Consequences of using poor-quality antifreeze
Antifreeze removes excess heat and thereby keeps the engine at its normal temperature, preventing it from heating above the normal level. The main features of antifreeze include excellent protection of the cooling system from corrosion, as well as increased resistance to low temperatures.
As is known, water freezes at low temperatures, while methanol boils at high temperatures. Therefore, coolants based on ethylene glycol and water are actively used today. Such a mixture freezes at minus 49 degrees Celsius.
Problems caused by poor-quality antifreeze:
- Cooling system corrosion. Corrosion can destroy the radiator by simply eating it away. If the antifreeze does not contain enough inhibitors, corrosion will occur, which in turn will damage vehicle parts.
- Formation of deposits. Different particles that have not dissolved in the antifreeze can create deposits on metal parts. Deposits appear when antifreezes of different colors are mixed.
- Freezing of antifreeze. It is known that when freezing, water expands by 8%, while antifreeze expands by 1%. Antifreeze freezes gradually, first turning into a slurry and then into crystals. The final stage of freezing is its transformation into a solid body.
- Aggressive effect on the cooling system. This problem occurs because of poor-quality additives and is typical for rubber parts. Eventually they swell and soften.
- Engine overheating. Normal engine temperature while driving is 85-90 degrees. Antifreeze removes approximately one third of the heat generated during movement. If the coolant stops performing its function, the engine temperature will exceed the permissible temperature.
It should be remembered that mixing antifreezes from different manufacturers or of different colors can lead to serious vehicle failures. In any case, the best option is to consult a specialist about choosing antifreeze for your vehicle.