Why Does Antifreeze Decrease?
3 Answers
Antifreeze decrease reasons: 1. The working temperature inside the engine combustion chamber is very high, and the engine water passage is close to the combustion chamber, so the high temperature makes antifreeze easy to evaporate; 2. The engine cooling system consists of many components such as radiator, water pipe, water pump, thermostat, these components working under high temperature for a long time will age, causing the cooling system to leak. Antifreeze, also known as non-freezing liquid, the full name is automobile antifreeze coolant. Antifreeze is the cooling medium for the internal combustion engine's circulating cooling system, mainly composed of antifreeze agent, corrosion inhibitor, defoaming agent, coloring agent, mildew inhibitor, and buffer agent.
I've been driving for thirty years and have seen many cases of coolant loss. The most common issue is minor leaks in the system, such as loose hose connections or aging radiator seepage, especially noticeable in older vehicles. Another reason is natural evaporation during high-temperature driving, just like water boiling away in a kettle over time. Long-term neglect can also lead to gradual depletion, so I recommend checking the fluid level monthly by opening the cap. Additionally, if gaskets or cylinder heads are damaged, coolant can seep into the combustion chamber and get burned off, which is quite dangerous and may cause overheating or engine stalling. Safety first—always keep an eye out for fluid stains on the ground and get your car checked at a repair shop promptly to avoid major issues. Coolant maintenance is crucial for engine longevity and driving safety. Just include a quick check during routine maintenance; it's a small investment with significant returns.
As a young car enthusiast who enjoys tinkering with vehicles, I believe there are several key reasons for coolant loss. First is internal leakage, such as a damaged cylinder head gasket, where the fluid leaks into the exhaust pipe and burns off—this issue is prone to occur after aggressive driving. If you notice a sweet smell in the exhaust after parking, be alert. Second is external leakage, where hose connections loosen or corrode, especially on bumpy roads where vibrations worsen the leak. You can check for wetness at the joints using a tissue. Third is evaporation loss, where coolant volatilizes under high temperatures, particularly after long highway drives in summer when the fluid level drops quickly. Regularly check that the coolant reservoir level is above the MIN line. Also, watch out for radiator blockages or water pump failures, which disrupt fluid circulation, reduce efficiency, and accelerate evaporation. If the fluid level is low, top it up with dedicated coolant as soon as possible—avoid mixing with water to prevent corrosion and freezing risks. Maintenance is simple; a monthly check is sufficient.
