Car owners should use the correct radiator fluids. Coolants or radiator fluids help extend the engine’s lifespan and functionality. In extreme weather, a coolant, a mixture of antifreeze, water, and chemical additives, aids in maintaining the ideal temperature. Radiator fluids for automobiles come in a variety of colors. Coolant is one of the most critical fluids to consider when maintaining your vehicle’s engine.
Often overlooked, coolant plays a crucial role in ensuring your engine operates efficiently and safely. Its primary functions are to prevent overheating, reduce corrosion, and keep the engine running smoothly. However, with various radiator fluid types available, each distinguished by color and composition, choosing the right one for your car can be confusing.
How is Radiator Fluid Necessary for Your Vehicle?
The engine block, one of the most essential parts of a car engine, is where the heat escapes from the combustion chamber thanks to the coolant in the vehicle. Since 1923, ethylene oxide-based coolants have been the standard for automobile owners. It took more than 10 years to form green and traditional antifreeze radiator fluids.
At the end of the 1990s, car owners switched from using conventional coolant. Coolant replacements include organic, inorganic, and hybrid acid technology. Furthermore, this article will explain how to choose the correct radiator fluid colors for coolant.
What is the Bad Radiator Fluid Color?
When the radiator colors turn brownish, it means it has become contaminated, and there is an issue with the vehicle’s cooling system. The coolant may seem opaque or blurry due to the presence of contaminants. However, car owners should flush the system thoroughly using proper car radiator flushing fluid and refill the coolant using the owner’s manual.
Different Radiator Fluid Colors and Their Use in Coolant Types
The coolant used in inorganic acid technology is green. It is one of the most common types of coolant or radiator fluids. Automakers have used it for 70 years. General Motors stopped using it in 1994, and cars like Ford switched to another coolant in 2001. These green inorganic fluids break down quickly and only last a short time. As a result, car owners should think about getting new ones.
Orange is the color of organic acid technology. It has a dyed yellow color to differentiate it from the other OAT coolant. The OAT cooling radiator fluid for automobiles comes in various colors, including blue and dark green. Permanent antifreeze was its name. However, due to the shifting requirements, it was eventually replaced. Additionally, it is free of silicates and provides more extended protection than an IAT coolant. Blue coolant is borate-free and is usually typical for Japanese vehicles supplied with this coolant.
Red coolant is the type of coolant used in modern vehicles. Furthermore, modern cars consist of aluminum radiators. In contrast to green coolants, which use inorganic acids, red coolants use organic acids. Green, red, pink, blue, and orange are used in hybrid acid technology. G12 and G13 are variants of OAT and HOAT technology. In engines with alloy wheels meeting G12 specifications, pink and red HOAT coolants are utilized. The blue color additive is used in engines with G11 ratings.
Can You Mix Different Types of AntiFreeze Radiator Fluids?
It is not ideal to mix different types of coolant. It will form a gel-type substance that will contaminate and clog the cooling system. However, do not replace the various types of coolants as they can reduce engine efficiency and cause overheating and damage. Moreover, it is ideal to use the same kind of coolant. Always remember that the radiator fluid color does not specify the same type.
Therefore, car owners should also read the coolant’s properties. It helps them to choose the correct radiator fluid easily. Additionally, some coolants need to add water to them. However, some already have water in them. Car owners should read the instructions before filling the vehicle’s radiator fluid container.
What Type of Radiator Fluid is Best for Your Vehicle?
Most vehicles use glycol-based radiator fluids. The owner’s manual can help you determine the correct type of radiator coolant for your car.
Can You Use Water as Fluid for The Radiator?
Yes, the car owners should decide to do it in case of emergencies. Water freezes at 0° C, which is harmful under extreme weather conditions. The water in the cooling system can also be detrimental in hot weather. The car engine reaches a temperature of 100 F and goes above it. It cannot dissipate heat from the engine as the water will not evaporate. It can increase the rust and corrosion in the engine cooling system.
Can You Drive with Radiator Fluid Leak?
Due to radiator fluid leakage, car owners can experience issues such as low coolant levels and overheating engines. These issues can minimize a vehicle’s engine lifespan. Therefore, car owners should promptly address these issues and consider replacing them to ensure optimal engine performance.
Tips for Choosing the Right Coolant of Radiator Fluid
Here are some of the fantastic tips that can help you choose the right radiator fluid for your car:
Consult Your Vehicle’s Manual
Always check the owner’s manual for your vehicle to determine the recommended type of coolant. Manufacturers provide specific guidelines based on the vehicle’s design and cooling system requirements.
Avoid Mixing Different Coolants
It is generally advised not to mix different types of coolants. Doing so can cause chemical reactions that could harm the engine and reduce the coolant’s effectiveness.
Check for Compatibility
Ensure your coolant or radiator fluid is compatible with your vehicle’s cooling system. Some coolants require dilution, while others come ready to use.
Be Cautious of Radiator Fluid Color
Coolant color alone should not determine your choice. While color can provide some clues, checking the label and ensuring the coolant meets your vehicle’s specifications is crucial.
Regular Maintenance
Check the coolant level and condition regularly for your vehicle’s maintenance routine. The coolant should be changed according to manufacturer recommendations to avoid overheating and corrosion.
Wrapping Up
Car owners should consider radiator fluid types and the owner’s manual for their needed products. This way, they can choose the correct coolant for their vehicle. Coolant helps to increase engine compatibility for a longer duration and optimizes performance. In addition, consider the vehicle’s age and make. Additionally, they should avoid mixing coolant to prevent car engine failure and issues.
