What is the difference between coolant and antifreeze?
2 Answers
The difference between engine antifreeze and coolant is that antifreeze only has antifreeze function, while coolant has both cooling and antifreeze functions. The full name of coolant is antifreeze coolant, which is a coolant with antifreeze function. Correct use of coolant can not only protect the engine's cooling system to improve heat dissipation, but also improve engine efficiency and extend its service life. The following are other functions of antifreeze coolant: 1. Anti-corrosion function: The engine and its cooling system are made of metals such as copper, iron, aluminum, steel, and solder. These metals will corrode and rust when exposed to water at high temperatures over time. Antifreeze coolant not only does not cause corrosion to the engine cooling system but also has anti-corrosion and rust removal functions. 2. High boiling point of antifreeze coolant: The boiling point of water is 100°C, while the boiling point of high-quality antifreeze coolant is usually above 110°C, making it less likely to boil during summer use. 3. Antifreeze coolant prevents scaling: The most troublesome issue for drivers using water as a coolant is scaling. Scale adheres to the metal surfaces of the radiator and water jacket, gradually reducing heat dissipation efficiency and being difficult to remove. High-quality coolant is made with distilled water and contains anti-scaling additives, which not only prevent scaling but also have descaling functions.
When I first got into cars, I couldn't tell the difference between coolant and antifreeze. Coolant is the liquid that cools down the engine, preventing it from overheating and getting damaged, especially during long summer drives when the engine runs hot. Antifreeze is actually a special type of coolant that contains chemicals like ethylene glycol, which prevents the liquid from freezing in winter and cracking the hoses or engine block. Without it, sub-zero temperatures could burst the entire system, leading to costly and time-consuming repairs. Nowadays, most products on the market are combined antifreeze-coolants, offering both overheating and freezing protection, which I find convenient and safe. Regular level checks are crucial, and I follow the manual by replacing the fluid every two years to prevent additive failure that could cause corrosion or leaks, ensuring worry-free driving.
