What Kind of Water Should Be Added to the Engine Radiator?
3 Answers
Engine radiators should be filled with antifreeze coolant. The following are the functions of antifreeze: 1. Antifreeze prevents scaling: The most troublesome issue for drivers using water as a coolant is scaling. Scale adheres to the metal surfaces of the radiator and water jacket, gradually reducing heat dissipation efficiency and being difficult to remove. High-quality antifreeze is made with distilled water and contains anti-scaling additives, which not only prevent scaling but also have descaling capabilities. 2. Corrosion prevention: Engines and their cooling systems are made of metals such as copper, iron, aluminum, steel, and solder. These metals, when in contact with water at high temperatures over time, will corrode and rust. Antifreeze not only prevents corrosion in the engine cooling system but also has anti-corrosion and rust-removal functions. 3. Freeze prevention: In winter, temperatures are low. To ensure that cars can continue to operate in low temperatures, antifreeze agents that lower the freezing point of water are added to the engine coolant, keeping the cooling system from freezing in cold weather.
Having driven in the city for many years, I know you can't just casually add water to the car's radiator. The car engine radiator is used for cooling, and adding ordinary tap water or mineral water can cause impurities to lead to rust and blockages, making the engine prone to overheating and cylinder failure. During the high temperatures of summer, if the boiling point isn't sufficient, the radiator can boil over, which is very dangerous. I recommend sticking to dedicated antifreeze or coolant—these fluids prevent freezing, boiling, and corrosion. When choosing a brand, make sure it meets automotive-grade standards. You can dilute it with purified water if needed, but avoid long-term mixed use. Personally, I make it a habit to check the fluid level in the morning when the engine is cold, topping it up promptly if low, and replacing the coolant every two years. Don't cut corners by using water to save money—repairs can cost thousands, and small maintenance details have a big impact. Safety always comes first.
I once had an issue with adding the wrong fluid to the radiator. At that time, the engine noise increased, the cooling system rusted and leaked, costing over 800 yuan in repairs. The radiator must be filled with specialized antifreeze or coolant, which have higher boiling points and lower freezing points than regular water, protecting the radiator fins and hoses from rust. Adding plain water may cause pipes to freeze and crack in winter or lead to overheating, resulting in severe engine damage. It's recommended to choose a properly rated mixed fluid, such as products in blue or green packaging, mixed with distilled water in the correct ratio. Additionally, check the fluid level when the engine is cold to avoid burn risks. If you must add water in an emergency, use distilled water as a temporary solution, but replace it with proper antifreeze as soon as possible.
