Car cooling system: why engine coolant is so important

The importance of engine coolants

Recognizing the significance of maintaining our cars' good technical status, which includes inspecting tire tread, utilizing correct engine oil, and scheduling routine maintenance.However, your vehicle's engine requires an additional liquid to function smoothly, which is coolant.

1. What is coolant?

Engine coolant usually consists of 50% water and 50% glycol. Commonly known as antifreeze, it ensures that the coolant does not freeze or boil - an extremely important property for your engine.

2. Why does your engine need it?

Antifreeze ensures that the engine temperature remains stable and performs well in all weather conditions. An additional benefit of engine coolant is that it prevents rust and corrosion of metals (other than iron or steel) in the radiator, engine and heater.

3. What coolant should I use?

Your first step should always be to consult your vehicle owner's manual to see which coolant is best for your car. There are three types of coolers and sometimes they can come in different colors.

4. When do you check the coolant level?

The coolant level should be checked twice a year, preferably before the "Check Coolant" signal lights up on the control panel or before the coolant turns cloudy brown.

Also Read: How to Prepare Your Car for a Long Journey?

5. How to check and fill the coolant in your car?

After each ride, wait 30 minutes for the engine to cool before opening the hood to check or change the coolant. To be safe, remove the coolant reservoir cap halfway with a rag. Then pause for a moment before removing it all the way. (Note: Do not unlock all at once, as coolant may leak to the surface and cause burns.)

How to check your coolant level:

Look for a semi-transparent white container filled with bright green, pink, orange, red or yellow liquid

The coolant level should sit within the designated safe levels marked as "Max" and "Min" on the side. If it is slightly below the mark, add a few milliliters of water. But if you need to add more than a liter of water, you need to add coolant instead.

How to add coolant to your car:

• Place a funnel inside the reservoir and add coolant up to the "max" line.
• Close the coolant reservoir cap and tighten it tightly.
• If this is your first time changing the coolant yourself, make sure someone experienced is around to assist you. Alternatively, ask your mechanic to teach you how to do it to save yourself future trips to the workshop.

Also Read: 13 car maintenance tips that can prevent major repair costs