What is antifreeze? Where to pour antifreeze? Instruction. How to replace antifreeze: detailed instructions Adding antifreeze to cold or hot

The operation of the cooling system depends on the level of antifreeze and on. After reading the article, you will find out what processes are affected by the level of antifreeze, what happens as a result of exceeding or decreasing its level, and also learn how to determine the optimal level of coolant in your car.

What affects the coolant level

Engine cooling ensures the movement of fluid through a sealed system of channels and tubes. Until the engine has warmed up to operating temperature, the pump impeller drives the coolant first in a small circle (cylinder block, cylinder head (cylinder head), stove). After the coolant heats up to 80-90 degrees, the thermostat opens and the antifreeze begins to circulate in a large circle (small circle, radiator).

As it warms up, the volume of coolant increases by 3-5 percent and its excess goes into the expansion tank. When the engine cools down, the fluid from the expansion tank returns to the inside of the engine. Thanks to this, it is possible to avoid airing and the formation of vapor locks. If the level of antifreeze is less than necessary, then it is not enough to fill the engine during cooling. Therefore, during the start of the engine, air or vapor plugs will form in the cylinder head, which violate the temperature regime of the cylinder head. As a result, the head overheats, which leads to its cracking, destruction of oil and cooling channels, and engine power, increased fuel consumption and other unpleasant consequences.

If the level is higher than necessary, then the pressure in the system will be higher than normal, this will increase the risk of leaks from under the hoses and or the radiator.

What affects the degree of filling of the tank with antifreeze

The level of antifreeze is affected by:

• the integrity of the cylinder block, cylinder head, cylinder head gasket, radiator, hoses, pipes, stove and expansion tank;
• correct fixation of hoses with clamps;
• normal operation of the expansion tank and radiator cap valves;
• the state of the outlet from the neck and the hose connecting it to the expansion tank;
• operation of the fuel system;
• setting and operation of the ignition system;
• type of antifreeze;
• driving style.

If there are cracks in the cylinder block or cylinder head or, then the coolant will constantly go either into the oil or into the cylinders. In the first case, the oil will begin to turn into a bubbly suspension, in the second, the exhaust from the engine will look like white vapor even in warm weather. If the cylinder head gasket is broken, then both of the symptoms described above are possible.

In addition, there will be a noticeable decrease in engine power and throttle response, as well as an increase in fuel consumption. If the hoses are loosely fastened with clamps, then during the engine warm-up, when the pressure in the cooling system increases, antifreeze will begin to flow through them.

If the radiator and expansion tank valves are faulty, the pressure in the system will not be able to rise to the required level. As a result, the risk of vapor locks will be reduced and will lead to serious damage to the cylinder head. If the outlet of the neck or the hose to the expansion tank is clogged, the coolant will not be able to return to the radiator, and from it to the engine. As a result, the level will drop and there is a risk of vapor lock.

The heating of the cylinders depends not only on the operation of the cooling system, but also on the serviceability and adjustment of the fuel equipment and the ignition system. If the fuel system supplies a lean air-fuel mixture, it will detonate, burning much faster and producing more heat.

This will lead to an increase in the temperature of the coolant, the formation of vapor locks and boiling. As a result, the level of antifreeze drops, the engine overheats and the need for expensive repairs. If the mixture is too rich, then to ensure normal engine power, you will have to press the gas pedal harder. As a result, the cylinders will be filled with an increased amount of fuel, which will lead to an increase in temperature, a drop in antifreeze levels and boiling.

Glycerin-based antifreezes boil at temperatures of 90-100 degrees, so even a slight overheating of the motor will lead to the formation of steam. If the driver prefers to drive in high gears and low engine speeds (below 2 thousand per minute), then any slide will increase the load on the engine and increase its temperature. Indeed, at such engine speeds, the pump will not be able to provide the necessary flow of antifreeze. As a result, the cylinder head will begin to overheat, the liquid will begin to emit steam and its level will gradually decrease.

How to check the level of antifreeze in the expansion tank

The check is carried out in three stages:

1. On a cold engine, unscrew the radiator cap. The liquid should be at the level of the lower edge of the outlet, from which the hose goes to the expansion tank.
2. Examine the expansion tank. The fluid should be between the Min and Max marks.
3. If the level in the radiator or tank is less than necessary, then add coolant, start the engine, warm it up to operating temperature (90-95 degrees), then cool it to room temperature. If the liquid level in the radiator or expansion tank has dropped, then the problem is a violation of the tightness of the cooling system and the motor needs serious diagnostics. If the level has not dropped, then everything is fine.

It is advisable to carry out such a check at least once a week. This will allow you to notice a drop in the level of antifreeze in time, determine the cause and save the engine from serious damage.

The engine coolant level is gradually decreasing. Therefore, for many car owners, the question becomes relevant, is it possible to add coolant and how to do it correctly?

The engine coolant level is gradually decreasing. Therefore, for many car owners, the question becomes relevant, is it possible to add coolant and how to do it correctly? It should immediately be noted that it is possible to add coolant, but there are certain nuances. They relate directly to antifreeze, as well as the sequence of actions. The article will address issues related to the choice of antifreeze and the process of topping up. As an example, one of the most popular Hyundai Solaris cars will be considered.

Before considering the procedure for replacing antifreeze, it is advisable to dwell on the functions of this fluid. The term antifreeze is commonly understood as a whole range of liquids that are designed to cool internal combustion power units. Also considered coolers are used in aircraft systems for glass cleaning.

A feature of antifreeze is resistance to low temperatures. The function of antifreeze is to prevent damage to parts caused by water freezing when the temperature drops.

Antifreezes demonstrate not only resistance to low temperatures, but also a minimum coefficient of expansion. For example, during the freezing process, water expands up to 9%, while antifreeze - up to 1.5%.

At the same time, topping up the coolant allows you to reduce the load on individual elements of the power unit. It reduces the likelihood of corrosion processes. This is due to the presence of special additives in antifreeze.

Since the coolant constantly circulates in the system, it loses its performance over time. Water evaporates, and the cooler itself acquires a dark shade. This is due to the fact that additives lose their properties over time.

Every car owner needs to know that it is necessary to use only the fluid that the automaker offers. Therefore, if the car owner is interested in what to add to the cooling system, it is necessary to look into the reference literature, in particular, the car's operating manual. In the manual you can find information about the use of certain brands of coolers. If we are talking about topping up, then only the antifreeze that was used before can be used. Ignoring this recommendation can lead to breakdowns in the vehicle's cooling system.

Important: antifreezes are classified according to certain brands. Appropriate marking is applied on the packaging. The color of the coolant, contrary to popular belief, is not the main selection criterion.

For Hyundai Solaris, the following types of coolant can be used:

1. G-11;
2. G-12;
3. G-13.

The first composition from the listed list refers to hybrid substances. The second group (G-12) is represented by carboxylic liquids, and the third - by the most modern compositions.

Important: in cases where it is necessary to add more than 1/3 of the total coolant volume, experts recommend completely replacing the antifreeze.

Thus, in Hyundai Solaris, as well as other car models, only certain types of coolant can be mixed. Antifreeze G-11 must be mixed with G-11 and so on. At the same time, some types of coolers can be mixed. For example, G12 + can be poured into the cooling system if it uses G11 antifreeze. In other cases, mixing of cooling compounds is prohibited. The same goes for mixing antifreeze and antifreeze. These two substances differ significantly in technical characteristics.

If the car owner buys antifreeze at a retail outlet, then you need to know that the compositions can be sold in the form of a concentrate and liquids ready for pouring. The composition of the concentrate must not be poured into the coolant system. Such a substance must be diluted in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Usually such information is applied directly on the package. In the absence of information, it is recommended to check with the seller for details.

The opinions of car owners about pouring water into the car's cooling system and, in particular, antifreeze, differ. Most motorists claim that water can be mixed with antifreeze. However, there are some nuances:

1. water must be distilled;
2. you can add a small amount of water.

If the owner does not have the opportunity to fill in distilled water, then at least it should be well cleaned using a filtration system. Otherwise, the cooling system may be clogged. It is also possible that the elements contained in the raw water will react with the coolant additives.

The cooling system can be filled with no more than 200 ml of water. It is quite obvious that the use of large volumes will lead to dilution of the coolant and loss of its performance. In the summer, this does not play a big role, but in winter it can cause the liquid to freeze. Adding water to antifreeze is allowed only in extreme cases, for example, on the road.

It is possible that the amount of coolant has dropped to a critical level. In such a situation, water can be used, of course, if antifreeze is not available.

If you pour a coolant of a different class into a tank with antifreeze, this will lead to a change in the ratio of additives. For this reason, it is not recommended to experiment by mixing different classes of coolers. In turn, a small amount of water does not impair the performance of the coolant. In essence, water simply dilutes the antifreeze, reducing the volume of additives. At the same time, their percentage does not change.

In some cases, adding water to the antifreeze can lower the freezing point of the coolant. At first glance, this statement may seem illogical, because it contradicts the laws of physics. But there is one nuance. Typically, a decrease in the level of coolant in the system occurs as a result of the evaporation of water. Therefore, if a small amount of distilled or filtered water is added to the system, the technical parameters of the coolant will improve.

In the winter season, diluting antifreeze is undesirable. It is also worth noting that any cooler is approximately 3/4 of ordinary water.

• the expansion tank valve is activated;
• the coolant level has dropped;
• coolant is unsuitable for further operation.

If the valve is periodically activated on the expansion tank, this indicates that the antifreeze is not performing its functions. That is, the liquid is not able to absorb the required amount of heat.

Often, motorists notice that the coolant level in the system has significantly decreased. Sometimes this is due to water evaporation. In other cases, there is a banal leak. Most often, a leak occurs as a result of depressurization of pipes, a radiator, and a number of connections. Much less often, a leak occurs as a result of damage to the expansion tank.

On the expansion tank of any vehicle there are two marks indicating the minimum and maximum allowable levels of antifreeze.

The first letters of the words LOW and FULL are indicated on the Hyundai Solaris expansion tank. In the first case, the label L indicates the minimum allowable level. Accordingly, the F mark indicates that the maximum allowable amount of antifreeze is poured into the tank. Other vehicles may use completely different labels, such as minimum and maximum.

If the car owner has recently poured coolant into the system, and the level has dropped significantly, then this indicates leaks. In this case, you need to look for a leak.

As noted, over time, the coolant loses its performance characteristics. The term of use of the cooler can vary from 2 to 5 years. Each manufacturer sets the service life of antifreeze. For example, grade G-11 fluids are rated for 36 months of use. Some brands of coolant, such as G12+, can be used for more than 60 months, that is, 5 years.

If the antifreeze does not fulfill its functions, then the replacement procedure must be performed more often, not focusing on the service life. Sometimes the liquid not only darkens, but also acquires a thick consistency. In such a situation, you should not wait: the replacement must be carried out immediately.

It should be noted that many car owners are trying to save money and buy counterfeit products. On some vehicles, a drop in antifreeze level is indicated by a corresponding icon located directly on the dashboard. Before adding or changing antifreeze in the expansion tank, the vehicle must be installed on a horizontal surface. Only in this way can a thorough check be carried out.

If there is not enough antifreeze in the expansion tank, then it is not able to absorb the required amount of heat. In addition, in this case, the coolant loses its technical characteristics much faster. As a result, the power unit overheats, the consumption of lubricants increases and other problems arise. Next, we will directly consider the process of adding coolant to the expansion tank.

As an example, let's focus on the Hyundai Solaris car. In any case, the procedure will be relevant for any makes and models of cars. The differences will affect only individual elements, for example, an expansion tank. Some Motorists are interested in: when to add antifreeze: cold or hot? It is important to emphasize that topping up should be done only on a cold engine. The system must be completely cool. This is due to elementary safety rules. Otherwise, serious burns may result.

Directly at the Hyundai Solaris car, the expansion tank is located to the right of the power unit. The scheme for topping up the coolant is as follows:

1. the vehicle is recommended to be installed on a slight slope. In this case, the upper part of the car should be slightly higher. This approach will speed up the unhindered exit of air. If a small amount of antifreeze needs to be poured into the system, then the car can be installed in any position;
2. Next, open the lid of the plastic tank. The procedure must be carried out carefully, as there may be slight pressure in the system. It is advisable to use a clean rag;
3. add antifreeze to the reservoir. The liquid must be added in a thin stream. This is necessary so that air gradually leaves the system. That is, it is necessary to fill in antifreeze so that air bubbles do not form on the surface. Ignoring this recommendation can lead to the formation of a plug and the emergence of additional problems associated with the elimination of air;
4. add coolant to approximately 75% of the tank volume. Motorists with experience recommend focusing on the maximum mark. That is, fill in the liquid closer to the maximum mark;
5. then you need to start the power unit and let it idle for 5 minutes. As a result, the antifreeze will be distributed throughout the system and its level will slightly decrease;
6. in cases where there is a significant decrease in the level of antifreeze, the procedure must be repeated. In this case, you need to add a small amount of liquid in a thin stream;
7. then you should remove the remaining liquid from the surface of the tank with a clean rag and close the plug.

Even if it was necessary to pour out all the liquid from the canister, it is recommended not to throw away the container. The canister contains information about the cooler brand. Therefore, when you need to buy a new antifreeze, the car owner will be able to pick up the appropriate brand of liquid.

If the coolant composition becomes cloudy or has acquired a thick consistency, it is recommended to replace it immediately. You should not focus on the period of use of antifreeze. It is possible that the purchase turned out to be a fake.

It is also recommended to perform a complete replacement of the composition if you need to add more than 1/3 of the total volume. To do this, you will need to drain all the liquid, and then completely flush the system using filtered or distilled water. If possible, it is recommended to use special tools that can be purchased at retail outlets.

Any motorist can easily add antifreeze to the expansion tank. This is a very simple procedure that does not require professional skills. The main thing is to follow the safety rules. It is necessary to add antifreeze only on a cold engine. In addition, it is extremely important to choose the right brand of coolant that meets the requirements of the vehicle. In the process of performing work, the liquid must be topped up with a small jet to avoid the occurrence of an air lock. In the process of using the vehicle, you need to regularly pay attention to the expansion tank. As soon as necessary, you need to add antifreeze or replace it.

Car maintenance often requires personal effort from the owner. Sometimes there is simply no service nearby that could serve and fill the necessary fluids into the car, and sometimes there is no desire to pay a lot of money for service. Therefore, many motorists are interested in the features of self-service. One of the regular processes that you will need to perform during the operation of the machine is the replacement or addition of antifreeze in the cooling system. This is a liquid that circulates through pipes and radiators in the peripheral system of the engine and allows us not to think about the complexities of the temperature operation of the machine.

Naturally, over time, any liquid becomes unusable, its use becomes less effective. There are different beliefs about when to change antifreeze. But the replacement process is unambiguous, and it should be followed without exception. Since it is high-quality work with antifreeze that will preserve the reliability and durability of the engine. The cooling system is one of the most important peripheral elements of the power unit. Without its normal functioning, the engine will not be able to please you with reliable operation. Consider the features of replacing antifreeze.

When to change antifreeze - the main factors for replacing fluid

There are several situations that can force a driver to change the antifreeze in their car. Some of them are connected with external circumstances, and the other part - with the operational properties of the machine. To understand how important it is to change the antifreeze in the car on time, you need to consider how bad coolant affects the operation of vehicles. The fact is that bad antifreeze with additives and dilutions can boil, lose its properties of a temperature buffer. The engine overheats and runs at elevated temperatures. The main reasons for replacing antifreeze are as follows:

• the color of the liquid in the expansion tank has darkened or has begun to change in some other direction;
• the liquid level began to float noticeably, which indicates a loss of antifreeze temperature resistance;
• you have purchased a used car - in this case it is better to immediately replace all technical fluids, belts and rollers;
• the last 45 thousand kilometers you have not replaced the antifreeze in your car;
• the engine began to constantly warm up or work in cold mode without reaching the desired temperature;
• you perform regular technical work to fix certain problems or clarify the problem.

In any of these cases, it would be better to replace the antifreeze and get a guarantee of the quality of the engine cooling unit. The replacement interval of 45 thousand kilometers is clearly indicated approximately, because each manufacturer produces a liquid for the cooling system with its own technologies. Therefore, it is necessary not only to take into account this general recommendation, but also to read the instructions of the manufacturers, as well as visually observe the condition of the liquid in the expansion tank. This will help you get out of trouble and get reliable operation of all systems in your car.

How to change antifreeze and not mix old fluid with new?

To replace antifreeze in a car, you must read the operating instructions for the vehicle. Below we will describe the general process of replacing the coolant in any car, but there are vehicles that have individual characteristics and requirements for this process. First and foremost, British car owners need to dive into the factory manuals. Often in these brands you can find specific drain plugs that will help you completely get rid of used antifreeze. The general fluid replacement scheme is as follows:

1. wait until the car has completely cooled down after operation (the fluid temperature will be below 40 degrees);
2. unscrew the cap of the expansion tank so that the liquid can suck in air and leave the system;
3. then substitute the containers under the plugs of the cooling system at the bottom of the car for subsequent draining;
4. unscrew the plug on the radiator at the bottom, as well as on the engine housing (or according to the instructions);
5. also unscrew the plug at the top of the radiator to allow liquid to drain normally from thin pipes;
6. wait until all the liquid has drained, in no case start the engine, but fully open the stove (or first turn on the climate for heating);
7. when the liquid has finished draining, tighten the plugs at the bottom of the radiator and in the engine (the upper radiator plug can be left for now);
8. pour the right amount of liquid through the expansion tank, do not rush, but do not pause;
9. when the liquid is filled, close the radiator cap, start the engine and let it warm up the new liquid completely;
10. if necessary, add more fluid to match the level indicated on the expansion tank.

Also do not forget to close the reservoir cap after performing all the necessary checks. It often happens that the cover remains open, through which the liquid pours over the entire engine compartment. As you can see, the process of replacing antifreeze turns out to be quite simple, there is no need to pay money for this business at the service. But if you are performing a set of works in a specialized workshop, you should find out the price of replacing antifreeze. Perhaps there is no point in messing with all these processes on your own.

How to choose a good antifreeze for a car?

When choosing antifreeze for your car, we recommend that you fully adhere to the recommendations of the manufacturers. This is an important point that will help maintain the performance properties of the engine and prevent overheating during operation. If for domestic cars overheating of the engine by 5 degrees is a normal condition for use, then for Japanese units, for example, this will bring serious problems. Therefore, it is necessary to choose a liquid with an understanding of all responsibility. In particular, the following factors will have to be taken into account when buying:

• technical characteristics of antifreeze fully comply with the requirements specified in the instructions for your car;
• the liquid container is sealed at the factory, the lid is protected from involuntary unscrewing;
• the plastic of the container is transparent or light, through it you can clearly see the color of the liquid;
• the color is bright and saturated, it will be perfectly visible through the plastic of the expansion tank in your car;
• the cost of antifreeze is not the lowest among all the options offered, this is an indicator of a fake;
• manufacturer known in the world of motorists, you should not buy liquid brands that you have not heard of.

These are not strict requirements for the purchase of antifreeze, but only recommendations that will help you purchase a quality liquid. The operation of a car is often associated with the search for equipment or technical means for repair and restoration work. And in each such case, it is necessary to coordinate your purchase with the requirements of the manufacturer and other important factors in the quality of the purchased liquid. Such solutions will help you get the maximum quality in the operation of the power unit and other elements of your car. See the fluid change in an old Volkswagen using the following video as an example:

Summing up

It is difficult to say how correct the decision to replace antifreeze on your own will be, if it is possible to use the inexpensive services of specialists. By the way, at many service stations, when buying antifreeze, they offer a replacement for free. This is an important point that will save you time and money. If there is no opportunity to turn to professionals, then the only right solution would be to independently replace the technical fluid in the machine’s cooling system.

In any case, the terms of service should not be missed. You need to make sure that your car gets the proper quality of the equipment and does not constantly overheat or run in a cold mode. To do this, it is necessary to use high-quality technical fluids and replace them correctly, without mixing with waste materials. If you have already changed the antifreeze in your car yourself, tell us about this experience in the comments to the post.

Antifreeze is a special liquid designed for the car's cooling system. The peculiarity of this substance is that it does not freeze even at low temperatures. And this effect is possible due to the special composition of the liquid - ethylene glycol and water, which together form a dihydric alcohol. Antifreeze also contains so-called inhibitors - substances that slow down the corrosion process.

For the smooth operation of the car, it is extremely important to replace the antifreeze in a timely manner. we have already told you from the car, but we will describe in detail how to fill the cooling system with new antifreeze in this article.

The content of the article:

Terms for replacing antifreeze

The exact service life of the consumable cannot be called just like that - it all depends on the manufacturer of the refrigerant, the composition of the coolant and the additives added to it. Today, in the domestic market, you can find coolants made on the basis of silicate or carboxylate.

For example, foreign-made coolants that contain silicate must be replaced at least every 3 years, or once every 100-150 thousand km. run. Carboxylate-based antifreezes, under ideal conditions for the operation of the engine and cooling system, can work for at least five years or 250 thousand kilometers.

How to pour antifreeze into the cooling system?

New antifreeze is recommended to be poured only into a clean cooling system. However, before that, it is important to understand what exactly you are going to fill in. After all, there is no such confusing classification as that of coolants anywhere else.

To avoid the formation of air jams in the system, we put the car in a strictly horizontal position.

1) . We disconnect the uppermost pipe that supplies antifreeze to the engine (as a rule, it is located in the intake manifold area).

2) . Pour new antifreeze through the neck of the expansion tank, which is most conveniently done using a funnel.

3) . We fill it until it starts to flow out of the disconnected pipe, after which we put the pipe in place and clamp it at the junction with a clamp.

4) . The optimal level to fill is between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks.

5) . After pouring, close the tank cap tightly, start the car and warm it up until the fan turns on.

7) . Top up if necessary. Once again I want to note that the last point is performed only with a cold engine.

How to pour antifreeze into the cooling system (Video)

Video #1

Video #2

How much antifreeze should be added?

The amount of antifreeze that needs to be poured into the car's cooling system is usually indicated in the instruction manual for a particular model. But on average, this figure is 6-8 liters.

You can navigate using the "MIN" and "MAX" marks on the expansion tank. That is, as noted above, the liquid level in the tank must be between these marks.

How to add antifreeze to the cooling system?

You should find out the brand, type of liquid and supplement the contents to the required level with an identical composition. Work should only be carried out with a cold engine.

We first slightly open the cap of the expansion tank, which will eliminate excess pressure, after which we completely unscrew the cap and add antifreeze (we focus on the “MIN” and “MAX” marks).

It is not necessary to add antifreeze to the eyeballs, which is fraught with splashing out excess and getting them on the working parts of the power unit in a warm state.

What kind of antifreeze can be filled in?

What are they like? According to their composition, they are divided into:

• silicate;
• Carboxylate;
• Hybrid.

Each type has its own characteristics and characteristics.

silicate. They contain salts of inorganic acids - the main additives of this type of coolant. A negative characteristic of such a liquid is the formation of plaque. Salts form a thin film of plaque over time. It settles and does not allow the system to fully work, which can lead to heating of the car engine. Consequently, and to a greater consumption of oil and fuel.

Carboxylate. Contains organic acids. This type of antifreeze has the following designations: G12 or G12 +. Organic acids, unlike inorganic acids, do not form scale and plaque. They differ in anti-corrosion and anti-cavitation properties.

hybrid. Contains both organic and inorganic acids. This type has the following designation: G11. Combines the positive and negative properties of the two previous types.

A novelty among coolants is lobrid antifreeze - G12 ++ and G13 containing organic bases and mineral additives. Due to the unique composition, this substance can last up to 100,000 km.

The most common and popular option, although not of very high quality, is “Traditional Antifreeze”. Its service life is not more than 2 years. This type cannot withstand high temperatures. It starts to boil at 105 degrees Celsius. Of the "Traditional Antifreezes" antifreeze is the most famous.

Selection rules . When choosing a coolant, one should be guided by the qualitative features of each type. The presence of various additives significantly affects the quality and service life of the fluid. The quality and service life are also affected by the presence of various additives.

The lowest percentage of additives in G11 coolants, which affects product quality. It is not able to protect against scale and corrosion. The service life of this type of substance is not more than 2 years. In the case of large runs, it can be reduced to 6 months.

Antifreeze coolants such as G12 have a longer service life. As a rule, they have it from 4 to 5 years.

Carbon coolants without replacement can last at least 5 years.

Features and Warnings . Sometimes it becomes necessary to top up the coolant. To do this, you should purchase a new antifreeze of exactly the same type that is already poured into the car. Avoid mixing different types of liquids, even if they are the same color. It is highly forbidden to mix G12 and G11 antifreezes. They are incompatible.

G12+ fluids are miscible with two other types.

Is it possible to pour water into antifreeze?

If you convey the essence of the manufacturer's recommendations, then it is strictly forbidden to add water to antifreeze. This ban is justified by the fact that the coolant is enriched with appropriate additives that have a beneficial effect on the cooling system. They contribute to excellent lubrication and accelerated cooling of the engine.

How to find out what is flooded, antifreeze or antifreeze?

As a rule, motorists know what is poured into their cooling systems. But this is the case if we are talking about a permanent owner of a car. In fact, there can be a lot of reasons why a motorist wants to know what exactly is poured into the expansion tank of his car.

How to determine what is filled? There is a myth that antifreeze tastes sweet, but this is nothing more than just a myth. Yes, and you need to be careful when "tasting" - the chemicals that make up the coolant are extremely toxic.

What should a motorist do if he wants to know what kind of refrigerant is poured into the cooling system of his car?

• Feel and smell. Traditional antifreeze is odorless and feels oily to the touch. Russian "Tosol" to the touch will not be as oily.
• For resistance to frost. If you pour a small amount of coolant into a bottle and place it in the freezer, then it should not freeze. If it is frozen, then most likely it is "Tosol" of poor quality production, if not, then this, in all likelihood, is high quality antifreeze.
• Consumable compatibility with tap water. Take some coolant from your car's system and pour it into a bottle. In a one-to-one ratio, pour ordinary tap water into this bottle, wait about an hour. If you see a layering of substances, the mixture becomes cloudy or there is a precipitate, then this is Russian-made Tosol. When using high-quality foreign antifreeze, this should not occur.
• You can find out which refrigerant is filled in by density. But for this you will need a hydrometer - a special device for checking the density of the coolant. The test of the substance is carried out at an ambient or room temperature of more than 20 degrees Celsius. If the density of a substance is from 1.073 to 1.079 g / cm3, then you most likely have a good antifreeze.

It is an important component that is needed for the full existence of the car. Previously, antifreeze was used instead of antifreeze, but technical progress does not stand still and now each foreign car has its own. It is important for a car enthusiast to choose the right fluid.

The question is mainly of concern to beginners, but experienced motorists also have problems with how to add coolant. Therefore, in this article we will describe an algorithm of actions, when considering which you will never have problems with adding antifreeze.

Action algorithm:

1. Before adding antifreeze, you need to make sure that it is available and that it is suitable for your car.
2. Antifreeze is added only if the level of antifreeze is below the minimum mark.
3. In order to carry out the following steps, you must have antifreeze itself and clean water with you.

Do not forget that you can not pour cold water into a hot engine!

Antifreeze is not poured in its pure form, but in proportion with water. The proportion can be 1 part and one part 1/1 distilled water.

• It is advisable to have gloves with you in order not to get your hands dirty. If you pour antifreeze at a gas station, you can take gloves there. But every self-respecting car owner should always have gloves in the trunk.
• Open the hood. If you have recently purchased a car and do not know how the hood opens, then you should refer to the operating instructions for your car.
• Find the reservoir where the coolant is poured, if you don’t know, then again, look at the car’s operating instructions.
• Rotate the barrel lid one turn to release the pressure and then completely unscrew the lid.
• Do not unscrew the cover if the engine is overheated, as you can burn your hands.
• In order to fill in antifreeze, you must select the average value between the maximum and minimum marks.
• When the antifreeze is poured, then we twist the barrel lid back.
• After all of the above, start the car and check the coolant level.

And finally, if you follow all the rules, then the question is how