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Your Car's Antifreeze and Coolant: What's the Difference?

Your Car's Antifreeze and Coolant: What's the Difference?

Understanding the Difference Between Antifreeze and Coolant

We may be enjoying the pumpkin spice advantages of Fall here in Wichita, but as our area’s temperatures near the 80s, we are reminded of summer. So, as we pivot between the heat of summer the approaching freezing temperatures of winter, it’s a good time to review the differences between coolant and antifreeze. Because, when it comes to maintaining your vehicle’s engine, understanding the difference between antifreeze and coolant is crucial.

While these terms are often used interchangeably, they are not the same thing. And knowing what each does and why they are important can help you keep your vehicle running smoothly, especially during extreme weather conditions. So, in this blog, the expert at Tracy’s Tire Pros on West 21st Street in Wichita dive into what sets antifreeze and coolant apart, and why both play an essential role in your vehicle’s performance.

What is Antifreeze?

Antifreeze is a concentrated, chemical-based fluid typically made of ethylene glycol or propylene glycol. And its primary purpose is to lower the freezing point of the fluid in your engine. Because this prevents it from freezing in cold temperatures. In addition, this fluid also raises the boiling point of the engine’s fluid, helping to prevent overheating in extreme heat conditions.

Key Functions of Antifreeze:

    • Prevents Freezing: Antifreeze keeps the engine fluid from freezing in cold weather, which is essential for preventing engine damage.
    • Increases Boiling Point: It helps maintain fluid stability under high temperatures, preventing the engine from overheating.
    • Corrosion Inhibitors: Modern antifreeze formulas include additives that protect your engine’s metal components from rust and corrosion. And this prolongs the life of your engine and cooling system.

What is Coolant?

Coolant is a mixture of antifreeze and water (usually in a 50/50 ratio). And this specific design regulates the temperature of your engine. Because coolant circulates through the engine, absorbing heat and then transferring it to the radiator, where it is cooled and recirculated back into the engine.

Key Functions of Coolant:

    • Temperature Regulation: Coolant manages the temperature of the engine, ensuring it stays within optimal operating ranges.
    • Heat Absorption: It absorbs excess heat from the engine and disperses it through the radiator, helping to prevent overheating.
    • Protection Against Freezing and Corrosion: Since it contains antifreeze, coolant also protects against freezing temperatures and corrosion. And this maintains engine performance year-round.

Common Misconceptions

  • Antifreeze and Coolant are the Same: While antifreeze is a component of coolant, they are not the same. Antifreeze is a concentrate that needs to be mixed with water to create coolant. And this is the actual fluid that runs through your engine.
  • Coolant Doesn’t Need to Be Changed Regularly: Coolant breaks down over time and loses its ability to protect your engine effectively. So, regularly flushing and replacing your coolant is essential to maintain its protective properties.

Tracy’s Tire Pros Can Help You Understand the Difference Between Antifreeze and Coolant

Understanding the difference between antifreeze and coolant—and why each is crucial—helps you maintain your vehicle’s cooling system and overall performance. So, regularly check your coolant levels, inspect for leaks, and adhere to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule for coolant changes. Because, doing so will ensure your engine stays protected against extreme temperatures, corrosion, and potential damage. And this will keep you on the road safely and efficiently.

Tracy’s Tire Pros can help you take the best care for your vehicle. And they have three locations for your convenience:  West Maple Street auto care and auto repair, East First Street N. and West 21st Street N. Furthermore, Tracy’s Automotive is a proud dealer for Jasper Engines and Vogue Performance Exhaust systems.

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