You essentially know the inner workings of your engine, but you like to take shortcuts when possible. Well, if one of those shortcuts involves pouring water into your radiator instead of its specified coolant – stop! This could be damaging your vehicle and lead to major radiator repairs down the road. Read on to find out why coolant is important and why water isn’t a proper substitute.

Why Do You Need Coolant?

Your engine needs oil to run correctly, but it also relies on coolant to help it perform. Coolant goes inside your radiator, mixes with the water inside it already, and works to keep your car operating at the correct temperature without overheating.

Without coolant inside your radiator, the heat naturally produced by your car’s engine would be way too hot and would break down the engine fast. Coolant works as your engine’s internal cooling system, and if you suspect it’s not working correctly, it’s time to issue a radiator repair.

Why Can’t You Just Use Water?

If you just poured water into your car’s radiator, the heat created by the engine would cause it to rapidly evaporate and your engine would break down. If you were driving your car in extremely cold temperatures, the water could also freeze inside your car if the vehicle sat unused for a long enough time – essentially rendering the heating and cooling system within the car useless. That’s why coolant is an essential part of your radiator’s activity.

Are you in need of car maintenance or radiator repair? Priam’s Automotive Service & Repair in Honolulu, HI, has you covered. With a knowledgeable team of mechanics and technicians able to help, and quality prices you can afford, your car will be back on the road in no time. For more information about their services, visit their website or call (808) 537-1919.