Engine coolant plays a major role in protecting the engine of your vehicle. It helps to regulate the temperature of the engine, enabling it to perform better. And also prevents it from overheating, which could result in damaging some other areas of your vehicle.
Are you currently experiencing issues with your car’s air conditioning? If yes, then you can link the problem to your coolant if you have confirmed your fan clutch is not faulty.
At this point, we know you might be wondering, “What does my engine coolant have to do with my AC?”
Well, we will answer your question. But first, let’s understand what an engine coolant is and why it’s important.
What Is An Engine Coolant?
Engine coolant is a combination of water, antifreeze, and other additives that help to regulate the temperature of your engine and improve its performance.
The antifreeze is usually mixed with water to prevent the water from boiling and freezing during hot or cold weather, which would otherwise cause the engine block to split.
In addition to regulating the engine temperature, coolant also helps to lubricate the engine’s working parts to prevent damage to the water pump, head gasket, piston timing, and cooling system.
How Does An Engine Coolant Work?
Your car engine, which is the source of power, produces intense heat and, without proper protection, can overheat and result in damage. So, this fluid absorbs excess heat from the engine and circulates it to keep the engine from overheating and making it perform at its best.
Most vehicles store the engine coolant in a reservoir near the radiator and the water pump circulates it through the engine.
The coolant flows through the outer casing, called the water jacket into the engine, to maintain the temperature and prevent the engine from overheating. After which it further flows through the hoses and then to the radiator, where it finally cools down.
This process helps to remove rust particles and dirt that can clog up the cooling system. This is why it’s important to drain out the coolant and refill the system with a fresh coolant when necessary.
Does A Low Coolant Affect AC Performance?
An Engine coolant is a component that can affect the performance of your air conditioning system–although not directly.
When your car does not have enough moisture as a result of overheating or a damaged engine, your AC system will not function well and may not be able to produce cold air. This means that the levels and condition of your coolant affect how your air conditioning functions.
Your car’s AC uses a refrigerant, which is also known as Freon, to keep the interior cool. And this is how it works–Your compressor puts a lot of load on the engine, causing it to generate so much heat. Freon helps to absorb the heat during evaporation and then circulates it whenever the air conditioner is switched on.
This coolant is totally different from an engine coolant and it affects the temperature, humidity, and airflow of the air conditioning system.
Therefore, when your engine coolant is low in the engine, it can generally affect your vehicle performance which includes the cooling system.
How Often Should An Engine Coolant Be Replaced?
You should typically cleanse and replace the coolant system at least every 50,000 miles. However, every 10,000 miles, certain newer models may need their coolant serviced.
The amount of time you change your coolant is dependent upon your car. This is why the manufacturer’s instructions should always be followed while maintaining and replacing your coolant or antifreeze, just like all other fluids an engine needs to function properly.
FAQs
Are Coolants the Same As Antifreeze?
These terms are usually used interchangeably. However, they are not the same. Coolants are antifreeze diluted with water. Whereas antifreeze is a concentrated, glycol-based liquid.
What Are The Signs Of Low Coolant?
When your engine coolant is low, there are a few signs to look out for. The most obvious is the temperature gauge on your dashboard. If it starts creeping into the red, that means your engine is overheating.
Other signs include steam coming from under the hood, or fluid leaking from under the car. If you notice either of these, pull over immediately and call a tow truck.
Read: Does a Cold Air Intake Make Car Louder
Conclusion
When your engine is overheating, it has a high tendency to affect the performance of your vehicle, including the air conditioning system. This is because it is the powerhouse of your vehicle.
Note, it is important to check your engine coolant levels regularly and always replace them when you need to. Also, you should never open your coolant cap while it is still hot. This is because it could spill over as a result of the pressure in it and this can be dangerous.