What causes white foam in antifreeze?
2 Answers
White foam in antifreeze is a normal phenomenon and there is no need to worry. Below is relevant information: 1. The difference between antifreeze and tap water: The liquid added to the radiator is specifically designed for automotive use. The boiling point of antifreeze differs from that of ordinary water. While ordinary water boils at 100 degrees Celsius, antifreeze can reach a boiling point of 110 degrees or higher. 2. The function of antifreeze: The liquid in the car radiator is antifreeze, which has the functions of preventing freezing, rust, and boiling. However, the boiling point of the coolant is not the same for every car, as vehicles choose their coolant based on the local minimum temperature.
I've been driving for many years, and recently while checking the engine, I noticed foam-like substances in the antifreeze, which startled me. Later, after consulting a mechanic, I learned that this is usually caused by air or gas entering the cooling system. Possible reasons include a loose radiator cap seal or a damaged water pump allowing air to seep in. Antifreeze isn't pure liquid; foam indicates that there's gas boiling or agitating inside. If not addressed promptly, the car may overheat during long-distance driving, potentially damaging the engine or even causing a breakdown on the road. I think as an average car owner, upon discovering this issue, the first step should be to stop and inspect, checking if the radiator is properly sealed or trying to top up with new antifreeze. Repair costs are generally not high, but delaying can lead to expensive fixes. Regularly changing the antifreeze during routine maintenance can also prevent this problem.
