What is the purpose of antifreeze?
2 Answers
Antifreeze is a type of coolant containing special additives, primarily used in liquid-cooled engine cooling systems. It offers excellent performance in preventing freezing in winter, boiling in summer, and resisting scale and corrosion throughout the year. The main components of antifreeze are 50% pure water, 40% methanol, and 10% other substances. Method for replacing antifreeze: Before completely replacing the antifreeze, conduct a thorough inspection to check for any signs of leakage or cracks in the pipelines, with a particular focus on the five-way water pipe. The five-way pipe is named for its five connecting interfaces to various parts. Antifreeze flows through the five-way pipe and is then distributed to different parts of the car to function. If there is any leakage of antifreeze in this section, replace the water pipe or re-secure the interface as needed. Drain the old antifreeze, then flush the liquid channels with clean water. Add clean water to the antifreeze reservoir, then continue adding water to the reservoir so that it flows continuously through the engine cooling system. Start the engine and let it idle for 3 to 5 minutes to circulate the water. The water initially flowing out of the reservoir may have a faint pink color. Continue adding clean water until the water coming out is clear. Note: Do not forget to remove the heater hose and drain the water from the heater core. After draining for about an hour, add the new antifreeze through the radiator hose, which allows the antifreeze to flow quickly into the radiator. Then, add another container of antifreeze to the antifreeze reservoir until it is nearly full. Start the engine and let it run for about 10 minutes. At this point, the coolant level will drop slightly as some air is expelled from the cooling system. Add more antifreeze until it reaches the "MAXT" mark on the reservoir.
Antifreeze plays a crucial role in a car's cooling system. Having driven for over a decade, I deeply appreciate its importance. In winter, it prevents coolant from freezing and expanding, avoiding radiator and engine cracks. In summer, it raises the boiling point to prevent water from boiling and causing engine overheating or failure. Additionally, it contains anti-corrosion and anti-rust components that protect pipes and water pumps from rusting. Every autumn, I check the freezing point and maintain a 50% antifreeze to 50% water ratio to ensure optimal performance. Once, I neglected to replace it, and during a harsh winter, the engine hood got stuck, costing me a fortune in repairs. This reminded me that regular maintenance is essential—both for safety and cost savings. Always use OEM antifreeze, as mixing different brands can reduce effectiveness. Good antifreeze makes your car more durable.
