What is Antifreeze?

If you’re stuck on questions like “what is antifreeze” and “is antifreeze coolant?” just know that you’re not alone. Many drivers in Lawrenceville, although they’re familiar with the term ‘antifreeze,’ are not actually sure what antifreeze is used for. Allow the service center at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Duluth to answer all of your questions in one convenient guide, including:

• What is antifreeze?
• What is antifreeze used for?
• Why is antifreeze important?

First, What is Antifreeze?

Frequently, the question “what is antifreeze?” is accompanied by “is antifreeze coolant?” Technically, coolant is a mixture that contains both antifreeze and water (usually a 50/50 ratio). However, there are more concentrated coolant mixtures consisting of about 70% antifreeze and only 30% water. Intuition might suggest that antifreeze and coolant should work against each other based on their names, but they actually perform the same function: regulating your engine’s temperature as you cruise on Suwanee streets.

What is antifreeze composed of? Ethylene glycol or propylene glycol. Depending on its properties, the color of antifreeze may be green, orange, or pink, with most vehicles receiving green antifreeze. Before you add any antifreeze to your vehicle on your own, you should confirm that you have the right type and color as suggested by your owner’s manual.

What is Antifreeze Used for?

Do you know where antifreeze is stored? There’s a reservoir in your vehicle’s engine bay that connects to the radiator, which is where the antifreeze is stored. Antifreeze is stored in the radiator so it can get circulated throughout the engine via the water pump (which contains the coolant), thus carrying the heat generated by combustion away from the engine. Now hot, it circulates back to the radiator where it is air-cooled to remove the heat. As you’re traveling through Johns Creek, this process is constantly happening to regulate the engine temperature!

Why is Antifreeze Important?

It’s crucial that you have antifreeze in your vehicle because it prevents the engine from overheating and ensures the coolant doesn’t freeze if outside temperatures reach below zero. Without it, your engine could incur serious and costly damage to its components, including:

• Water Pump
• Engine Cylinders
• Connector Rods
• Head Gasket

Avoid touching or opening your hood if it’s hot to the touch or has smoke billowing out, as this means your engine is overheating. Instead, pull over to a safe spot and call for assistance.

Schedule Engine Service at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Duluth

If you suspect your vehicle needs antifreeze or you’re experiencing engine issues, contact us or schedule service at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Duluth. Our service professionals will inspect your vehicle and fix any issues, so you can get back on the road safely and in a timely manner!