What are the precautions for adding antifreeze to a car?
2 Answers
The precautions for adding antifreeze to a car are as follows: It is necessary to use the same brand of antifreeze. Different brands of antifreeze may have different production formulas. If mixed, various additives may undergo chemical reactions, causing the additives to become ineffective. The basic indicators of antifreeze are the freezing point and boiling point. The freezing points of antifreeze available on the market include -15℃, -25℃, -30℃, -40℃, etc. Generally, it is advisable to choose one that is at least 10℃ lower than the lowest temperature in your region. For vehicles that operate for long periods, such as taxis, high-quality antifreeze should generally be replaced once a year. For vehicles with shorter operating times, it can be replaced every two years or every 30,000 kilometers. To prevent excessive foam formation, which reduces the heat exchange efficiency between the antifreeze and engine components, ensure the product is within its validity period when adding it. Long-lasting antifreeze can have a validity period of up to three years. If suspended matter, sediment, or signs of deterioration or discoloration are found in the antifreeze, it should be replaced promptly, and the system should be cleaned.
I've been driving for twenty years and have added antifreeze to many cars. The first key is to operate when the engine is cold; opening the radiator cap when the engine is hot can scald you like a pressure cooker. The antifreeze type must be precise, and different colors cannot be mixed, especially ethylene glycol and propylene glycol, as mixing them can cause gelation and clog the pipes. In the north, where temperatures drop to -30°C, you need antifreeze with a freezing point of -45°C, while in the south, choose one with at least -25°C. The filling amount should be kept between the min-max marks on the expansion tank for safety—overfilling can cause overflow during high-temperature expansion, corroding the wiring. Don’t forget to replace the antifreeze every two years or 40,000 km; aged antifreeze, like expired milk, can cause engine rust. Before replacement, remember to completely drain the old fluid and flush the radiator, as mixing old and new fluids reduces cooling efficiency.
