Can I Use Water as Car Engine Coolant?
In short, the answer is no. Water should not be used as a car engine coolant because it can cause serious damage to your engine. Coolant is a specially formulated liquid that helps to keep your engine running at the correct temperature. It also helps to prevent corrosion and lubricate the water pump.
Why can’t I use water as coolant?
There are several reasons why you should not use water as coolant:
- Water boils at a lower temperature than coolant. This means that if your engine overheats, the water will boil and turn into steam. Steam can cause serious damage to your engine, including warping the cylinder head and blowing the head gasket.
- Water freezes at a higher temperature than coolant. This means that if you live in a cold climate, the water in your engine could freeze and expand, causing the engine block to crack.
- Water does not contain anti-corrosion additives. This means that it can cause corrosion to the metal parts in your engine, including the water pump, radiator, and hoses.
- Water does not lubricate the water pump. This can cause the water pump to wear out prematurely.
What should I use as coolant?
You should use a coolant that is specifically designed for your car. Coolant is typically a mixture of water and ethylene glycol. Ethylene glycol is a toxic substance, so it is important to use a coolant that contains the correct amount of ethylene glycol. You can find the correct coolant for your car by consulting your owner’s manual.
How often should I change my coolant?
You should change your coolant according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Most manufacturers recommend changing the coolant every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. You may need to change the coolant more often if you live in a hot climate or if you drive your car hard.
Conclusion
Using water as car engine coolant is a bad idea. Water can cause serious damage to your engine, including warping the cylinder head, blowing the head gasket, and corroding the metal parts. You should use a coolant that is specifically designed for your car. You can find the correct coolant for your car by consulting your owner’s manual.
