Why is it important to select antifreezes according to tolerances?

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The cooling system protects the car engine from overheating. An internal combustion engine consists of a set of interacting mechanisms; they create friction, which heats the engine. The cooling system helps reduce the temperature using a special liquid - antifreeze. It constantly circulates in the engine, without this movement it can fail. In this regard, the question “ which antifreeze is better to choose ” is relevant.

It is recommended to constantly monitor the level and condition of antifreeze, so the driver regularly faces the need to add or change coolant. modern antifreeze is , what types it is divided into and how to determine which one is suitable for the car.

What is antifreeze?

This is a special coolant that does not freeze at normal temperatures, only at extremely low temperatures (below - 40). Freezing, it turns into flakes, and when heated, it increases in volume up to 15%, due to which operating pressure is created in the system. The chemical composition of antifreeze includes alcohols and various additives. Additives neutralize the negative effects of alcohols on metal, gaskets, rubber seals, hoses and other components of the system. Some types help find leaks using ultraviolet light. Heating the coolant accelerates some chemical reactions, which also destroys parts.

Which antifreeze is better?

Coolants vary in composition, color, freezing point, additive packages, service life and other parameters. There is no single standard; manufacturers themselves determine the composition, keep the additive package secret, and color the liquid at their discretion. The question “ what color of antifreeze to fill ” is inappropriate, if the motorist does not know what kind of antifreeze was poured into the car, it is not worth taking the same color, since it may be a liquid of different composition that will react and form a sediment.

The answer to the question “ which brand of antifreeze is better” is the one allowed by the car manufacturer. Manufacturers usually recommend which antifreeze is suitable for each engine.

Let's look at the markings:

1. G11 class of antifreeze based on ethylene glycol, most suitable for cars up to 1996. There are no amines, borates or phosphates here. They are most often produced in green, but yellow and blue shades can also be found. Service life – 2 years.
2. The next type is G12, based on propylene glycol, suitable for cars from 96-01. Produced in red-orange-violet shades. Service life up to 5 years.
3. G12+ contains no harmful elements (amines, borates, nitrites, etc.); they are used for cars manufactured after 2001. The color scheme depends on the manufacturer, most often found in lilac-violet.
4. Antifreeze marked G13 is the maximum heat-intensive and thermally conductive product. Suitable for sports cars and motorcycles. Produced using sophisticated technology.

Top 10 antifreezes

Liqui Moly Langzeit Kuhlerfrostschutz GTL12 Plus 5L

This product was developed by German specialists. It is a blue-colored liquid that is well suited for all types of engines, regardless of their materials of production: cast iron, aluminum alloys, and so on. Antifreeze will efficiently cool an engine equipped with an intercooler.

Antifreeze retains all its performance qualities in an extended temperature range - from -40 to +110 degrees. The service life of the liquid ranges from 2 to 5 years depending on the conditions of use. It complies with all existing international standards and is recommended for most engines.

Advantages:

• It removes excess heat well from the heating elements of the motor, preventing it from overheating;
• With its help, a protective layer is created on metal parts, which protects them from oxidation;
• Acts as an additional lubricant for the pump, which will extend its service life;
• Does not corrode plastic and rubber elements;
• Thanks to this product, you can use the car in a wide range of temperatures.

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Flaws:

• High price;
• Very low boiling point - +109 degrees.

Liqui Moly Langzeit Kuhlerfrostschutz GTL12 Plus 5L

Toyota Long Life Coolant Red Concentrate 1L

This is concentrated antifreeze - a red-colored liquid. Can be used not only in Toyota cars, but also in a number of other models. Mixing with other coolants is strictly prohibited. Before filling, antifreeze must be diluted with distilled water in equal proportions. The resulting coolant will withstand temperatures down to -37 degrees, which is quite enough for the middle zone. During operation it does not form sediment.

Advantages:

• Reliably protects the car engine, regardless of the materials from which it is made;
• Capable of reliably removing excess heat, increasing the stability of all vehicle systems even under heavy loads;
• Works well with seals and pipes made of plastic or rubber.

Flaws:

• It can be difficult to find;
• High price.

Toyota Long Life Coolant Red Concentrate 1L

Liqui Moly Motorbike Langzeit Kuhlerfrostschutz GTL 12 Plus 1L

The main area of ​​use of this coolant is the engines of bikes and motorcycles, but it is also allowed to be poured into car engines. It is perfectly compatible with both cast iron alloys and aluminum-based alloys, from which all modern engines are made. Sold in a completely ready-to-use form, does not need to be mixed with distilled or softened water.

Advantages:

• Prevents the car's cooling system from freezing;
• Reliably protects against corrosion;
• It removes heat well, preventing the engine from boiling;
• Designed for optimal performance with motors made of aluminum alloys.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

Liqui Moly Motorbike Langzeit Kuhlerfrostschutz GTL 12 Plus 1L

TCL Power Coolant Green -40 2L

This is one of the best antifreezes made in Japan. It is made on a carboxylate or organic basis - it fully complies with all international standards and requirements, in particular G12/G12++.

It contains special components that minimize the impact of friction on vehicle elements. This allows you to extend the life of vehicle parts, primarily the engine and pump. It is produced on the basis of a number of organic acids.

Advantages:

• Operates over a wide temperature range – from -40 to +110 degrees;
• Creates a protective film on the engine that prevents corrosion and other destructive processes;
• The composition contains only organic substances that do not form sediment during operation.

Flaws:

• When the temperature drops, it becomes too viscous, which makes circulation through the cooling system difficult.

TCL Power Coolant Green -40 2L

AGA Z40 5L

This coolant can be used in engines of trucks and cars of various brands. At the same time, the engine can run on both gasoline and diesel fuel, and shows itself very effectively in forced engines. Does not need replacement within 150 thousand kilometers. Antifreeze additionally protects the pump seals from destruction and protects all metal parts from corrosion and cavitation processes.

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The liquid is colored red and is compatible with any antifreeze and antifreeze, regardless of color, provided that they are made on the basis of ethylene glycol. If necessary, up to 10% distilled or soft water can be added to the composition.

All added additives are of high quality; they ensure reliable operation of the fluid in the temperature range from -40 to +123 degrees.

Advantages:

• Low price;
• Compatible with most other coolants;
• High boiling point;
• Easy to find on sale;
• Cleans the engine well from contaminants.

Flaws:

• The freezing temperature is slightly higher than stated.

Antifreeze AGA Z40

AGA Z42 10L

This is one of the best green antifreezes; it can be used in both domestic and foreign engines. It realizes its characteristics most effectively in turbocharged engines that operate at high speeds that occur during acceleration or at high speeds.

Antifreeze retains its beneficial qualities at different pressures and in a wide temperature range - from -42 to +123 degrees. It contains a fluorescent dye that lights up under ultraviolet light, making it easier to find leaks.

Advantages:

• Perfectly protects metal engine parts from hypothermia or overheating;
• Low freezing point;
• High anti-corrosion and lubricating qualities;
• Reliable protection against cavitation;
• Versatility;
• Compatible with most engines.

Flaws:

• Formation of sediment during operation.

Antifreeze AGA Z42

AGA Z65 5L

This is a universal coolant that can be used on trucks and cars, regardless of what brand of engine is installed in the vehicle. Manufacturers recommend using such antifreeze in engines equipped with turbocharging, intercoolers, and also if the car is used in winter conditions in areas with little airflow, which often happens in urban areas.

The manufacturer guarantees that the product can operate reliably without replacement for 5 years or 150 thousand kilometers. The coolant contains organic additives that provide high heat capacity and the ability to operate in the temperature range from -65 to +132 degrees.

Advantages:

• Long period of operation;
• A significant amount of additives;
• Good degree of corrosion protection.

Flaws:

• During operation, sediment forms quite quickly.

Antifreeze AGA Z65

Sintec Unlimited 5L

Antifreeze is produced using the latest bipolar technology based on high-quality ethylene glycol. In terms of its performance properties, this is one of the best compositions, so it rightfully occupies one of the first places in the ranking of antifreezes. It has been subjected to a number of functional tests to confirm its high quality. The freezing point of the liquid is lower than what the manufacturer claims - antifreeze begins to crystallize at -45 degrees, which allows it to be used even in the most severe climatic conditions.

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Advantages:

• The composition contains very active inhibitors that neutralize rust;
• The freezing point is much lower than indicated on the packaging;
• Can be used for more than 5 years.

Flaws:

• It was not revealed.

Antifreeze Sintec Unlimited

Felix Energy G12+ 1L

This is a domestically produced composition that is suitable for absolutely any vehicle: with a forced engine; with engines equipped with turbocharging and used in rather harsh climatic conditions, with an intercooler and so on.

Antifreeze allows the vehicle to be used in a temperature range from -40 to +50 degrees, while the liquid itself retains its performance properties from -48 to +130 degrees. This product blocks rust areas, forming a layer no more than 1 micron thick on them.

Advantages:

• Expanded scope of application;
• High boiling point;
• The anti-corrosion additive performs a large number of functions in the engine;
• Acceptable price.

Flaws:

• Crystallization begins at a higher temperature than stated by the manufacturer.

Antifreeze FELIX Energy

Lukoil Antifreeze G12 Red 5L

One of the best antifreezes intended for VAZ cars and other domestic cars. The liquid is produced using carboxylate technology, which ensures a low freezing point. It is used exclusively in closed engine cooling systems of cars and trucks and is capable of operating at temperatures down to -40 degrees.

Thanks to this product, it is possible to provide reliable protection of the entire cooling system from freezing, scale formation or overheating. Antifreeze can even be used for engines made from aluminum alloys that are subject to high loads during operation. It does not have a destructive effect on rubber hoses and plastic parts.

Advantages:

• Can be mixed with antifreeze of any color;
• Increased thermal conductivity;
• Efficiency of application.

Flaws:

• Not identified.

Antifreeze LUKOIL Red G12

Types of antifreeze

In modern cars, hybrid and lobride engines are more often used; which antifreeze is better to fill in?

• A package of additives is added to hybrid ones: 60% are inorganic salts, the rest are carboxylates. Such a liquid serves for a long time, some of the additives settle on the walls and protect against corrosion, the rest settle in places where the system is damaged. Among the disadvantages is low heat transfer due to the density of the layer deposited on the walls.
• In lobrides, carboxylates predominate, and inorganic salts account for only 10%. Here, the system of targeted damage elimination prevails, and due to the low combination of salts, their layer is thin and the level of heat exchange is higher here. These fluids are suitable for modern engines, but the downside is their high price.

Depending on the salts used in the inorganic part of the additives. Hybrid and lobrid antifreezes, despite the same mechanism of protection against corrosion, are divided into silicate (they are used by European manufacturers, the freezing point is up to -40) and phosphate (Korean and Japanese manufacturers; yellow freezes at temperatures up to -200, green - up to -250, red – up to -300).

Hybrids are marked G11, carboxylate (G12 and G12+), lobrid (G12++ and G13).

Technological differences between different types of additives

Depending on the types of additives, antifreeze performs a protective function differently. Thus, hybrid liquids form a thin film that covers the entire surface being washed, protecting it from rust. Carboxylates only affect the incipient source of corrosion. Hybrids are not suitable for some car brands (Ford, Chevrolet or Land Rover), because the film of silicates and phosphates harms their radiators. Other manufacturers (eg BMW) continue to use additives with mineral salts. This once again suggests that when choosing antifreeze for a particular car brand, you should be guided primarily by the tolerance and only after that by the principle of action of the additives and other factors.

Fakes

To the question “ what antifreeze should I fill?” You can also answer this way: “only original.”

The market is full of counterfeit products. Due to poor quality antifreeze, the engine may fail.

How to determine:

1. Place of sale. Certified, high-quality products cannot be sold in pieces on the side of the road. To purchase, choose specialized stores and large gas stations.
2. Cheapness. In this case, the low price should confuse and suggest a fake.
3. Appearance of the product. Strange, homemade labels, the pH level is not indicated in the description, there is a sediment - signs of a fake.
4. During use, it changes color and reduces its properties. If the liquid turns brownish, this means that rust is forming inside the engine and it is being destroyed.
5. Strong or unpleasant odor.

Antifreeze service life

The declared service life of fluid marked G11 is 2 years, G12 can last up to 5 years, about the same as a high-quality LED headlight. Manufacturers claim that coolants in the latest generation engines do not need to be changed at all; their shelf life completely coincides with the service life of the engine. Counterfeit products may become unusable within the first year of use. Carefully monitor the condition of the fluid; a change in color may indicate problems in the cooling system or poor quality composition.

If the liquid has become transparent, it must be replaced because it has lost its characteristics.

Catalog selection

You can select antifreeze by car brand using catalogs published on specialized websites. On such resources, car owners are asked to fill out a form indicating the car data: make, model, year of manufacture, fuel type, engine size and power. After this (usually in a new window) a list of suitable types of coolants opens. In some cases, for each of the selected types of antifreeze, tolerances are indicated for factors such as:

• frost protection temperature;
• operational resource;
• Compatible with factory antifreeze.

In addition, the user can see the degree of protection effectiveness:

• cast iron and steel;
• non-ferrous metals;
• rubbers and plastics;
• from cavitation of light and commercial vehicles;
• from cavitation of heavy vehicles.

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How to choose?

Observe the following rules:

1. Choose a fluid that matches your car class.
2. Check the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations for what kind of antifreeze you can fill
3. Determine the desired freezing temperature.
4. Buy from trusted places.
5. Do not try to match the liquid by color if you do not know or do not remember what you poured; if necessary, change it completely.

Checking the coolant level and, if necessary, adding and replacing is an important stage in preparing the machine for cold weather and comfortable use in winter. Don’t forget about other life hacks that will help you easily survive the winter behind the wheel: monitor the battery charge, replace standard halogen headlights with ergonomic LED headlights, change the oil, do not put the car on the handbrake, always pre-warm the car. Write down the brand of antifreeze or keep the packaging in your car, then there will be no difficulties with the choice.