What are the consequences of mixing different antifreeze?
2 Answers
Different brands of antifreeze may have varying production formulas. If mixed, chemical reactions between multiple additives are likely to occur, resulting in the additives becoming ineffective. How to choose antifreeze: The basic indicators of antifreeze are its freezing point and boiling point. In the market, antifreeze is available with freezing points of -15°C, -25°C, -30°C, -40°C, etc. Generally, it is advisable to choose antifreeze with a freezing point at least 10°C lower than the lowest temperature in your region. How to determine if antifreeze is low: Observe the antifreeze warning light on the dashboard. If it lights up, it may indicate low antifreeze levels, although it could also be due to excessively high cylinder temperatures. Check the antifreeze reservoir. If the fluid level is below the minimum mark (MIN), do not continue driving; add antifreeze promptly. Check the fluid level marks on the antifreeze tank. The antifreeze level should normally be between the maximum and minimum marks. If the antifreeze is below the minimum mark, it indicates a deficiency.
As an amateur car enthusiast, I always enjoy tinkering with car maintenance. That time, to save trouble, I mixed two different brands of coolant, and it turned into a big mess. The additives reacted and formed a gel-like sediment that clogged the cooling pipes, causing the engine's heat dissipation efficiency to plummet and the water temperature to skyrocket, nearly leading to engine seizure. The mechanic said the internal corrosion accelerated, damaging the aluminum radiator and hoses, and I had to flush the entire system, costing me several hundred bucks. The lesson is clear: don't mix products based on gut feeling—different formulations like IAT and OAT have obvious chemical conflicts that can affect engine longevity. Now, I stick to one brand and always perform a flush before refilling to avoid residue.
