What is antifreeze, and why is it essential?
Antifreeze is a special liquid added to the engine's cooling system to prevent freezing in low temperatures. It also helps prevent corrosion within the system and maintains a stable temperature in extreme cold and heat.
The different types of antifreeze:
Antifreeze is available in different types, mainly differing in their base composition and the additives used. Traditional green antifreezes (IAT - Inorganic Acid Technology) contain phosphates and silicates and are mostly used in older vehicles because they effectively prevent corrosion but have a shorter lifespan. OAT (Organic Acid Technology) antifreezes, usually red or orange, have a longer lifespan and are recommended for modern vehicles as they protect the cooling system against corrosion using organic acids. There are also hybrid antifreezes (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology), combining the advantages of both types, offering a long lifespan and good protection. It’s essential to choose the type recommended by the manufacturer, as mixing different antifreezes can cause problems in the cooling system.
What should you know about the different colors of antifreeze?
Although it’s generally said that the color of the coolant indicates the product's properties, not all manufacturers adhere to this strictly. Therefore, it’s always important to read what the packaging specifies. It’s also crucial to check whether it is a concentrate or a pre-diluted product, as this will determine how it should be used. Nevertheless, some characteristics are commonly associated with the colors of antifreeze:
Green antifreeze:
Green antifreeze belongs to the category of IAT (Inorganic Acid Technology) antifreezes, specifically designed for older vehicle cooling systems. These antifreezes contain silicates and phosphates that effectively protect the engine against corrosion. The cooling system protection of green antifreeze works quickly but has a relatively short lifespan, typically needing replacement every 2-3 years.
They are used in older vehicles or those for which the manufacturer does not require more modern, longer-lasting antifreeze. IAT antifreezes are often more affordable, but their regular inspection and replacement are important for optimal protection.
Blue antifreeze:
Blue antifreeze is usually based on HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or, in some cases, enhanced IAT (Inorganic Acid Technology) and is mainly used by European car manufacturers like BMW, Volkswagen, and Mercedes. This type combines the quick corrosion protection of traditional IAT antifreezes (with silicates) and the long lifespan of OAT antifreezes (with organic acids). Blue antifreezes provide effective corrosion protection for aluminum, steel, and other metals in modern cooling systems.
The lifespan of blue antifreezes is generally longer than that of traditional green antifreezes but shorter than that of fully organic OAT antifreezes. A replacement is recommended every 4-5 years, and they are often used in newer European vehicles with strict cooling system requirements.
Pink antifreeze:
Pink antifreeze typically falls into the OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or hybrid antifreeze (HOAT) categories and is recommended primarily for modern vehicles. OAT antifreezes use organic acids as corrosion inhibitors and do not contain silicates or phosphates like traditional green antifreeze. This results in a longer lifespan, typically effective for up to 5 years or even 240,000 kilometers, offering better corrosion protection for aluminum and other modern cooling system components.
The temperature resistance of pink antifreeze is similar to other types, but it remains stable over longer periods, making it especially suitable for newer vehicle technologies.
Checking antifreeze at home:
Many people don’t know that you don’t necessarily need a workshop to check the condition of antifreeze. For a few euros, you can buy an antifreeze tester, which allows you to quickly and easily determine if a refill is needed.
How to measure the antifreeze temperature with a tester?
Measuring antifreeze is a simple, quick, and safe process if you follow our guide. Checking the coolant is an important step in preparing for winter, as it ensures that your cooling system is adequately protected against cold weather. You will need a tester, which you can easily find in the AutoAZ online shop.
Step-by-step guide for measuring antifreeze:
Create safe conditions:
Before starting the measurement, make sure that the engine has completely cooled down. If the engine is still warm, the cooling system is under pressure, and the coolant could be hot, which can be dangerous.
Removing the radiator cap:
Once the engine has cooled, carefully unscrew the radiator cap, usually located on the radiator or the expansion tank. Make sure no dirt enters the open system.
Using the antifreeze tester:
Insert the tester's suction pipe or pipette into the coolant and draw enough liquid to perform the measurement.
Reading the result:
Antifreeze testers indicate on a scale the temperature up to which the liquid provides freeze protection. Generally, a protection level below -18°C is considered adequate. If the measured value is higher than -18°C, the cooling system is insufficiently protected against the cold, and a refill or replacement is necessary.
Refilling and replacement:
If the result shows that the antifreeze is not providing enough protection, you can refill with a suitable concentration or replace the coolant entirely if needed.
Refilling antifreeze
If you find that the performance of the antifreeze is inadequate, it’s time to refill. However, be careful not to mix different types of antifreeze when refilling. Choose the same antifreeze or drain the old one first.
How to do it:
- Choose the right antifreeze: If the current antifreeze provides protection up to -18°C, it is sufficient to refill with -35°C antifreeze. If the temperature is only slightly above the desired level, a lower concentration may suffice.
- Stronger concentration if necessary: If the antifreeze temperature resistance does not reach -18°C, use a stronger concentration. Be cautious with the mixing ratios to avoid excessive dilution.
- Re-check: After using the vehicle, measure again to ensure the proper temperature resistance.
The key to safe operation lies in antifreeze
You don’t need to be a mechanic to take care of your car’s antifreeze. With the right tools, you can quickly and efficiently check and refill the antifreeze as needed. Remember that regular maintenance of antifreeze not only extends the life of the engine but also protects the cooling system from winter temperatures. If you are looking for antifreeze with good value for money, try A.Z. Meisterteile antifreeze, which is available in a wide range.
