What is Antifreeze and How Does it Work?

Most Edina drivers are familiar with antifreeze, but not everyone is aware of what antifreeze is used for. If you’ve ever wondered what exactly antifreeze does for your car and why it’s so important, you’ve come to the right place! Join the auto service experts at Metropolitan Ford of Eden Prairie as we explore all the facts about antifreeze, answering the following questions:

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

What is Antifreeze?

Our service department often assist Minnetonka drivers who ask, “Is antifreeze coolant?” While some use the terms interchangeably, coolant is technically a mixture of antifreeze and water. The most common coolant mixtures are 50% antifreeze and 50% water, but there are more potent (and more expensive) coolant options that can be 70% antifreeze and 30% water. It might sound like antifreeze and coolant achieve opposite results, but essentially they both help to regulate your engine’s temperature while you drive.

Typically, antifreeze is composed of ethylene glycol or propylene glycol. It’s either green, pink, or orange in color, depending on its properties. Most vehicles take green antifreeze, but you should check your owner’s manual first to ensure you purchase the proper color for your make and model.

What is Antifreeze Used for?

Antifreeze is stored in your vehicle’s radiator and is connected by a reservoir in the engine bay. It gets circulated throughout your engine by the water pump, which allows it to move combustion-generated heat away from your engine. The now-hot coolant is then circulated back to the radiator, where it’s cooled by air to remove excess heat. This cycle is constantly repeating while you drive, working to keep your engine running at a safe temperature.

Why is Antifreeze Important?

Antifreeze is vital to keep your vehicle running safely in Chanhassen. It’s specially formulated to prevent overheating and keep your coolant from freezing in below-zero temperatures. If you were to run your engine without any coolant in it, you’d risk major damage to these critical components:

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

If your hood is ever too hot to touch or there’s steam coming out from under it, you’ll want to schedule an appointment at a local service center immediately.

Rely On Metropolitan Ford of Eden Prairie for Expert Auto Service!

Fear your Ford vehicle is overheating? Contact our service department or give us a call at 952-943-8100 for assistance. Our expert service techs have the knowledge and experience to keep your vehicle running safely, and our convenient service specials can help you secure great savings on routine maintenance and more!