Unlock Your Journey: The Importance of Antifreeze for Vehicles

As you accelerate down the empty roads toward your destination, excitement builds and adrenaline rushes through your body. You roll down the windows to enjoy the breeze on your face and hair, when suddenly, your summer getaway takes a hit as your radiator starts to emit smoke. In all the excitement, you forgot that those long-awaited summer celebrations could come to an abrupt halt.

If you don’t want to ruin your ride, give your car the care it deserves with antifreeze.

Why Choose Antifreeze?

It’s safe to say that we’ve all neglected our cars at some point. Checking tire pressure and engine oil levels can be boring and time-consuming for those with a busy schedule. But just like in any other relationship, if you don’t put in the effort and attention, your “partner” (whether it’s your life companion or your car) will eventually abandon you.

The health of the radiator is one of the most crucial components of your vehicle, as it is solely responsible for keeping the engine at the proper temperature. The maximum duration you can drive with a dry radiator is about a minute without any risk. After five minutes, the engine’s health depends on the brand and condition of the car.

The engine may shut down completely as the car’s safety system kicks in to prevent further damage to the components. In the worst-case scenario, the engine could seize up and require costly repairs, forcing you to spend money and lose valuable time. Not worth it, right?

Well, don’t worry. Unlock your journey with antifreeze.

Application & Benefits

Some people choose to add water to the radiator as a quick fix. This works—if you’re looking for engine corrosion and a decrease in performance control. Water may be a cheaper alternative, but in the long run, you’ll only be adding more zeros to your repair bill.

Antifreeze or coolant is an ethylene glycol-based liquid that lowers the freezing point and is used in vehicle radiators. It keeps the engine cool and prevents rust buildup that damages the car’s structure.

Once the antifreeze is added to the radiator, it circulates through the engine and then passes back through the radiator. Air flows through the radiator fins and helps cool the coolant itself.

Antifreeze can significantly reduce your car’s maintenance costs and ensure stress-free driving. It increases the longevity of your vehicle and helps you get a good resale price if you decide to sell it in the future.

In summer, especially, your car’s engine is pushed to its limits. Antifreeze allows you to drive long distances without even a hint of smoke. Sounds like a good deal, right?

Preventive Measures

There are a few key things to keep in mind when incorporating antifreeze into your vehicle. First, it’s essential to add water to the formula before pouring it into the radiator. Water keeps silicates, phosphates, and nitrates suspended. The ideal ratio is about 50:50, using distilled water.

Now, how do you safely add it to your vehicle?

Turn off the engine – Let the car cool down first. You don’t want coolant to splash or melt onto your skin. Burns can be severe.
Locate the reservoir – The location depends on where your car’s engine is placed. It varies by brand and model.
Check coolant levels – Before pouring in the coolant, check the fluid levels to avoid spills.
Access the reservoir – Unscrew the reservoir cap using a glove or a rag to prevent burns on your skin.
Application – Now, carefully add the coolant while keeping an eye on the levels.
Seal and finish – Once the fluid reaches the cold fill line, it’s time to put the cap back on. Make sure it’s tightly sealed. Now, hit the road!

How Often Do You Need Antifreeze?

Since many consumers have already recognized its benefits, let’s talk about how often you should apply antifreeze. Most fluids should be drained periodically to remove corrosive residues. Antifreeze works the same way. You should check coolant levels twice a year—before summer and winter. However, how often you need to replace antifreeze depends on the number of miles you put on your car. The more you drive, the more likely your car will need attention.