Engine coolants are crucial to the performance and longevity of your vehicle’s engine, especially with the extreme lows and large swings in temperature we see here in Alaska. Why? Because coolant is the juice that keeps your engine cool despite the friction of all its moving parts.

Read on to learn more about how they work, why they are essential, and how to choose the right fluids to keep your engine running smoothly throughout the year.

What Do Engine Coolants Do?

Engine coolants, which, funny enough, is also referred to as antifreeze, are specially formulated liquids that help regulate the temperature of your vehicle’s engine. They are typically made from a mixture of water and glycol (ethylene glycol or propylene glycol) and various additives. 

Coolants serve a variety of purposes, including: 

• Heat Transfer: Coolants absorb heat from the engine and dissipate it through the radiator, preventing overheating.
• Freezing Protection: In cold temperatures, coolants help prevent the liquid in the engine from freezing.
• Corrosion Prevention: Additives in coolants help protect the engine’s metal components from rust and corrosion.
• Lubrication: Coolant also lubricates the parts it comes into contact with, including the water pump, head gasket, cylinder, and piston.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Coolant

Choosing the right coolant for a vehicle is critical, especially in Alaska, where temperatures can range from extreme cold in the winter to relatively warm in the summer. Use of the wrong coolant can lead to inefficient heat transfer, freezing, or even engine damage.

Types of Engine Coolants

Not all coolants are made the same. Each type of coolant is formulated differently and is designed to work with specific types of engines. It is crucial to ensure you’re using the right coolant for your engine, and that you don’t mix coolants. Mixing different types of coolant can cause chemical reactions that can damage your engine.

Inorganic Acid Technology (IAT): This traditional green coolant is made with silicate and phosphate additives, providing corrosion protection. It is typically recommended for older vehicles but requires more frequent changes (every 2-3 years).

Organic Acid Technology (OAT): Often orange or red, OAT coolants are designed for newer vehicles and have a longer lifespan (up to 5 years or 150,000 miles). They do not contain silicates or phosphates, making them less likely to cause buildup.

Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT): Combining the benefits of IAT and OAT, HOAT coolants offer long-lasting protection (up to 5 years or 150,000 miles) and are suitable for a wide range of vehicles. They typically appear yellow or orange.

Extended Life Coolant (ELC): ELC coolants are specifically designed for heavy-duty and high-performance engines.

Coolant Selection for Alaska’s Climate

Given Alaska’s extreme temperature variations, it’s essential to choose a coolant that offers reliable performance year-round. Here are some key considerations:

1. Freezing Point: Select a coolant with a low freezing point to ensure your engine doesn’t freeze during Alaska’s harsh winters. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water typically provides protection down to -34°F (-37°C), while a 70/30 mix can offer protection at even lower temperatures.
2. Boiling Point: A high boiling point ensures that the coolant remains effective during the warmer months. Again, a 50/50 mix generally offers protection up to 265°F (129°C).
3. Corrosion Inhibitors: Rust and corrosion in your engine can be accelerated by Alaska’s cold and wet conditions. Ensure your coolant contains corrosion inhibitors to protect the metal components of your engine.
4. Compatibility: Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations and ensure the coolant you choose is compatible with your engine and other components.

Note: when we use the word “mix,” we are referring to the ratio of a pre-mixed coolant that you purchase. Use your pre-mixed coolant as-is. We do not advise adding water to your coolant, as this can inhibit performance and cause corrosion, rust, or freeze in the winter.

Maintenance Tips for Optimal Coolant Performance

To ensure your engine stays in top shape all year round, here are some basic vehicle maintenance tips for maintaining your coolant.

1. Regular Checks: Regularly check your coolant levels and top off as needed. Low coolant levels can lead to overheating and engine damage.
2. Routine Flushing: Follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations for coolant flushing and replacement. Over time, coolant can become contaminated and lose its effectiveness.
3. Inspect for Leaks: Regularly inspect your cooling system for leaks to avoid coolant loss and potential engine damage.
4. Use Distilled Water: If you’re in a pinch and need to mix your coolant with water, always use distilled water to avoid mineral buildup and scaling in the cooling system.

Coolant System Maintenance in Fairbanks, Alaska

There are a lot of factors to consider when maintaining your vehicle in the Alaskan climate—and choosing and maintaining your coolant is only part of the picture. That’s why Metropolitan Garage is here for you. Our mechanics are not only educated, experienced automotive experts, but we drive and take care of our cars in Alaska, too! We’ll never recommend repairs we wouldn’t make to our own vehicles.

Need a coolant flush or fix? Schedule your appointment today and ensure your engine is ready to roll every day. https://metropolitangarage.com/