How to choose antifreeze for a car

For a long time, water was used as the main fluid in the car cooling system. Currently, it has been replaced by antifreeze – a special chemical composition capable of operating in a wide temperature range – from -50 to +50 degrees, without evaporating or crystallizing at the same time. In order to ensure the performance of the car in any conditions and to exclude engine overheating, the choice of antifreeze should be given the utmost attention, based in its choice on the recommendations of the car manufacturer.

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The best manufacturers of antifreeze

Given the special chemical formula, the production of high-quality antifreeze is the lot of well-known concerns that produce all kinds of technical fluids for a car:

1. Hepu

2. Mannol

3. Total

4. Liqui moly

5. Castrol

6. Shell

In addition to the information provided by the manufacturer, the car owner should take into account user reviews describing the physical properties of a particular coolant. You can get acquainted with them on the Internet, on thematic forums or on social networks.

Types of antifreeze. Which one to prefer?

Antifreeze is a special chemical composition designed for operation at temperatures down to -50 degrees while maintaining its physical state and chemical formula. The high-temperature viscosity of this fluid is also at a significant level: a properly selected antifreeze is able to ensure proper operation of the engine and prevent it from overheating, even with intensive vehicle operation. It goes on sale in a concentrated form, but for operation it requires dilution with distilled water in a 1: 1 ratio.

G11

Inorganic antifreeze based on ethylene glycol. It is colored blue or green. The working temperature range is from -50 to +50. Contains silicates.

Advantages

• It removes temperature well;

• Inexpensive;

• Does not crystallize;

disadvantages

• Causes deposits in the cooling circuit during long-term operation;

• Capable of corroding metal parts;

G12

A more advanced version of the above-described antifreeze, characterized by higher performance. In particular, it better removes the temperature from the central piston group and prevents the engine from overheating. The composition contains carbosilicates, which are a corrosion inhibitor. Widely used in harsh climates and harsh operating conditions.

Advantages

• High temperature resistance;

• Do not evaporate;

• Prevents corrosion;

• Allow to avoid engine overheating;

disadvantages

• Cannot be mixed with other classes;

• Expensive;

G13

Antifreeze that meets modern environmental standards. An organic liquid that does not contain silicates. Painted yellow or orange. It is based on propylene glycol. The operating range is from -50 to +50.

Advantages

• Does not boil or crystallize;

• Prevents surface corrosion and formation of oxides;

• Can be mixed;

• High environmental friendliness;

disadvantages

• More expensive than all other types;

• Require strict adherence to the mixing ratio for maximum functionality;

Parameters for choosing a coolant for a car

In addition to the composition and basic principles of operation, attention should be paid to:

1. Tara. High-quality antifreeze is packed in a dense translucent container, on which the necessary protective elements are applied. A transparent container allows you to assess the purity of the liquid and the presence of impurities and suspensions;

2. The type and characteristics of the additives that make up the antifreeze. High-quality fluids contain corrosion and oxidation inhibitors, as well as special formulations that prevent premature aging of rubber elements;

3. Foaming. High-quality antifreeze foam after vigorous shaking, but the foam comes off within a short time;

4. The smell of high-quality antifreeze is neutral, sweetish. Impurities of gasoline, diesel fuel, engine oil must be completely absent;

5. Cooking formula. If the antifreeze is concentrated, it will require dilution with water in a ratio of up to 1: 1. If the coolant is ready for use, it must be poured into the expansion tank immediately, without additional preparation;

6. Vehicle manufacturer recommendations. They should not be neglected; it is best to fill in the antifreeze, the composition of which was originally provided by the manufacturer.

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Attention! This material is the subjective opinion of the authors of the project and is not a purchase guide.