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What Does Coolant Or Antifreeze Do?
Coolant, also called antifreeze, is the fluid found in your radiator. Your coolant contains a chemical (ethylene glycol) that stops water from freezing or boiling in regular and extreme temperatures. Coolant also contains rust, corrosion and foaming inhibitors. Not only is coolant important in the summer to prevent the water in your radiator from boiling over, coolant also provides lubrication for the moving parts it comes into contact with inside your vehicle. The Cooling System in your vehicle is responsible for maintaining safe operating temperatures and protecting your engine. The specific characteristics of Antifreeze serve a dual purpose by preventing boil-over in the summer and freezing in the winter. Additionally, antifreeze helps prevent corrosion in the cooling system, which can be problematic.
Coolant: Checking coolant strength is important for maintaining engine operation and condition. Flushing/replacing coolant clears out any dirt/rust particles in the cooling system and replenishes the cooling systems rust inhibitors.
How Can I Check My Coolant Level?
To check your coolant level, find the coolant reservoir under the hood of your vehicle. The reservoir or the cap may be labelled as "Engine Coolant" or have a warning label such as “Never Open Hot”. In most cases, you should be able to see if the liquid reaches the full line on the side of the reservoir without opening the cap.
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When Should I Top Up Or Change My Coolant?
If the coolant level is lower than the full line, it might just need a top up. However if the existing fluid looks colourless or rusty or has debris floating in it, it is time to flush the old coolant out and add new. Although it is possible to simply drain the old coolant and replace it, this only refreshes the fluid in the radiator, not in the other parts of the vehicle that the coolant comes into contact with (like the engine block and hoses). In contrast, a complete coolant flush (also known as a radiator flush) will clean the entire coolant system and help protect the system for the long haul.