Choose The Trustworthy Producer Of Antifreeze And Coolant -AMC

Being a car owner, you know that taking care of your vehicle is imperative for better performance. The engine’s coolant (also referred to as antifreeze) is one of the vital components that requires a lot of attention. An engine coolant will not only prevent your vehicle from overheating but also protect it from various internal breakdowns, such as corrosion and rust. However, as a good vehicle owner or driver, it is important to understand that all coolants aren’t equally created. Choosing the wrong one, buying a cheaper coolant, or overlooking to change it can lead to unwanted costly repairs. However, how often do you change your car’s engine coolant? Which engine coolant is the best choice? This blog post will elaborate on everything you should know about engine coolants or antifreeze.

How Does The Engine Coolant Work?

Have you ever wondered about how coolants work? Engine coolants are a mixture of water and different chemical compounds, like Ethylene Glycol, which have a high boiling point and lower freezing point than water. The reservoir in your vehicle that is connected to the radiator is filled with car coolant liquid. When internal consumption produces heat, these coolant fluids absorb the heat and add antifreeze protection to the engine. This keeps the engine running optimally.

What Are The Types Of Coolants?

Coolants (or antifreeze) are divided into three different types. They are Inorganic Acid Technology (IAT), Organic Acid Technology (OAT), and Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT).

What Are The Types Of Coolants?

Coolants (or antifreeze) are divided into three different types. They are Inorganic Acid Technology (IAT), Organic Acid Technology (OAT), and Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT).

Inorganic Acid Technology (IAT) is bright green, used in older engines, and must be replaced after 50,000 miles.
Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant usually comes in orange, yellow, red, or purple color and requires replacement or flush after 150,000 miles. OAT coolant contains no silicates or phosphate for extra engine protection.
Inorganic Acid Technology (HOAT) antifreeze or coolant is typically available in orange or yellow colors, which the description on the box can identify. It requires flush or replacement after 150,000 miles.

What Happens If Your Coolant Freezes?

Coolant and antifreeze solutions maintain the temperature of engines. In rare cases, the coolant freezes due to improper mixing. If the coolant in your vehicle freezes or fails, it could cause the engine to stop working and dangerously overheat, which can burn the engine’s oils and damage the engine block. The heat will damage your engine’s metal components, leading to costly repairs. In some cases, an overheated engine can require complete replacement.

What Is The Best Ratio To Mix Your Coolant?

Generally, the mixing ratio of water to coolant should be around 50:50. This ratio, however, can be adjusted according to climate, as 50/50 only works with -13ºF to -40ºF (-25°C to -40°C). Additionally, the minimal mixing ratio should be 70:30, coolant to water, and the maximum should be 40:60. Currently, there are several coolant and antifreeze brands available in the market. The majority of them offer pre-diluted fuels with water for better convenience.

How Often Should You Change Engine Coolant?

Changing your engine’s coolant depends upon running and the consumption of your vehicle. However, like other fluids, coolant or antifreeze needs to be maintained. Generally, It is recommended to replace the engine coolant every 50,000 miles. However, some new vehicle models might require engine coolant or antifreeze servicing after every 10,000 miles.

What Types Of Damages Can A Wrong Type Of Coolant Cause?

There are hundreds of options available for coolant fluids. Using a cheaper engine coolant that is not well-suited can weaken and damage the water pump, radiator, radiator hoses, and cylinder gasket. These are the most common damages, but they can be worst if not addressed properly or timely.

What Are The Signs Of Changing Your Coolant?

If your vehicle is running out of coolant or requires a coolant change, the vehicle will likely experience the following:

Dashboard warning light or abnormal temperature gauge.
Automatic engine cut-off.
Damage to engine parts.
High-temperature gauge creeping towards the red.
The heater is not working or blowing constant hot air.
Poor fuel economy.
A sweet, burning smell.

Is There A Difference Between Diesel Antifreeze And Regular Coolant?

No antifreeze or coolant fluid is specifically designed for gasoline or diesel engines. However, it is important to choose your antifreeze according to the age of your vehicle’s engine. For instance, Orange antifreeze or coolants are preferred in newer engines and green for older ones.

How Can I Check The Level Of My Vehicle’s Coolant?

Yes, you can, and you may probably check for this after some days. However, this is a quick task, so you can check it regularly to prevent any mishaps. You can change it by following the simple steps:

Allow your engine to cool off.
Open the hood and locate the coolant reservoir.
It should be translucent, with visible fill lines on the sides.
If the coolant is above that line, your coolant level is fine.