What is Antifreeze and How Does it Work?

 

Mazda of New Rochelle New Rochelle NY

Most drivers in Bronx know about antifreeze, but not everyone knows what exactly it is used for. If you’re in the dark about what antifreeze does for your car and why it’s so necessary, you’re about to read a guide that will inform you! Prefer for experts to take care of your vehicle’s antifreeze flushes and cooling system maintenance? Schedule service with us now! Otherwise, read on to learn more about how to avoid using antifreeze incorrectly. With our guide, we’ll help you with questions like:

  • What is antifreeze?
  • What is antifreeze used for?
  • Is antifreeze coolant?

What is Antifreeze?

Often, our service team will help out with questions that Manhattan drivers like you ask such as “Is antifreeze coolant?” While a lot of people use the terms interchangeably, coolant is actually a mixture of antifreeze and water. Most of the time, coolant is sold as a 50/50 blend of antifreeze and water, while you can also buy coolant that has up to 70% antifreeze. A lot of people think that antifreeze and coolant achieve opposite results, but both of these mixtures actually regulate your engine’s temperature as you drive, it’s just that antifreeze is the concentrated form of coolant.

Usually, you’ll find that antifreeze is made out of ethylene glycol or propylene glycol. It’s green, orange, or pink in color depending on what’s inside it. Most vehicles take green antifreeze, but you’ll want to look at your owner’s manual to figure out what color of antifreeze is best.

What is Antifreeze Used for in a Vehicle?

Antifreeze goes in your car’s radiator and is connected by a reservoir in the engine bay. It goes throughout your engine by way of the water pump, which directs combustion-generated heat away from your engine. The coolant is now hot and it goes back to the radiator, where it’s cooled by air to remove the excess heat. This cycle repeats as you drive and it means your White Plains car runs with a safe temperature.

Mazda of New Rochelle: Your Auto Repair Experts

If you see steam coming out of your engine or you’re overheated in general, this could be a sign that something is wrong with your coolant or antifreeze. Mazda of New Rochelle wants to be the people who help you through whatever quandary faces your car. Getting ready? Contact us today to learn more.