The Nissan News On Radiator Blues: Antifreeze Vs. Coolant

Key Takeaways

• Nissan might be one of the top global automobile manufacturers, but without proper car care, their rides cannot withstand the test of time.
• Antifreeze and coolant are two fluids that your Nissan needs to maintain engine temperature.
• Although both coolant and antifreeze are used interchangeably by auto technicians and owners alike, there are stark differences between the two.
• The coolant regulates engine temperature preventing the radiator from seizing, while the antifreeze is mixed with coolant to add to the vehicle.
• Your Nissan needs both to function efficiently and can overheat without either fluid.

When most car owners think about maintenance, they consider things like oil changes and tire rotations. But one important aspect of car care that often goes overlooked is the radiator. Believe it or not, your radiator needs just as much attention as the rest of your vehicle. In fact, if you don’t take care of your radiator, you might end up with something called radiator blues. So, what are these radiator blues, and how can you avoid them? Keep reading to find out!

How Does Your Radiator Operate? –

The radiator is a critical component of your car’s engine. It helps to keep your engine cool and prevents it from overheating. The radiator works by circulating coolant through the engine. The coolant absorbs heat from the engine, and the radiator dissipates that heat into the air.

Two fluids can be used in a car’s radiator: antifreeze and coolant. Antifreeze is a liquid that helps to lower the water’s freezing point, while coolant is a mixture of water and antifreeze. For your car’s radiator to work correctly, it needs to have the correct mixture of water and antifreeze.

What are Coolant and Antifreeze? –

Coolant is a fluid that transfers heat away from car engines and other mechanical parts. It does this by circulating through the engine and absorbing heat, then flowing to the radiator, where the heat dissipates into the air. Antifreeze is added to the coolant to lower its freezing point, which prevents it from freezing in cold weather. The coolant and antifreeze work together to regulate engine temperature and prevent overheating.

How To Tell I Need to Add Coolant or Antifreeze? – 

If your car’s engine is overheating, it may be due to a lack of coolant or antifreeze. You can check the coolant level in your car’s radiator by opening the hood and looking at the reservoir. If the level’s considerably low, you’ll need to add more coolant. Use the correct coolant type for your car; consult your owner’s manual or ask a mechanic if you’re unsure.

What Happens to the Radiator if You Drive with Low Coolant and Antifreeze Levels? –

Low coolant and antifreeze levels mean insufficient fluids flow through the system to cool the engine. The extra heat can cause the radiator to crack and leak, leading to more engine overheating. In severe cases, the engine can seize up, causing irreparable damage.

Why Should I Flush and Replace the Coolant? – 

Excessive use can cause coolant to become acidic. Acidic contaminants flowing through the engine can cause corrosion and pitting, eventually leading to engine failure. To keep your car running smoothly and increase its longevity, it’s essential to flush and replace the coolant according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

How Often Should I Flush My Radiator and Replace the Coolant? –

Most carmakers recommend flushing and replacing the coolant every 30,000 miles or every two years, whichever comes first. If you frequent dusty or sandy roads, live in a hot climate or frequently tow a trailer, you may need to flush and replace the coolant more often.

What Are the Signs You Need to Add New Coolant? –

Stay alert for possible indicators that you need to add new coolant. These include a car that overheats quickly, steam coming from under the hood, or sweet-smelling antifreeze when you pop the hood. You should also keep an eye on the color of your car’s coolant. If it’s brown or rusty, it’s time for a flush and fills.

Why Is It Essential to Use the Right Coolant? –

Your Nissan car, truck, or SUV was designed to run on a specific type of coolant. Using the wrong kind can cause problems, from decreased performance to significant engine damage.

Make sure you know what type of coolant your car needs, and always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. If you’re unsure, ask your Nissan dealer or a certified technician. They’ll verify the coolant type best suits your car and how often you should flush and fill the system.

How to Choose the Right Coolant Mixture? –

Various factors influence your decision on what ratio of water to coolant you’ll use. The most important is the car’s cooling system design, but engine size and operating temperature also play a role.

You live in a hot climate – If you reside in an area where it gets hot, you should use a 50/50 mix of coolant and water. This will help protect your car’s engine from overheating.

Your car has an aluminum radiator -If your car has an aluminum radiator, you should use a 50/50 mix of coolant and water, regardless of the climate. This type of radiator is more susceptible to corrosion, so the additional protection offered by the coolant is essential. 

You live in a cold climate – Colder regions are where antifreeze shines. A 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water will help protect your car’s engine from freezing in freezing temperatures. 

Also read – 7 Ways to Remain Calm with an Overheating Engine

How to Keep Your Radiator from Seizing? –

In addition to checking on radiator fluid, you must schedule frequent maintenance to avoid car radiator problems. Professional auto technicians can check for leaks and advise you on the best type of radiator fluid for your car. They also prevent engine overheating by suggesting prompt measures.

Get Your Car Serviced AT Ladonia’s Best Auto Dealership!

Engine overheating can be a serious issue, but it doesn’t have to be. Suppose you schedule a service with Headquarter Nissan, serving Ladonia, AL. In that case, we can help get your car back on the road and running cooler than ever. Our team of experts will care for everything from checking the radiator fluid levels to flushing the system and replacing any old or damaged parts. We know how important it is to keep your car in top condition, so let us take care of this critical maintenance task for you. 

Don’t wait until your engine seizes; call us today and schedule a service!