Radiator Fluid

Radiator fluid is a commonly used term that actually refers to the antifreeze coolant and water mixture used in your car's radiator to cool your car engine when running and to help keep the engine from freezing in the winter when it is parked. Occasionally changing or topping off the radiator fluid in your vehicle is recommended to help keep your car engine running at its best.

There are three primary types of radiator fluid used in most vehicles today: ethylene glycol, propylene glycol and extended life coolant. Ethylene glycol is the most common type of anti-freeze/coolant and is usually mixed 50/50 with water to provide cooling protection for your vehicle when it is running. Ethylene glycol is better suited to Southern states that do not have harsh winters.

On the other hand, propylene glycol antifreeze coolants and extended life coolant's are typically mixed with water and a 70/30 ratio. A 70/30 ratio of antifreeze and water is better suited for very cold winter environments when protecting the engine from freezing up is more of a concern than the engine overheating.

Radiator fluid in your vehicle can become a acidic or contaminated with dirt and sediment and will occasionally need to be changed. When it is time to change the radiator fluid in your vehicle, you can take your vehicle to a service center or change the fluid yourself. Changing the radiator fluid in a vehicle simply involves draining the fluid from the radiator and refilling it with fresh antifreeze coolant and water.

For more information on radiator fluid, take a moment to read through the articles listed below.