Engine coolants, often interchangeably referred to as antifreeze, are the lifeblood of your vehicle’s cooling system. These essential fluids help regulate engine temperature, prevent freezing, protect against corrosion, and extend the life of your engine. While the world of engine coolants may seem complex, this guide will provide you with all the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about coolants for your vehicle.
What is Engine Coolant?
Engine coolant, a vital component in your vehicle, is a mixture of glycol, water, and inhibitors. In a concentrated coolant, glycol makes up 90-95% of the mixture, with water at 1-3%, and the rest comprises additives or inhibitors. This combination results in a nearly clear liquid, to which a trace of coolant dye is added for easy identification.
Ethylene Glycol vs. Propylene Glycol
Both ethylene and propylene glycol share characteristics like high boiling and low freezing points. However, there are crucial differences. Ethylene glycol is more toxic, making it a poor choice in applications where accidental ingestion or contact may occur. In contrast, propylene glycol has low toxicity and is recommended for such situations. Ethylene glycol has lower viscosity, performing better at lower temperatures, while propylene glycol has a higher viscosity and a higher freezing point.
Coolant Dye or Coolant Colour
Coolant dye aids in identifying fluid leakage issues but does not indicate the coolant’s formulation. Different formulations can share the same color because manufacturers use the same dye. Common coolant dye colors include green, blue, red, orange, yellow, violet, and pink. It’s crucial to read the coolant’s formulation, as color alone should not guide your selection.
The Functions of Engine Coolant
Engine coolants designed for internal combustion engines serve several important functions:
- Heat Control: They efficiently transfer heat generated by the engine, preventing overheating, especially in warm climates and under various operating conditions.
- Freezing Prevention: Coolants contain antifreeze additives that keep the cooling system from freezing in extreme cold.
- Corrosion Protection: Additives in coolants reduce engine and component rust, corrosion, and cavitation, thereby extending the engine’s lifespan.
- Erosion Prevention: Coolants reduce electrolysis within the cooling system and engine, preventing the erosion of engine components.
- Extended Life: They not only extend engine life but also the lifespan of rubber and plastic components within the coolant system.
- Lubrication: Coolants provide lubrication for the water pump seal, ensuring its proper functioning.
Evolution of Coolant Technology
Engine coolants consist of propylene or ethylene glycol, water, and additives. The additives used in coolant technology make the difference. Here are some common types of coolant technology:
1. Organic Acid Technology (OAT): OAT coolants use organic acids and corrosion inhibitors, offering extended service life of up to 5 years in light-duty applications and up to 3 years in heavy-duty ones.
2. Hybrid OAT (HOAT): Some coolants use hybrid OAT technology, offering service life up to 5 years in light-duty applications and 3 years in heavy-duty ones, thanks to supplemental coolant additives (SCAs).
3. Silicate Organic Acid Technology (Si-OAT): Si-OAT coolants use silicates and HOAT technology, meeting the requirements of modern engines produced by European vehicle manufacturers.
Coolants for Different Applications
With various coolant technologies, you might wonder which one is right for your vehicle. Different original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) use different technologies, so it’s crucial to consult the manufacturer’s specifications when choosing a coolant. These specifications are based on service life, corrosion protection, and chemical compatibility. Consider factors like operating conditions and environmental temperatures when making your selection.
Mixing Coolant in the Proper Ratio
Coolants come in concentrated and ready-to-use forms, each offering specific temperature protection. Concentrated coolants are mixed with deionized or demineralized water in a 50/50 ratio to protect against freezing. Ready-to-use coolants are pre-mixed, making it easier to avoid using the wrong ratio. It’s essential never to mix different types of coolants, as their additive packages and inhibitors may be incompatible, leading to corrosion and problems.
How to Check Coolant Level
Checking your coolant level is a straightforward process:
- Park your vehicle on a flat surface to allow fluids to settle.
- Let the engine and cooling system cool down to avoid accidents when opening the reservoir cap.
- Locate the coolant tank under the hood, typically white, and with a scale indicating minimum and maximum levels.
- Compare the manufacturer’s recommended coolant level to your system.
- Check for coolant that’s dark, muddy, or contaminated, which may signal the need for a complete coolant replacement.
Remember that coolants can contain toxic components, so handle them with care, avoid spills and do not pour it down the drains.
Understanding engine coolants is essential for maintaining your vehicle’s health and performance. With various technologies and formulations, consulting your vehicle’s manufacturer’s recommendations is key to choosing the right coolant. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your engine stays cool and protected, no matter the conditions.
