What happens if you add tap water to a car radiator?

[DaniellaDella]

Adding tap water to a car radiator will alter the properties of the coolant and prevent it from functioning properly. Only specialized radiator fluid or qualified antifreeze should be added to a car radiator. The radiator's function is to dissipate heat from the working engine, preventing mechanical overheating and metal expansion that could affect performance. The full name of antifreeze is antifreeze coolant, meaning it is a coolant with antifreeze properties, which prevents the coolant from freezing and cracking the radiator or damaging the engine block or cylinder head when the car is parked in cold winter conditions. Antifreeze needs to be replaced regularly, and it is recommended that car owners replace it every two years. Many car owners believe that antifreeze is only used in winter, but in fact, it should be used year-round.