Warning Car Owners About Coolant Mixing

If you’ve ever popped the bonnet and noticed that your car’s coolant level is running low, it might be tempting to grab any old coolant to top it up. After all, it’s just coolant – right? Not quite. Using the wrong coolant or mixing different types, even those that are the same colour, can cause significant damage to your engine’s cooling system. Here’s why it’s crucial to understand what’s in your car’s cooling system and what to do if you’re unsure.

Why You Shouldn’t Mix Coolants

Modern vehicles use a wide range of coolants, each formulated with specific chemicals to suit particular engine designs. These coolants often contain ethylene glycol or propylene glycol, water, and corrosion inhibitors tailored for different engine materials, such as aluminium, or specific driving conditions, such as heavy-duty use in diesel engines.

The catch is that not all coolants are compatible. Mixing coolants with different chemical compositions can result in reactions that may damage your engine. For instance, some mixtures create corrosive acids that eat away at vital components, while others produce a thick, gel-like substance that clogs the cooling system. Both scenarios can lead to overheating, leaks, and expensive repairs.

But Aren’t Coolants Colour-Coded?

While coolant colours like green, red, pink, and blue may seem like a quick guide to compatibility, the reality is more complex. Colour is merely a dye added by manufacturers and is no longer a reliable indicator of a coolant’s chemical properties. This means that two coolants of the same colour might not be compatible, making it even more critical to know precisely what’s in your system.

What to Do If Your Coolant Is Low

If you find your coolant level below the minimum line and you’re unsure what type of coolant is already in your car, resist the urge to guess or mix products. Instead, top up the system with clean water – either tap or demineralised water is fine as a short-term solution. Water won’t harm your cooling system temporarily and ensures you avoid the risks of incompatible coolants.

Next, bring your car to West Car Clinic in Ridgehaven as soon as possible. Our team of professionals can inspect your cooling system for any underlying issues, such as leaks or contamination, and advise you on the correct coolant for your vehicle. A thorough inspection can save you from costly repairs down the road and keep your engine running smoothly.

Additional Safety Tips for Handling Coolant

• Always check your car owner’s manual for the recommended coolant type and replacement intervals.
• Never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot – the pressurised system can release scalding steam and coolant, causing serious burns.
• If you notice your car is consuming more coolant than usual, it may indicate a leak or other problem that needs immediate attention.
• Remember, ethylene glycol-based coolant is highly toxic. Keep it out of reach of children and animals, and clean up any spills promptly.

Avoid Coolant Chaos: A Must-Know Guide for Car Owners

Your car’s cooling system works tirelessly to keep the engine at its optimal temperature. However, maintaining it properly requires attention to detail – especially when it comes to coolant. Here’s everything you need to know about avoiding costly mistakes, protecting your car, and seeking professional help when needed.

If in doubt, top up with water temporarily and visit West Car Clinic in Ridgehaven for expert advise, or for safe measures get your vehicle towed to us for assessment and repairs.

Understanding the Role of Coolant

Coolant isn’t just about keeping your engine cool. It also prevents corrosion, lubricates moving parts, and ensures your car runs efficiently. But not all coolants are the same. The chemical composition varies based on the needs of specific engine designs, and using the wrong type can have serious consequences.

The Dangers of Mixing Coolants

Mixing incompatible coolants, even if they’re the same colour, can create significant problems. Chemical reactions between different coolants can lead to:

- Corrosion inside your engine, damaging seals and components.
- Sludge or gel build-up, which clogs the cooling system.
- Overheating, which can cause engine damage if not addressed quickly.

These risks underline the importance of using only the coolant specified by your car manufacturer or recommended by professionals.

Safe Steps When Low on Coolant

If your coolant level is low but you’re unsure what type is in your system, follow these steps:

Why Visit West Car Clinic?

At West Car Clinic, we specialise in diagnosing and resolving cooling system issues. Whether your car has a leak, contaminated coolant, or requires a full system flush, our experienced technicians can help. We’ll ensure your cooling system is in top condition, protecting your engine and avoiding future problems.

Proactive Maintenance Is Key

Keeping your cooling system in good health is as much about prevention as it is about timely action. Regularly check your coolant levels, monitor for signs of leaks or overheating, and always stick to your car manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance.

When in doubt, trust the experts. Contact West Car Clinic in Ridgehaven today for all your cooling system needs – we’re here to keep your car running smoothly.