what is coolant for a car

1 year ago 104
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Car coolant, also known as antifreeze coolant, is a liquid that helps regulate the temperature of a cars engine, preventing it from overheating. Coolant is typically made up of a 50-50 mixture of water and antifreeze, with antifreeze being mainly composed of ethylene glycol or propylene glycol. Coolant transfers heat and adds antifreeze protection to an engine, so the car can stay running in optimal condition. It also lubricates the moving parts it comes into contact with, which protects damage to the water pump, head gasket, the cylinder, and piston timing. Coolant is located in a reservoir affixed to the radiator before it’s introduced to the engine block and its components. The liquid cooling system is made up of several components, and when the engine is running, the coolant continuously circulates through the engine and back through the radiator. Coolant exits from the bottom of the radiator after it’s cooled. It’s then drawn into the water pump, which pumps it into the engine’s block and head, where it absorbs the excess heat to control the engine temperature.

Antifreeze, on the other hand, is pure glycol and doesnt freeze or boil as easily as water, so its often used in high-performance engines that run at higher temperatures. Coolant, on the other hand, lowers the freezing point and raises the waters boiling point, making it ideal for use in car engines. Coolant also contains rust and corrosion inhibitors to help protect the engine from rust and corrosion.

To keep a car running smoothly, its important to use the right type of coolant for the vehicle. The type of coolant required can vary by year, make, model, engine, and even the country where the car was made. Its best to check the owners manual to determine the recommended coolant for the car. Checking the coolant on a regular basis will also help determine whether it needs to be added or replaced.