What Happens When a Car Runs Low on Coolant?
1 Answers
When the car's radiator runs low on coolant, the temperature inside the cylinders will rise rapidly. If the vehicle continues to operate, its components will be forced to work under excessive load, reducing the strength of parts such as pistons, piston rings, and connecting rods, potentially causing deformation. Additionally, the gaps between parts may be compromised, leading to minor issues like cylinder or bearing wear, or in severe cases, complete engine failure. If the car's radiator is out of coolant, a warning light shaped like a thermometer will appear on the dashboard, making it relatively easy to identify. It is not advisable to continue driving once this warning light appears. Without sufficient coolant, the heat generated by the engine cannot be dissipated, compromising its performance, durability, and emissions standards. In a cold engine state, the car may still operate for about 1-3 kilometers without coolant, but driving in a hot engine state can cause severe engine damage. If you encounter a coolant shortage while driving, never use tap water as a substitute. Tap water contains minerals that can form scale when heated in the radiator pipes, potentially clogging the engine's cooling system if severe. In emergencies, distilled water can be used as a temporary substitute for antifreeze. However, once you reach a nearby service point, you must immediately replenish the antifreeze. When adding antifreeze, ensure that any distilled water in the radiator is removed to prevent the antifreeze from deteriorating.
