Coolants help engines stay cool during hot summer months. Some coolants help to keep engines from freezing when temperatures plummet in the winter. You should check your coolant often and refill as needed. Some types of coolants can last for several years before they need servicing. Others will need to be flushed and changed more frequently. The best place to find information about your vehicle's particular coolant needs is through the manual or the car manufacturer.
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Significance
Coolants keep an engine running at peak performance in all temperatures. They add antifreeze and corrosion inhibitors, which consist of water and organic chemicals such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol and diethylene glycol. Coolants can withstand freezing and boiling temperatures.
Function
Coolant is utilized in internal combustion engines. It is a liquid that attracts heat away from a vehicle's engine and then disperses it through the radiator. Coolant is frequently called antifreeze because it also prevents freezing. It is used year round in most vehicle engines. There is usually a reservoir in the engine compartment for the coolant to be added. This is connected to the radiator with hoses.
Types
Coolant is available in three general types. The first is known as North American green antifreeze. This is the original widespread formula used up until the introduction of extended-life coolants. OAT-based extended-life coolants are another type. OAT is an acronym for organic acid technology, which uses organic acids and is generally a different color than green. The last type is known as hybrid OAT, or G-05. It consists of organic acids, except different ones than used in other coolants. The type needed for a vehicle will vary depending its year, make and model.
Considerations
There are also universal coolants produced by some companies that are supposed to work in any foreign or domestic, old or new vehicle. This makes it easier to purchase coolants without worrying about the specifics of it. Universal coolants can be added to cooling systems using hybrid, green or extended-life OAT coolants. They do not extend the service period of the previous engine coolant. Not all of the suppliers of coolants produce this type.
Warning
Certain coolants, even in small amounts, are deadly to animals. They can be very attractive with their sweet flavor and scent. There are coolants available that are less toxic; they are made from propylene glycol, in place of ethylene glycol. Names of these types are Texaco PG, Prestone Low Tox and Sierra.
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