Which is better for a new car's radiator: adding water or coolant?
4 Answers
It is better to add coolant to the car's radiator. Coolant is suitable for all seasons, of high quality, and ensures reliable performance. If you need to add coolant to the car's radiator, follow these steps: 1. Turn the pressure cap counterclockwise until you hear a hissing sound, then wait for the sound to stop before opening it. 2. Add an appropriate amount of coolant to the coolant expansion tank, ensuring the level is between the MAX and MIN marks. 3. With the coolant expansion tank cap open, start the engine. 4. After starting the engine, the coolant level in the tank will gradually decrease; add more coolant until the level reaches between the MAX and MIN marks on the expansion tank. 5. Reinstall the cap, ensuring the pressure cap is hand-tightened and fully seated.
I've been driving for almost twenty years, often on long trips, and I'm always worried about radiator problems. It's absolutely not okay to add pure water to a new car because water can freeze in winter, cracking the radiator, and it can boil in summer, causing overheating. Antifreeze is specially designed to withstand sub-zero temperatures, raise the boiling point, and protect metal parts from rusting. I've personally seen a friend's radiator rust and fail from using water, costing a fortune in repairs. I recommend always using antifreeze in a new car—it contains rust inhibitors and anti-foaming agents that extend engine life. Don't skimp on this small expense; just mix a reputable brand of antifreeze with 50% distilled water. Preventing major repairs is where the real savings lie. Regularly check the fluid level to ensure the cooling system runs efficiently.
As a car enthusiast who treasures my vehicle, I emphasize that new cars must use coolant. While water is cheap, it accelerates corrosion in the cooling system, especially since new car components are prone to rust and leaks. Coolant, on the other hand, neutralizes acids and alkalis and prevents clogging. My experience is to replace it annually to ensure freshness and avoid performance degradation. Radiator maintenance should never be neglected—using water can cause the pump or radiator to fail prematurely, with repairs costing thousands. Coolant also enhances heat dissipation efficiency, ensuring smoother engine operation. Remember, choose certified products and follow the mixing ratio specified in the manual. Take good care of it, and your car will last longer.
I was also confused about this when I first got my new car, haha. I asked a mechanic and learned that adding pure water is a big no-no. Water freezes at zero degrees, causing pipes to burst, and boils above forty degrees, leading to engine overheating. As for coolant, it won’t freeze and burst, won’t deform at high temperatures, and also prevents corrosion. I tried using only water once, and ended up with smoke during summer traffic jams. Newbies, don’t take the wrong path—just use coolant directly. It contains additives that protect the water pump and rubber seals, saving you hassle. I recommend buying pre-mixed coolant and adding it directly—don’t try mixing it yourself. The manual clearly states that new cars come with specialized fluid from the factory, so don’t cheap out and use the wrong type. Just remember to regularly check the coolant level.
