What are the reasons for rapid consumption of car antifreeze?
2 Answers
There are mainly the following reasons for the rapid consumption of car antifreeze, which are: 1. Unreasonable design of the cooling system; 2. Leakage occurs; 3. Poor circulation leading to fast consumption; 4. Coolant entering the cylinder and being burned. Additional information: 1. Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is a liquid composed of antifreeze additives, additives to prevent metal corrosion, and water. 2. It needs to have properties such as antifreeze, anti-corrosion, heat conduction, and non-deterioration. Currently, antifreeze with ethylene glycol as the main component, along with anti-corrosion additives and water, is commonly used. 3. The engine cooling system of internal combustion vehicles is a liquid-cooled closed-loop system composed of cylinders, jackets, and radiators. The working condition of the cooling system directly affects the normal operation of the vehicle and its service life.
The coolant is being consumed quickly, and I reckon it's mostly due to leaks in the system, such as a worn-out water pump seal or loose radiator connections, causing the fluid to slowly seep out. A while back, when I was fixing my own car, I noticed the area around the water pump was damp—turns out the sealing ring had cracked and wasn't sealing properly, which meant I had to top up the coolant every few days. Another common issue is cracks in the radiator or worn-out hose connections, especially under high temperatures; these minor problems can lead to unnoticed fluid loss. Additionally, if the engine head gasket is leaking, coolant might mix with the engine oil, which is even more troublesome. It's essential to check the oil cap for any emulsion-like substance promptly. I recommend popping the hood weekly to check for wet spots on the ground; addressing issues early can save you from major repairs.
