Why Does the Antifreeze in a Car Decrease?
3 Answers
The decrease in antifreeze in a car is due to three main reasons: natural consumption, coolant leakage, and antifreeze entering the combustion chamber and participating in combustion. How to Choose Antifreeze: The basic indicators of antifreeze are its freezing point and boiling point. On the market, antifreeze comes in several specifications with freezing points such as -15°C, -25°C, -30°C, and -40°C. Generally, it is advisable to choose an antifreeze with a freezing point at least 10°C lower than the lowest temperature in your region. Can Different Antifreeze Brands Be Mixed? It is necessary to use the same brand of antifreeze. Different brands of antifreeze may have varying production formulas. If mixed, the various additives may undergo chemical reactions, rendering them ineffective. Antifreeze Replacement Cycle: For vehicles that run for long periods, such as taxis, high-quality antifreeze should generally be replaced once a year. For vehicles with shorter running times, replacement can be done every two years or every 30,000 kilometers. To prevent excessive foam formation, which can reduce the heat exchange efficiency between the antifreeze and engine components, ensure the product is within its validity period when adding it. Long-lasting antifreeze can have a validity period of up to three years. If suspended matter, sediment, or signs of deterioration or discoloration are found in the antifreeze, it should be replaced promptly, and the system should be cleaned.
As an ordinary car owner who drives to work every day, I find it quite common for the coolant level to drop. First, there's normal evaporation, especially during hot summers or long-distance driving when the engine gets extremely hot, causing the water in the coolant to gradually evaporate. Over time, the fluid level naturally decreases. Another major issue is minor leaks, such as loose radiator connections or aging/cracked hoses, which can drip into the engine bay or under the car—I sometimes notice wet spots when checking the ground. Additionally, a worn-out water pump seal may also cause seepage. While coolant loss isn’t a huge problem, it shouldn’t be ignored. Regularly checking and topping up with the same type of fluid can save you from costly repairs. Otherwise, engine overheating or breakdowns could become a serious hassle—I’ve narrowly avoided such a situation before.
As an avid car enthusiast who's researched this, the most common cause of coolant loss is external leakage dripping from radiator hose connections or water pump shafts, visible as fluid traces under the car. More severe cases may involve internal system issues, like engine head gasket failure allowing coolant to seep into combustion chambers (indicated by white exhaust smoke). Water pump failures or corroded heater core pipes can also cause slow leaks. Design factors like faulty radiator cap pressure valves accelerate fluid loss under high pressure. I always remind friends to address leaks early - prolonged neglect causing overheating and engine seizure means costly engine replacement.
