There seems to be some confusion among Old Saybrook drivers regarding antifreeze. What is antifreeze? Is antifreeze coolant? What is antifreeze used for? All are legitimate questions that probably didn’t get covered way back in driver’s ed class. The service pros at Westbrook Toyota have all your antifreeze answers.

What is Antifreeze? Is Antifreeze Coolant?

If you’re wondering what antifreeze is used for, you’re not alone among Madison drivers who get regular maintenance where their antifreeze gets topped off without questions. Sometimes they ask, “Is antifreeze coolant?” Not really, since coolant is technically a mix of antifreeze and water, usually in equal parts. Some of the more powerful coolants are 70 percent antifreeze. Both coolant and antifreeze work to regulate your engine’s temperature. On its own, antifreeze is made of ethylene glycol or propylene glycol. It usually has a green, pink, or orange hue, and you can see it on the ground if it leaks. Your car’s owner's manual will tell you which color is right for your vehicle. Be very careful if you see signs of leakage not just for the sake of your car, but for the sake of your pets. They can be attracted to the sweet flavor, and antifreeze is highly toxic if consumed.

What is Antifreeze Used for?

Antifreeze starts in your car’s radiator and is circulated through the engine by the water pump. As it moves it takes combustion-generated heat with it, moving the heat away from the engine. This makes the antifreeze hot. It’s then returned to the radiator and air-cooled. This cycle constantly repeats as you drive in Clinton to keep your engine at a safe temperature that prevents engine damage. Antifreeze is important because it prevents your engine from overheating, and keeps your coolant from freezing in the winter. Without antifreeze, you could seriously damage your water pump, engine cylinders, connector rods, or head gaskets. If your car’s hood is ever too hot to touch, or there’s steam coming out from under the hood, schedule an appointment to have your antifreeze and radiator checked.

Learn More About Your Car with Westbrook Toyota

Now that you know what antifreeze is, take a few minutes to learn more about your car and how to maintain it with Westbrook Toyota! Visit our service hub for a collection of tips and tricks that’ll help you keep your car running smoothly for the long haul on the Westbrook roads.