Many people believe that the color of the coolant represents the chemical formula and affects the compatibility with the engine. However, this is not entirely correct. Let’s find out and find out how to choose the right type for your car.
1. Why does cooling water come in different colors?
Previously, colors were used as a way of distinguishing different chemical formulas:
- Green: water based ethylene glycol, toxic but common in cars.
- pink: water based Propylene glycol, less toxic, often used in camping vehicles (RVs).
However, at present, color is no longer the main criterion to identify ingredients and compatibility. Most modern coolant types can blend together without affecting engine performance.
Even so, automakers (OEMs) continue to use different colors to distinguish their products in the market. This makes many people mistakenly think that only “standard” water is suitable for their car. when realistic The most important factor is the chemical composition, not the color.
2. Organic Acid Technology (OAT) – Steps in Cooling Water
Previously, cooling water used Inorganic Additive Technology (IAT) With anti-corrosion substances such as silicate and phosphate. The disadvantages of this technology are:
- Anti-corrosion agent is less durable, needs to be replaced every 1-2 years.
- Easily form deposits in the cooling system, reducing heat dissipation efficiency.
Currently, car manufacturers have switched to Organic Acid Technology (OAT) With many outstanding advantages
- Anti-corrosion has a longer service life, better engine protection.
- Can use from 5-10 years before it needs to be replaced.
- Minimize the formation of deposits, helping the cooling system work more efficiently.
In addition to OAT, some models also use Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (Hoat) – Technology combines IAT and OAT, providing higher protection efficiency.
Although the OAT coolant can be compatible with many different types. The best Hung Check the vehicle specifications before use. to ensure optimal performance.
3. Is the color of coolant important?
One of the common misconceptions is to think that the coolant must have the same color as the original water of the vehicle. However, this incorrect Because:
- Color is just a dye, does not determine quality or compatibility.
- Most of today’s cooling water can be blended without harming the engine.
Some garages use colorless cooling water to avoid conflicts with old colors in the system
Many people worry that if mixed with different colors, the system will be damaged. Reality, Mixing the coolant can cause the color to change (e.g. from green to brown), but this does not affect the cooling performance.
Even so, if the coolant is mixed with different chemical formulas (e.g. IAT with OAT), it can effectively reduce the protection of the engine. Therefore, it is recommended to use cooling water in accordance with the car’s cooling technology instead of just caring about the color.
4. How to choose the right coolant for the car
When choosing a coolant, you should rely on the following factors:
Check the vehicle’s manual
Each type of vehicle is designed to use a certain type. Check the manual to see which one is suitable.
Choose coolant by technology, not color
Pay attention to cooling water technology (Oat, Hoat, IAT) instead of just relying on color.
Use cooling water that meets ASTM standards
The American Materials and Testing Association (ASTM) regulates coolant performance standards. Choose a standard product to help protect the engine better.
No arbitrary mixing
If you are not sure about the compatibility between water types, it is best Completely discharge the system and replace it completely.
5. When to change the coolant?
Cooling water not only helps dissipate heat but also protects the engine from corrosion. If used for too long, the anti-corrosion agents will decline, causing problems such as:
- Engine overheating, reduce performance.
- There is dirt in the water tank, reducing the cooling capacity.
- Corrosion of components in the cooling system.
Please change the coolant according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. For oat cooling water, The replacement time can be up to 5-10 years or 150,000 – 250,000 km.
Let’s find out more useful information about cars with Madin Chem at the website www.adblue.com.vn Bye!
