What kind of coolant should I use?

A vehicle can't run for long without coolant. The function of automotive coolant is to transfer a large amount of heat from the engine to the radiator. This fluid is a "coolant": a heat carrier. Coolant protects against freezing, optimizes heat transfer in the engine, and prevents erosion and corrosion of engine components, even at high temperatures. Which coolant to choose? This article will tell you everything you need to know about choosing the right coolant for your vehicle.

What is coolant used for?

Coolant is an essential part of your vehicle. It maintains a constant temperature in the engine to keep it running smoothly and prevent it from overheating.

It is made up of:

• Purified water, which prevents the engine from overheating,
• Antifreeze, which protects the engine from the cold,
• Corrosion inhibitor, which prevents oxidation and scale buildup on the engine's metal parts.

What are the properties of coolant?

When it comes to temperature, coolant beats both hot and cold: it not only has a very low freezing temperature to prevent freezing in winter, but also a very high boiling temperature to prevent the engine from overheating. Coolant also ensures the cleanliness of the cooling circuit through which it passes. It prevents limescale buildup, protects metal components from oxidation, and prevents damage to hoses and rubber seals.

What types of coolant are there?

Coolants are further divided into 3 categories based on their composition:

1. Mineral Coolant

Mineral coolant is the first technology. Modern engine requirements do not accept it. It is still used in older cars. Its composition is based on ethylene glycol (MEG). The liquid is usually blue or green.

2. Organic coolant

This is the fluid we categorize as "universal". It is considered the most environmentally friendly and can be mixed with other types of fluids. Its composition is based on Propylene Glycol (MPG). It is available in yellow, pink or orange.

3 Hybrid coolant

Hybrid coolant is a mixture of the two previous coolants. Its technology has been developed to meet the specific requirements of certain car manufacturers.

How to choose your coolant according to its location?

Coolants are classified by the temperature at which they freeze and the temperature at which they evaporate. Each type of coolant has a different ability to withstand extreme temperatures. That's why it's important to choose a coolant based on where you live.

• If you live in a warm region with exceptional winter temperatures of -15°C (about once every five years), we recommend a type 1 coolant: it freezes below -15°C and evaporates at 155°
• If you live in a more temperate region where you do not experience extreme temperatures, you should choose type 2 coolant: it freezes below -18°C and evaporates at 108°
• If you live in the mountains, where temperatures can drop to -20°C, we recommend type 3 coolant: it freezes at -35°C and evaporates at 155°

And don't forget! If you're going on vacation in the snow and normally use type 1 or 2 coolant in your vehicle, it's a good idea to use type 3 coolant instead. To maintain the effectiveness of the substance, be careful not to mix them.

When should I change my coolant?

On average, it's a good idea to change your cooling system every 3 years or 30,000 km. But depending on the type of product you choose, you may need to change your coolant sooner. In fact, mineral coolants have a shorter life span than organic coolants:

• Mineral coolant life expectancy: 2 years.
• Organic coolant life: 4 years.

How much does coolant cost?

The cost of coolant can vary depending on a number of factors, including the brand, the type of coolant, the capacity of the can, and where you buy it. In general, the price of a new can of coolant ranges from about $10 to $15 for a capacity of 1 to 5 liters.

It's important to choose quality coolant to keep your vehicle's cooling system running smoothly and avoid potential problems. Choosing a brand name coolant or one recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer can be a wise decision to maintain engine life and performance.

When labor is added, a coolant change can cost anywhere from $30 to $100.

Now you know how to choose the right coolant for your vehicle!