing the cooling system from freezing in cold weather. The composition of antifreeze includes: calcium chloride from inorganic compounds, and methanol, ethanol, ethylene glycol, glycerol, lubricating oil, and purified water from organic compounds. The functions of antifreeze are: 1. Providing freeze protection for the engine against low-temperature environments; 2. Preventing the coolant from freezing and cracking the radiator or damaging the engine block and cylinder head when parked in cold winter conditions; 3. Offering efficient heat dissipation.
Don’t be fooled by the name – you really need coolant in summer too. This stuff isn’t just for winter antifreeze protection; it’s even more crucial in high temperatures. Engine operating temperatures easily exceed 90°C, where plain water would boil instantly. Coolant’s boiling point reaches over 120°C, making it vital for preventing overheating. Plus, its anti-corrosion formula protects radiators and coolant passages – tap water would cause scale buildup and clog the system over time. Last year my buddy tried saving money with water, only to end up with a rusted-through radiator costing thousands in repairs. Nowadays, long-life coolants typically last two years – just check the level before summer and top up with the OEM-specified color if it’s below the MIN mark.
