The Difference between Antifreeze and Coolant

Well, antifreeze and engine coolant are similar, but not the same. Antifreeze is a concentrated, glycol-based liquid that must be diluted with water before use – at which point it is referred to as coolant. ... Engine coolant is a mixture of antifreeze and water, with a common ratio of 50:50.

1. Can I put antifreeze in my engine coolant?
2. How do you know if your car needs antifreeze?
3. Does it matter what antifreeze I put in my car?
4. Is it OK to top up coolant with tap water?
5. Why is my coolant low but no leaks?

Can I put antifreeze in my engine coolant?

Does antifreeze go in the engine coolant? Once mixed with water, you simply pour antifreeze into the same place as the engine coolant: the expansion tank, or reservoir. It will then filter 'round the engine and mix with your coolant to make sure the liquid does not freeze.

How do you know if your car needs antifreeze?

5 Signs That Your Vehicle Needs An Antifreeze/Coolant Service

1. The temperature gauge reads hotter than normal when the engine is running.
2. Antifreeze leaks and puddles beneath your vehicle (orange or green fluid)
3. A grinding noise is coming from under the hood of your car.
4. Flecks or bits of rust start to show up in the antifreeze/coolant liquid.

Does it matter what antifreeze I put in my car?

Well, you use the coolant that is specified in your owner's manual. If you just need to top it up, the recommendation is still the same, however it is unlikely to cause any serious problems if you add a litre of a different type of coolant, as long as you follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule.

Is it OK to top up coolant with tap water?

If your coolant level is too low (below or near the lower mark), top it up using a 50/50 mixture of water and antifreeze (for normal driving conditions), or pour pre-mixed antifreeze straight into the reservoir. You can use clean tap water in an emergency, but antifreeze should be added as soon as possible.

Why is my coolant low but no leaks?

When you are losing coolant but no leak is visible, several parts could be the guilty party. It could be a blown head gasket, a fractured cylinder head, damaged cylinder bores, or a manifold leak. ... However, you may breathe easy if the mechanic does not find any trace of exhaust gases in the coolant.