Driving at an optimum temperature is as important to you as it is to your car’s engine. In this article, we’ll explain the role of coolant, how to change it, and how much it can cost. Keep reading!

 

What is coolant?

Coolant, also known as coolant liquid, keeps a car’s engine at the right temperature.

This liquid has properties that prevent the engine from accumulating rust inside the cooling system, preventing its components from corroding.

Interested in finding out more about car engines? Check out our article Engine oil filters: Everything you need to know.

 

What does coolant do?

The purpose of coolant is to prevent car radiator water from freezing when the temperature dips under 0.

The opposite is also true, as coolant prevents your car engine from overheating when temperatures skyrocket.

 

 

What is coolant used for?

Coolant is used to cool vehicle engines.

The combustion process in a vehicle can reach high temperatures, damaging engine components and other car elements.

When should you check your coolant? You should check your coolant levels when performing preventive maintenance on your vehicle or while changing your engine oil.

Engine coolant loses its properties over time, so it should be replaced periodically.

To check the antifreeze levels in your vehicle, you can use the KROFtools Antifreeze Tester.

 

 

Click on the image to find out more about our Anti freeze Test (ref.8727).

If you want to find out more about changing your engine oil, check out our article How to change your car oil in 6 steps.

 

When should you replace your car coolant?

You should replace the coolant in your car every 2 years or every 30,000 km.

If you notice temperature fluctuations above 90ºC (the ideal temperature at which your engine should operate), you should take your car to a manufacturer-approved workshop or a reliable mechanic, as this temperature fluctuation may indicate a cooling system malfunction.

 

 

What are the benefits of coolant?

The benefits of coolant are that it:

 

1. Regulates engine temperature

The coolant in your vehicle’s cooling circuit ensures your engine always operates at the optimum temperature, which leads to better car performance.

This process prevents corrosion and breakdowns caused by exposure to extreme temperatures.

Coolant is an essential component in car cooling systems, as its chemical compounds (ethanol and ethylene glycol) act on vehicle radiators, preventing rust from forming.

 

2. Improves cooling circuit operationality

Coolant allows for liquid to circulate effectively in your vehicle radiator. This aspect is indispensable to the correct functioning of a vehicle cooling system.

 

3. Helps prevent engine corrosion

Sudden changes in pressure can lead to water causing both corrosion and wear and bubbles forming.

Coolant contains small amounts of anti-corrosion agents that protect car components such as the thermostat, water pump, and radiator.

The liquid therefore prolongs car lifespans and prevents expenses from any necessary repairs.

 

4. Saves on fuel consumption

One of the ways to save fuel and reduce polluting emissions is to get your car engine to reach its optimum operating temperature as quickly as possible.

In addition to reaching this temperature, it must also be kept as constant as possible, with no variations, ensuring minimal oscillations.

Remember that taking good care of your car cooling system is one of the keys to ensuring good vehicle maintenance.

 

How can you change your coolant?

To change your vehicle coolant fluid, follow these steps:

1. Consult your vehicle owner’s manual for the concentration of antifreeze that should be used;
2. Drain the old coolant through the radiator drain valve;
3. Clean the cooling circuit;
4. Fill the tank with coolant.

 

How much does coolant cost?

The price of coolant ranges from 8 to 40 euros. The price will vary, however, depending on the model of the vehicle in question.

Interested in finding out more about the world of all things cars? Then follow us on Facebook and keep up with our daily content.