What happens when you mix different kinds of coolant?
Have you ever used different types of coolant on your car? If yes, here is what you need to know.
There are different types and classifications of coolant which are listed at the back of the storage container. For example, an organic coolant (Red Coolant) has key organic acid technologies; the other one is inorganic coolant (Green Coolant).
What happens when you mix them together?
By understanding the purpose of the coolant, which is to take away the heat from the engine and take it to the radiator, where the cooling returns and the circle continues.
So each coolant is made with different types of chemical composition, each reacting differently when exposed to heat. You can get the first one forming a protective layer and the second one does not form a protective layer.
After they get mixed and exposed to heat, they combine and form a chemical reaction which forms a jelly-like substance which will end up clogging the radiator fins and the waterways, causing destruction of the water pump or thermostat. For some vehicles, the components are so expensive to replace which will cost huge bills that will cover the repairs of the damage.
What do I do when I want to change from one type of coolant (The Red One) to another type of coolant (The Green one)?
To change from different types of coolant, the first thing is that you will need to do a coolant flushing which can be done in different types of garage close to you. The best recommendation is Precision Automotive, where an experienced technician will drain the entire content of the radiator, green or red coolant and clean out the system and top up the right coolant of your choice.
The other thing is to make sure the cooling system in your vehicle is well maintained to ensure that there is better cooling efficiency.
Can I use water instead of a coolant?
Water sometimes may be acceptable for a short time, especially during an emergency when the car has drained the coolant, and you can’t really find a way to get a new one. Many car owners still rely on water as their way to cool their car’s engine not knowing the long-term issue that has been caused.
Using water can result in rust, corrosion, mineral buildup and engine overheating so fast. Water doesn’t have anti-corrosive properties and has a lower boiling point than a coolant. Also, water does not contain lubricants that may cause a premature water pump (the water pump dying before its uptime ends).
