Coolant and Antifreeze

Coolant and Antifreeze service offered at Hi-Tech Auto Specialists in IL

The Two Essential Drinks for Your Engine's Health

The terms coolant and antifreeze are some of the most used in the vehicle glossary. Of the many fluids that run through your vehicle's various systems, these two are particularly important for maintaining engine health and preventing damage.


Coolant or radiator fluid keeps the engine from overheating by transferring heat away from it. Antifreeze does the opposite. It prevents the engine from freezing in cold temperatures by lowering the freezing point of water.


These two fluids work hand in hand to maintain optimal engine temperatures in different seasons. But what if their levels deplete? Hi-Tech Auto Specialists is the go-to solution for vehicle owners to maintain the right levels of coolant and antifreeze.

What Is the Difference Between Coolant and Antifreeze?

Coolant and antifreeze are often used interchangeably, but they differ. Antifreeze is a concentrated liquid, usually made of ethylene glycol or propylene glycol, that prevents your car's radiator fluid from freezing in cold temperatures.


When mixed with water in the correct ratio, it becomes coolant, also called engine coolant or automotive coolant. Basically, antifreeze is the main component of coolant.


Your vehicle needs coolant and antifreeze to maintain a stable temperature regardless of weather conditions. At Hi-Tech Auto Specialists, our technicians check the levels and condition of your vehicle's coolant and antifreeze during regular maintenance services to keep you safe from unexpected engine damage.


What Happens When Coolant and Antifreeze Levels Are Low?

When the coolant and antifreeze levels are low, your vehicle is at risk of damage. Here's what can happen.


  • Engine Overheating:  Engine overheating can result in warped parts and a blown head gasket. In worst-case scenarios, it may cause engine failure.
  • Corrosion: Insufficient car radiator coolant and antifreeze additive levels can result in rust and corrosion. These contaminants can cause blockages and increase the risk of leaks.
  • Low Fuel Efficiency: When the vehicle's engine operates at a higher-than-optimal temperature, it works harder and uses more fuel. So, you may have to spend more at the gas station to cover the same distance.


Hi-Tech Auto Specialists provides coolant refill services to prevent any of these issues from occurring. We use a high-quality antifreeze solution compatible with your vehicle's make and model. Our technicians also check for leaks during the refill process and flag issues early on.


Common Causes of Low Automotive Coolant Levels

The following factors can cause low coolant levels:


  • Leaks: The primary reason for low vehicle coolant level is a leak. Besides the radiator, the leak may be in the water pump or the hoses. As a result, the radiator fluid escapes, reducing the coolant levels.
  • Faulty Radiator Cap: The antifreeze coolant may spill out if the radiator cap is loose or damaged. In most cases, you won't notice this until the coolant levels have dropped significantly.
  • Damaged Radiator: The radiator itself may corrode or crack, too. If the engine antifreeze is leaking from the radiator, it will directly affect the coolant temperature and the overall performance of your engine.
  • Engine Block: Certain components in the engine, such as the cylinder head and the engine block, have gaskets that can deteriorate over time. Since the engine antifreeze passes through these parts, any damage to them can cause the coolant to leak into the engine.


Whatever the cause, the technicians at Hi-Tech Auto Specialists can identify and fix it. The coolant and antifreeze can also deplete due to evaporation and age, so regular coolant refills at our Oak Lawn & Westchester, IL locations are necessary to maintain optimal levels.


How Often Does Your Vehicle Need a Coolant Flush?

A coolant flush is a process where the old coolant and any contaminants are drained from your vehicle's cooling system, and new car antifreeze is added. You should bring your vehicle to Hi-Tech Auto Specialists every 30,000 miles or two to three years for a radiator coolant change.


Quench the Thirst of Your Engine! Let Hi-Tech Auto Specialists Maintain Your Vehicle's Coolant System

If the coolant and antifreeze of your vehicle are insufficient or dirty, the engine won't perform optimally. The longer you ignore the issue, the more damage it will cause.


Bring your vehicle to Hi-Tech Auto Specialists for regular coolant and antifreeze services. We also provide other coolant system maintenance and repairs, like radiator replacements or water pump repairs. Our technicians have been taking care of vehicles like yours since 1986. Visit us in Oak Lawn & Westchester, IL to see our expertise in action, or give us a call at 708-423-4555 or 708-865-0855 to get expert advice about your vehicle troubles.