What Kind of Water Should Be Added to the Engine Radiator?
3 Answers
Under normal circumstances, the engine radiator should be filled with antifreeze coolant. Additional information: 1. Types of antifreeze coolant: Antifreeze coolant has rust-prevention properties and a low freezing point. The colder the region, the lower the freezing point of the antifreeze coolant should be. Tap water is prone to boiling, as its boiling point is lower than that of antifreeze coolant, which can lead to higher engine temperatures. 2. Reasons for using antifreeze coolant include: (1) Tap water causes more rust compared to antifreeze coolant. Although antifreeze coolant may still produce some rust over time, it does so at a much slower rate than tap water, which benefits the smooth flow in the engine's cooling passages. (2) If the region frequently experiences temperatures below zero degrees Celsius in winter, using antifreeze coolant can prevent the radiator from freezing overnight, especially when using high-quality antifreeze.
I've been driving for over ten years, and the radiator is something I take extra care with. When the engine heats up, it relies on the cooling system to circulate and dissipate heat. If you add plain water, the minerals in it can corrode the pipes and radiator, and in winter, it's prone to freezing and damaging components. I recommend only using dedicated antifreeze coolant, which contains ethylene glycol and rust inhibitors, capable of withstanding high and low temperatures while protecting the engine's lifespan. Check the coolant reservoir level when the engine is cold, and top it up to the marked line. Remember not to mix different colored coolants—for example, mixing green and red might cause a precipitation reaction. Replace it every two years to ensure the system runs smoothly. I never use tap water as an emergency fix—otherwise, like my friend who added water and ended up with an overheating engine needing major repairs within months, costing thousands. Taking care of these small details can save you big money and keep you safe.
The car engine cooling system absorbs heat by circulating liquid. Plain water is not suitable because it contains calcium and magnesium minerals, which can accumulate over time and clog the radiator fins, reducing efficiency and even corroding metal components. Antifreeze is specially formulated to raise the boiling point, lower the freezing point, and prevent rust. When adding it, wait for the engine to cool down, open the radiator cap, and check the fluid level in the reservoir. If it's below the MIN line, top it up with dedicated coolant up to the MAX line. I prefer a universal premixed type with a 50% water and 50% antifreeze ratio—buying pre-mixed bottled coolant is the most convenient. Note that different car models require different types of coolant, so avoid mixing them randomly. Regularly check if the fluid is clear; if it appears cloudy, replace it with fresh coolant. Proper maintenance like this ensures the engine runs more stably without overheating.
