What is the red liquid next to the engine?

[DiFinley]

The red liquid in the engine compartment of the car is antifreeze coolant. It doesn't need to be filled to the top; just add it up to the upper mark. Introduction to Coolant: The full name should be antifreeze coolant, meaning a coolant with antifreeze function. Antifreeze prevents the coolant from freezing and expanding during cold seasons when the car is parked, which could crack the radiator and damage the engine cylinder block. Functions of Coolant: It protects the engine cooling system from rust and corrosion, effectively inhibits scale formation, prevents the radiator from overheating, reduces coolant evaporation, and provides lubrication for the water pump thermostat and other components. It offers long-term comprehensive protection for the radiator, can be mixed with various high-quality coolants and antifreeze that meet standards, and avoids damage to the cooling system caused by using inferior coolant.

[AlanLynn]

When I see red liquid near the engine, my first thought is a coolant leak, because the antifreeze used in the cooling systems of most cars is red—this is intentionally dyed by manufacturers to distinguish it from other fluids. Coolant is responsible for cooling the engine, and if it all leaks out, the engine can overheat and be ruined, costing thousands to repair. During my routine checks, I first check the fluid level—open the hood and look for the transparent coolant reservoir marked with min and max lines. If it’s below the min line, it needs topping up. But don’t use tap water; use specialized antifreeze instead, as tap water can cause scale buildup and clog the system. Common leak points include the water pump, radiator, or hose connections, often due to aging or impact damage. If you spot a leak, stop driving immediately. Don’t push the engine—wait for it to cool down, add some fluid as a temporary fix, then take it to a repair shop for a thorough inspection. Proper coolant maintenance can extend engine life by over 5 years.

[SanPeter]

Last time I was cleaning my car, I noticed a red stain in the engine bay. At first, I thought it was something serious, but upon checking, I realized it was coolant leakage. Coolant is usually dyed red for easy identification and functions like the engine's blood, preventing it from overheating. The most common causes of leakage are aging radiators or loose hoses, especially during the high temperatures of summer. That time, I ignored it, and after driving on the highway for a while, the dashboard's temperature warning light came on, nearly causing the engine to overheat and stall—a lesson I won't forget. Now, I've developed the habit of checking the coolant level every month by lifting the cap to ensure it's within the normal range. If it's low, I top it up with dedicated coolant up to the maximum mark, making sure never to mix it with tap water or different brands of coolant, as this can cause chemical reactions and corrode metal parts. The mechanic advised that changing the coolant every two years can save a lot of trouble, so I stick to that schedule.

[VonZoe]

When I spotted the red liquid near the engine, I immediately suspected a cooling system leak. Coolant is dyed red to distinguish it from engine oil and brake fluid, with leaks typically occurring near the radiator or engine block. Its leakage poses high risks, as engine overheating can lead to stalling or worse. Upon noticing signs of leakage, I promptly pulled over to check for steam or dripping points. The immediate solution is to top up the coolant to the safe level, but always use OEM antifreeze to maintain compatibility. It's best not to drive under such conditions—find the nearest repair shop to inspect the water pump or hoses. Neglecting minor coolant issues could result in costly engine overhauls.

[DelBella]

When I noticed red stains near the engine, I suspected a coolant issue. The cooling system uses red fluid as a warning, and leaks are usually caused by seal wear or corrosion. Regular checks can prevent problems: I pop the hood every quarter to inspect the coolant reservoir level, keeping it near the midline. If it's low, I promptly top it up with dedicated antifreeze—never mixing colors or casually adding water. It's essential to identify the exact leak point; replacing a hose or tightening a connection often solves it—simple DIY fixes that save money. With proper maintenance, summer driving becomes much more worry-free.