What is Antifreeze and What is it Used For?

---

---

You may know what antifreeze is at a basic level, but if, like many West Bloomfield drivers, you’re not sure what it’s used for, we here at Mercedes-Benz of Bloomfield Hills are here to provide you answers. If you’re currently wondering why antifreeze is important and what function it services within your vehicle, we’re here to help you get some clarity. We also want to dispel any confusion surrounding the question “is antifreeze coolant?”. With all the above in mind, let’s delve into the following questions:

• What is antifreeze?
• What is antifreeze made of?
• What is antifreeze used for?
• Why is antifreeze important?

What is Antifreeze?

Southfield drivers often wonder “is antifreeze coolant?”. The answer is, technically, no. Oftentimes, people use the terms antifreeze and coolant synonymously, but the reality is that coolant is made up of a mixture of antifreeze and water. Accordingly, coolant does contain antifreeze, usually at a ratio of 50% antifreeze to 50% water. Some coolants, however, can contain as much as 70% antifreeze to 30% water. Regardless, both antifreeze and coolant help to regulate your engine’s temperature while you drive, serving a critical function.

What Is Antifreeze Made Of?

Antifreeze is usually made up of either ethylene glycol or propylene glycol. It’s most often pink, orange, or green, depending on its unique properties. While most vehicles take green antifreeze, it’s always wise to check your owner’s manual before putting antifreeze in yours to make sure you’re getting the right kind of antifreeze for your particular car, truck, or SUV.

What is Antifreeze Used for?

At the most basic level, antifreeze is used to help keep your vehicle’s engine at a stable temperature on Birmingham roads. How does this work? Antifreeze is stored within your Mercedes-Benz vehicle’s radiator, which is connected to the engine by a reservoir. The water pump circulates antifreeze throughout the engine, allowing it to move heat away from the engine. Then, this antifreeze cycles back into the radiator, which uses a fan to cool it, removing further heat. This cycle repeats over and over again as you drive.

Why is Antifreeze Important?

Antifreeze is vital to your vehicle, not only so it can cool your engine temperature, but also so it can keep your engine from freezing up in sub-zero temperatures. Running your engine without antifreeze, while impossible, will most certainly create damage to these critical engine components (and maybe more):

• Engine Cylinders
• Water Pump
• Connector Rods
• Head Gasket

Is your engine running too hot? Do you notice steam coming out from under the hood? There’s a good chance there may be an issue with your antifreeze, radiator, or cooling system. If that’s the case, we invite you to schedule service with our team of Mercedes-Benz service experts today!

Mercedes-Benz of Bloomfield Hills Has Your Service Needs Covered!

Still have questions about antifreeze? Contact our service department or give us a call at (248) 644-8400. We’re here to help however we can. We can also discuss your service options with you. If you find yourself stuck on the side of the road with a broken-down, overheated vehicle, we can even provide roadside assistance.