What Should Be Added to a Car Radiator?

[LeCaleb]

Car radiators should be filled with antifreeze. Here are more details: 1. Precautions for adding antifreeze. The rust inhibitors, defoamers, and pigments in imported cars are chemically different from those in domestic car antifreeze. Therefore, it is important to choose the appropriate antifreeze based on the vehicle's origin, and it is advisable to opt for all-season antifreeze whenever possible. 2. Benefits of adding antifreeze to the car radiator. Antifreeze has rust-preventing properties and a low freezing point—colder regions require antifreeze with lower freezing points. Antifreeze produces less rust compared to tap water, benefits the smoothness of the engine's water passages, and reduces the likelihood of the radiator freezing.

[VanElle]

When I first started driving, I also made the mistake of thinking it was okay to just add any water to the radiator, and almost ruined the engine. Now I know better—the radiator needs specialized automotive coolant, which is a mixture of antifreeze. The ratio depends on the season and the car model. In winter, I use 70% antifreeze and 30% water to prevent freezing and cracking in low temperatures; in summer, a 50% mix is sufficient, mainly for temperature control. Always check the car manual for the recommended type and avoid buying cheap, off-brand products. I check the fluid level every week—if it’s below the MIN line, top it up immediately, or else leaks could cause overheating and breakdowns. By the way, keep the radiator cap clean too, as dust buildup can affect cooling. A little maintenance effort goes a long way in avoiding costly repairs later.

[BentleyMarie]

As a car enthusiast, I've been paying close attention to the radiator and always insist on using high-quality coolant. There are mainly two types on the market: ethylene glycol and propylene glycol, and I prefer non-corrosive universal brands. The typical mixing ratio is 50% antifreeze to 50% water, which provides freeze protection down to -30°C while preventing overheating. I've checked - using water alone would definitely cause rust, and the rust particles could clog the coolant passages. During routine maintenance, I use tools to measure density and ensure the correct concentration; before seasonal changes, I adjust the mixture to avoid engine efficiency loss. Choosing the right coolant color is also crucial - green suits older vehicles, while orange is compatible with newer systems. Don't mix them up and trigger chemical reactions.

[StephenMarie]

I bought my car not long ago and mistakenly used the wrong water for the radiator for the first time, which caused the cooling system to leak. Later, I learned that a professional antifreeze mixture should be used, with the ratio being 50% water and 50% antifreeze as per the manual. Every time I top it up, I first check the fluid level indicator—it's safe only between the min and max marks. Avoid using tap water directly, as it contains impurities that can corrode the pipes. I regularly use simple test strips to check the pH level; if it's too acidic, problems can arise easily. Maintenance reminders advise changing the coolant every two years to maintain its effectiveness. Newcomers should consult experienced drivers more to avoid unnecessary detours.