Motorists often independently carry out some manipulations with their car. One of these actions is topping up and replacing antifreeze. However, one day it may run out, and the liquid of the desired color will not be on the counter.
Antifreeze: what is it and are they all the same?
Antifreeze is a process fluid that is mandatory for any vehicle. Its main task is to protect the engine from overheating. Thanks to this, its power is maintained, fuel consumption is normalized and various malfunctions are excluded.
Coolant must be used in every vehicle. Even in driving schools, they clearly teach how to check this element. For example, they warn you not to unscrew the cap of the antifreeze tank, if the engine is started, you can get burned. It is necessary to open the container inside the car in stages: first release the pressure, and only then remove the cover completely. The amount of antifreeze should be at a medium level. High or low liquid level will create problems during operation.
The critical level of liquid in the tank will be signaled by a special light on the instrument panel. If there is none, the amount of antifreeze will have to be checked visually. On average, this should be done once a month.
Antifreezes from different manufacturers differ from each other. Using the wrong fluid can accelerate the formation of corrosion on the water pump. For example, for new cars of Audi, Volkswagen, General Motors, it is recommended to use red / orange antifreezes saturated with organic acids. Silicates in them decompose more slowly and provide better protection against corrosion.
Why are colored antifreezes?
Automotive professionals assure that the color of antifreeze is a common marketing ploy that allows a manufacturing company to highlight its products on the market. That is why today on the shelves there are coolants of almost all possible colors. Coloring is achieved with a conventional dye.
The color of the antifreeze does not affect its quality. However, without special need, you should not mix liquids of different shades: they may have a different composition of additives.
When choosing antifreeze, pay less attention to its color. The main indicator for you is the absence / presence of silicates in the production. Typically, this information is indicated on the packaging. Remember: if you mix two different antifreezes, their service life will be significantly reduced. After such a procedure, the best option would be to completely replace the coolant.
If you are a young driver and focus solely on the name and color of antifreeze, pay attention to the advice of professionals in case of an emergency, mix the two products. For example, liquids of red shades (reds, oranges, pinks) interact well with each other. Only when absolutely necessary can you add green or yellow antifreeze to them.
