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Does it matter what kind of coolant you put in your car?
Well, you use the coolant that is specified in your owner’s manual. If you just need to top it up, the recommendation is still the same, however it is unlikely to cause any serious problems if you add a litre of a different type of coolant, as long as you follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
Do certain cars need special coolant?
Different vehicles require different coolants. There are varieties for every type of vehicle, from diesel engines to American, Asian and European vehicles. Each one is specifically formulated to keep its designated engine type running in extreme temperatures.
Can I use different coolant in my car?
It’s entirely possible for two vehicles from the same manufacturer to use two completely different coolant types. 3. Just because a vehicle had one type of coolant when it left the factory doesn’t mean a different type of coolant wasn’t installed at some point in the life of the vehicle.
What happens if you use the wrong engine coolant?
Mixing different engine coolants or using the wrong coolant can impair the performance of the special additive packages; this can result in increased corrosion to the radiator. Using the wrong engine coolant can gradually lead to corrosion and damage to the water pump, radiator, radiator hoses and cylinder gasket.
Are there different types of coolant for cars?
It’s true, coolant liquid comes in different colors, most commonly green (orange for Dex-Cool®). Each color is a unique formula that should not be mixed. The below chart will help you decipher which fluid is in your vehicle. Reminder, you can often find the recommended type of coolant in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
When to replace the coolant in your car?
Once your car lets you know it’s time for a coolant flush, your best bet is to replace the coolant. Along with replacing engine coolant at the appropriate intervals, it’s also vital that you choose the right type of coolant for your car.
Where does the coolant go in a car?
From there, the coolant will run to the car’s radiator, also called the heat exchanger, and then back to the pump. When you first start your car, allowing the engine to warm up, the coolant will bypass the radiator. As the car heats up, the coolant system valve will allow the coolant to flow through the radiator.
What happens if you run your car without coolant?
Your vehicle needs engine coolant to run efficiently and safely. If you drive your car without doing an engine flush at the proper intervals, you risk expensive damage to the car’s cooling system, including the radiator, water pump and pipes. Over time, coolant becomes less effective.