What should be added to the car radiator?
3 Answers
Generally, antifreeze should be added to the car radiator. Antifreeze has the effects of preventing rust and having a low freezing point. The colder the region, the lower the freezing point of the antifreeze should be. Tap water is prone to boiling, as its boiling point is lower than that of antifreeze, which can easily lead to higher water temperatures. Precautions when using antifreeze: 1. Try to use the same brand of antifreeze: Different brands of antifreeze use different metal corrosion inhibitors, so they should not be mixed. 2. The validity period of antifreeze is mostly two years: When adding, ensure the product is within its validity period; when replacing, drain the old liquid completely, clean the cooling system thoroughly, and then add the new liquid. 3. Avoid diluting with water: Traditional inorganic antifreeze should not be diluted with water, as it can cause sedimentation, severely affecting the normal function of the antifreeze. Organic antifreeze can be diluted with water, but not too much. 4. Flocculent sedimentation: Some antifreeze may develop a small amount of flocculent sedimentation after being stored for a year, which is mostly caused by the precipitation of additives and does not mean it should be discarded. However, if a large amount of granular sedimentation appears, it indicates the antifreeze has deteriorated and should no longer be used.
The liquid added to the radiator is definitely antifreeze coolant, which is specifically designed to protect the engine. This fluid is mainly a proportional mixture of water and antifreeze, preventing boiling in summer and freezing in winter. Having driven for over ten years, I always buy pre-mixed coolant to save the hassle of mixing it myself. The key point is never to casually add tap water, as it contains minerals that can corrode the pipes and water pump. Issues might not be noticeable in the short term, but over time, it can clog the circulation system. When checking, wait until the car is completely cool before opening the cap to check the fluid level—it's safe as long as it's between the low and high marks. If the level is low, top it up immediately; it's best to replace it regularly, every two to three years, as per the car's manual. The color must also match—different cars use red, green, or blue coolants, and mixing different formulations is a no-go. Make it a habit to glance at the radiator before driving; this simple check can save you from major repairs, keeping you safe and saving money.
The radiator must be filled with antifreeze coolant, which is crucial for protecting the engine from overheating. I learned this shortly after I started driving my car: coolant is typically a 50/50 mix of water and chemical additives, capable of absorbing heat and preventing corrosion. If you simply add tap water or mineral water, it might work temporarily, but it can cause rust on parts and eventually lead to costly repairs. During every maintenance check, I make it a habit to ensure the fluid level is above the minimum line and keep it clean. Adding coolant is simple—just buy a branded premixed solution and pour it in, but don’t overfill. Be extra cautious during summer heat or long drives to prevent engine overheating, as it saves a lot of trouble. I recommend beginners follow the manual, understand their vehicle type, and avoid cutting corners with cheap products—safety on the road is what matters most.
