What is the Difference Between Radiator Additive and Antifreeze?
2 Answers
Radiator additive and antifreeze differ mainly in their freezing points. Radiator additive is a type of supplement primarily added to antifreeze coolant to clean scale deposits in the radiator and engine block, while antifreeze is added to the radiator to prevent freezing and aid in heat dissipation. However, the freezing point of radiator additive is higher than that of antifreeze, making it more prone to freezing when used alone. Composition of Antifreeze: The main components of antifreeze are: 50% purified water, 40% methanol, and 10% other substances. Types of Antifreeze: Antifreeze is generally categorized into three types: ethanol-water based, glycerol-water based, and ethylene glycol-water based. Can Different Antifreezes Be Mixed? It is essential to use the same brand of antifreeze. Different brands may have varying production formulas, and mixing them could lead to chemical reactions between additives, rendering them ineffective. How to Choose Antifreeze: The key indicators for antifreeze are its freezing and boiling points. Available in the market are antifreezes with freezing points of -15°C, -25°C, -30°C, and -40°C. It is advisable to choose one with a freezing point at least 10°C lower than the lowest temperature in your region.
The term 'Shui Xiang Bao' sounds like a colloquial name, but it's actually a type of antifreeze, and there's not much difference in my daily car use. 'Shui Xiang Bao' might be a term used by certain brands or an old-fashioned name, and it's used to protect the car's cooling system, mainly to prevent the engine from cracking in winter. Antifreeze is a more standardized term, with functions including freeze protection, boil-over resistance, and corrosion prevention. Both should be replaced approximately every two years, and don't mix different brands, as it can easily cause bubbles or corrode the radiator. I've driven over a hundred thousand kilometers and always used the product recommended by the manufacturer. The price isn't the most important factor; the key is the right concentration—cooling in summer, freeze protection in winter, and keeping the engine running smoothly. Always keep an eye on the fluid level and top it up in time when it's low to avoid breaking down on the road.
