What Kind of Water Should Be Added to a Car Radiator?
2 Answers
Here are the types of water that can be added to a car radiator: Coolant: Full name: antifreeze coolant, meaning it can both cool and prevent freezing. Antifreeze coolant is a specialized liquid 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 year-round, playing a crucial protective role for the car engine. Windshield Washer Fluid: Officially known as "automotive windshield cleaning fluid," commonly referred to as "windshield washer fluid." Its purpose is to clean the front windshield to maintain optimal transparency. High-quality windshield washer fluid mainly consists of water, alcohol, ethylene glycol, corrosion inhibitors, and various surfactants. When the front windshield is dirty or blurry, spraying some washer fluid can provide the driver with a clear and bright driving view.
I've been driving for over 20 years and have extensive experience with radiator fluid refills. The radiator should be filled with dedicated coolant, not plain water, because coolant prevents freezing in winter and overheating in summer, protecting the engine. When I was younger and didn't know better, using tap water caused rust in the radiator and engine failure, costing me unnecessary repair expenses. Now I use branded antifreeze, mixing it according to instructions, like 50% water and 50% coolant, to maintain a higher boiling point and prevent overheating. Regularly check the fluid level by opening the radiator cap when the engine is cold, and top it up if it's low. It's recommended to replace the fluid every two years to ensure the system runs smoothly and prolong the engine's lifespan. Developing good habits can save you a lot of hassle.
