Car Engine Coolant Liquid
What is Engine Coolant Liquid?
Engine coolant liquid is a vital fluid that helps keep your car’s engine running smoothly. It circulates through the engine, absorbing heat from the engine’s components and dissipating it into the atmosphere. Without coolant, your engine would quickly overheat and seize up.
Types of Engine Coolant Liquid
There are two main types of engine coolant liquid: inorganic additive technology (IAT) and organic acid technology (OAT).
- IAT coolant is made with inorganic salts, such as silicates and phosphates. These salts help to protect metal components from corrosion, but they can also build up over time and cause problems. IAT coolant typically has a service life of 2 years or 30,000 miles.
- OAT coolant is made with organic acids, such as carboxylates. These acids do not form deposits on metal components, and they have a longer service life than IAT coolant. OAT coolant typically has a service life of 5 years or 100,000 miles.
How to Check Your Engine Coolant Level
It is important to check your engine coolant level regularly, especially before long trips. To check the coolant level:
- Park your car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
- Allow the engine to cool for a few minutes.
- Locate the coolant reservoir. It is usually a clear plastic container with a black cap.
- Remove the cap and check the coolant level. The coolant level should be between the “min” and “max” marks on the reservoir.
- Add coolant to the reservoir if necessary. Only add coolant of the same type that is already in the reservoir.
How to Flush Your Engine Coolant
It is important to flush your engine coolant every few years to remove any built-up sediment or debris. To flush your engine coolant:
- Drain the old coolant from the radiator.
- Fill the radiator with clean water and run the engine for a few minutes.
- Drain the water and repeat steps 2 and 3 until the water runs clear.
- Add new coolant to the radiator.
Conclusion
Engine coolant liquid is a vital fluid that helps keep your car’s engine running smoothly. It is important to check your coolant level regularly and flush your coolant every few years to keep your engine in good condition.