What is Antifreeze & Is It the Same As Coolant?

Chatham drivers often ask us what antifreeze is and whether or not it’s the same as coolant. At the Green Dodge service center, we also get questions about what antifreeze does and why it’s important. With the above in mind, let’s explore these questions together:

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

The Basics: What is Antifreeze?

Wondering if antifreeze is coolant? Technically, the answer is no. While some people do use the terms similarly, coolant is technically a mixture of antifreeze and water that’s ready-to-use. Most often, coolant contains 50% antifreeze and 50% water, but there are more potent (and more expensive) coolant choices that can be as much as 70% antifreeze and 30% water or more.

What is Antifreeze Made Of?

Antifreeze usually contains either ethylene glycol or propylene glycol. Most often, it’s green in color, but it can also sometimes be pink or orange. Not sure what type of antifreeze you’ll need for your vehicle? Contact us to learn more!

What is Antifreeze Used For?

Antifreeze is used to move heat away from your engine, ensuring it operates at a safe temperature. While this may seem counterintuitive given the name, antifreeze helps your engine maintain a kind of homeostasis in both the winter (preventing it from being too cold) and summer (preventing it from being too hot).

Where is Antifreeze Located in My Car?

Antifreeze is stored in your car’s coolant system within the radiator and is connected to the engine bay. The water pump circulates it around the engine, which allows it to move combustion-generated heat away from your engine. Eventually, the hot antifreeze cycles back into the radiator where it’s air-cooled to remove heat. This process continues to cycle as you drive around Rochester and Decatur.

Why is Antifreeze Important?

Antifreeze, or coolant, depending on what you use in your vehicle, helps you navigate Litchfield streets safely. At its essence, it is a crucial component of your vehicle’s cooling system, which in turn helps your car maintain a safe temperature by preventing engine freezing or overheating It flows through these engine components:

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

Sometimes, a car’s cooling system requires repair. If you notice that your hood is too hot or there’s steam coming out of it, you’ll want to schedule automotive service ASAP.

Green Dodge Can Help with Your Service Needs

Whether you have additional questions about antifreeze or other maintenance and service-related questions, feel free to contact our service department. At Green Dodge, we are happy to be your premier destination for new Dodge and RAM vehicles, not to mention quality service & maintenance!