Antifreeze, also known as engine coolant, is a chemical solution that circulates through your car's engine to regulate its temperature. The primary function of antifreeze is to prevent the engine from overheating by absorbing and dissipating the heat generated during combustion. Additionally, it helps prevent the engine from freezing in cold weather by lowering the freezing point of water.
How Does Antifreeze Work?
Antifreeze is typically a blend of water and ethylene glycol or propylene glycol, along with other additives such as corrosion inhibitors, lubricants, and pH stabilizers. It is intended to raise the boiling point and lower the freezing point of water, allowing your engine to operate effectively in both hot and cold climates.
When the engine is on, the antifreeze is moved through the engine and absorbs heat generated by the combustion process. The heated antifreeze then passes through the radiator, where it's cooled by air passing over the radiator's fins. As the antifreeze cools, it releases heat, and the process starts all over again.
Why is Antifreeze Important?
Antifreeze is a critical component of your car's cooling system, and without it, your engine would quickly overheat and become damaged. In addition to controlling the temperature of your motor, antifreeze also helps protect your engine from corrosion and rust caused by exposure to air and moisture. In other words, antifreeze can extend the life of your engine and prevent costly repairs.
When to Replace Antifreeze?
As important as antifreeze is, it does need to be replaced periodically. Over time, the additives in antifreeze can break down, reducing its quality and effectiveness. If you leave bad antifreeze in your vehicle for too long, it can lead to corrosion, rust, and clogs in the cooling system. To prevent these problems, you need to have your antifreeze checked and flushed according to your manufacturer's maintenance schedule.
By understanding what antifreeze is, how it works, and why it's important, you can take care of your investment and ensures it runs safely on the road. If your vehicle requires coolant or antifreeze service, please call or schedule your appointment online with the team at Robbie's At Your Service today.