Those hot summer days can leave you dehydrated! Nothing’s better on a steamy, hot summer’s day than a cool drink to refresh and replenish. And that’s where you and your vehicle have a lot in common! Your vehicle feels the heat just like you do!

Maintaining your vehicle coolant is essential to keeping your vehicle running right when the mercury rises.

Often the terms “coolant” and “antifreeze” are used interchangeably. But there is a difference between the two. Coolant combines water and glycol – typically ethylene glycol – while antifreeze is pure glycol. Antifreeze doesn’t freeze or boil as easily as water, so it’s often used for engines that run at higher temperatures.

Coolant, on the other hand, lowers the freezing point and raises the water’s boiling point, making it ideal for use in car engines. Coolant also contains rust and corrosion inhibitors to help protect your engine from rust and corrosion.

Put simply, coolant circulates through the engine and radiator, absorbing heat from the engine and dissipating it into the air. This helps keeps the engine at a constant temperature. But over time, coolant can break down, making it less effective. That’s when it’s time to replace that old coolant!

Especially in summer, coolant levels should be checked monthly. If your coolant is low top it up. Always remember NEVER to undo the radiator cap when the engine is hot! Always leave your vehicle sitting a while to cool down before removing a coolant cap. Star by removing the radiator cap and adding coolant to the system until it is full. You can use a 50/50 mix of water and coolant unless the owner’s manual states otherwise. Next, start the engine and let it throttle for a few minutes. This way, the coolant will circulate and reach all engine components. Finally, be sure to replace the radiator cap before driving the vehicle.

It’s important to make sure you use the right mix of coolant to keep your engine running smoothly. Never rely on just water alone as a coolant, as water will create rust and calcium deposits that will damage your radiator and engine!

If it’s been a while since you’ve had your coolant replaced bring your vehicle into us at Big O Tires in North Vancouver. We’ll check your coolant and can do a radiator flush for you, if needed! A ‘cool’ tip to keep you and your vehicle running smoothly this summer!