What is the appropriate antifreeze level?
2 Answers
It should be added between the maximum and minimum marks. Too much antifreeze can cause overflow, while too little can lead to poor engine cooling and potential engine damage. Additional information: Functions of antifreeze: 1. In cold weather, it prevents system failures and cracks in components due to cooling issues, while also managing rust prevention and preventing excessive scale buildup that could clog pipes. 2. It provides anti-corrosion, anti-scale, anti-boiling, anti-freezing, and anti-rust functions. Below are precautions when using antifreeze: 1. Try to use the same brand of antifreeze. 2. Most antifreeze products have a two-year validity period; ensure the product is within its validity period when adding. 3. Avoid mixing with water. Traditional inorganic antifreeze should not be mixed with water, as it can form precipitates that severely impair its normal functions. Organic antifreeze can be mixed with water but not excessively. 4. For vehicles using antifreeze, never directly add tap water; instead, use distilled or deionized water.
I've been driving for over ten years and always check the antifreeze before seasonal changes to ensure safety. Generally, using a refractometer or test pen to measure the concentration at around 50% is ideal, maintaining a freezing point between -35°C to -40°C. Too high a concentration, like 70%, may reduce cooling efficiency and cause engine overheating; too low, like 30%, can freeze in cold weather and damage the water pump. Regular testing not only prevents freezing accidents but also protects the radiator from corrosion and rust. Buying a simple tool to do it at home is convenient, and remember to replace it annually or every 20,000 kilometers. This way, driving becomes more reassuring and saves on costly repairs.
