Prestone antifreeze coolant

Types of Prestone Antifreeze Coolant

Prestone antifreeze coolant is a crucial part of vehicle maintenance, particularly in extreme weather conditions. It has several types that differ in composites and features.

• Predominant Antifreeze Coolant

  Preston's dominant antifreeze is a blend of ethylene glycol and water. The ethylene glycol functions as a super coolant, lowering the water's surface tension. This allows the water to flow better and rapidly absorb the heat from the engine and its components. It also acts as a freezing point depressor, preventing the coolant from freezing in winter.

  Its features include a low silica formula, compatibility with various metals, and long-lasting performance. It also has a PH balance that prevents corrosion of the engine parts.

• Predominant Yellow Antifreeze Coolant

  Prestone's yellow antifreeze is a proprietary formula with organic acid technology. This technology uses acids to inhibit corrosion, making it suitable for vehicles with aluminum engine parts. In addition, the yellow antifreeze has a low-silica formula that is gentle on all metals present in the cooling system.

  Furthermore, it is pre-mixed with 50% water, making it ready for use. It also has a long service life of up to 200,000 miles in vehicles with standard cooling systems. The dominant yellow antifreeze is also compatible with other coolants.

• Predominant Green Antifreeze Coolant

  Prestone's green antifreeze is also a proprietary formula with a traditional inorganic acid technology (IAT) system. IAT technology uses a blend of ethylene glycol, corrosion inhibitors, and other additives to protect the cooling system's metal parts. The green coolant also has a higher concentration of calcium and magnesium, which act as a buffer and enhance the quality and performance of the coolant.

  The green antifreeze coolant is not compatible with modern vehicles with aluminum or magnesium parts. This is because the high concentrations can corrode them. It functions well in older vehicles with engines and cooling systems constructed with copper and brass.

• Extended Life Antifreeze Coolant

  Prestone's extended life antifreeze coolant is a hybrid formula. It combines the benefits of organic and inorganic acid technologies. The hybrid formula maximizes the corrosion inhibitors' efficiency, offering long-lasting protection for the cooling system.

  The extended life coolant also has a long service life of up to 5 years or 150,000 miles, reducing the need for frequent changes. Additionally, it is pre-mixed with 50% water, making it ready for use.

Specifications and Maintenance of Prestone Antifreeze Coolant

There is a range of prestone antifreeze coolants available for use in different types of vehicles. Each of them has its specifications to suit the needs of various customers and their vehicles. Here are some general specifications:

• Coolant Type

  Different vehicles use different types of coolants depending on their needs. For example, some vehicles may need a more advanced coolant with lots of additives and properties to protect the engine and enhance its performance. This is only possible with the Prestone coolant, which is engineered to protect and enhance the performance of the engine. It has a formulation that protects the engine from rust and wear.

• Water Pump Lubricant

  The water pump is a very important component of the vehicle. It is responsible for circulating the coolant throughout the engine to maintain and achieve optimal temperatures. Therefore, it is very important to lubricate it to make it efficient. Prestone antifreeze coolants contain properties that help reduce friction, making it a great choice for the water pump.

• pH Level

  Prestone antifreeze coolant has a neutral pH level of 7. This is important because it helps prevent corrosion of metal components in the cooling system.

• Color

  Prestone antifreeze coolants are available in a variety of colors. These colors are used to identify the type of coolant available. For example, there are anti-freeze coolants available in orange, green, yellow, and blue colors. Each of them represents a specific formulation or technology.

Regardless of the type of Prestone antifreeze coolant used, it is important to maintain it to achieve optimal performance and service. Here are some tips to help maintain the Prestone antifreeze coolants:

• Check the levels: It is important to check the coolant levels regularly and top them up when necessary. This helps maintain the efficiency of the coolant.
• Change the coolant: With time, the properties of the Prestone antifreeze coolant can break down due to wear or tear. When this happens, the performance of the coolant is compromised. This is why it is important to replace the coolant after a recommended period.
• Check for leaks: It is important to check for any leaks in the cooling system. This is because even the smallest leak can result in a drop in the coolant level, compromising its efficiency.
• Inspect the color: The color of the Prestone antifreeze coolant can tell a lot about its condition. For instance, if it is dark or contaminated, it may be time to change it.
• Inspect the components: It is important to inspect the cooling system components such as hoses, clamps, and the pump to ensure they are in good condition. This is because even the smallest damage can affect the performance of the coolant.

How to choose Prestone antifreeze coolants

When buying antifreeze for a vehicle, consider the following factors to ensure the best choice is made.

• Compatibility

  Prestone antifreeze is compatible with all car models and types. Nonetheless, consider the car model and the type of coolant it requires. Some coolants are not compatible with certain cars.

• Color

  Prestone has different colors depending on the type. However, the color alone cannot determine the type. Different brands have different types of coolants that have the same color.

• Type

  Choose the type of coolant that suits the needs. For instance, if the region has extreme cold or hot temperatures, then the coolant that is suitable for such conditions is ideal.

• Quality

  Prestone is a reputable brand that offers quality products. Nonetheless, there are other brands with good quality coolants. Make sure to buy from a reputable brand to get quality.

• Concentration

  Prestone coolants are available in full strength and ready to use. The full strength is more common and popular among many car owners. It is also more economical as it cannot freeze or boil easily.

• Certification

  Consider buying a coolant that has the approval of major car manufacturers. This is an assurance that the product is good and will not damage the car.

• Price

  Different brands and types of Prestone antifreeze are available at different prices. It is advisable to have a budget and do prior research to find a product that is affordable.

How to DIY and Replace Prestone Antifreeze Coolant

Prestone antifreeze coolant is available in various formulas, depending on vehicle type and needs. However, the general steps for using and replacing the product are as follows:

• 1. Before anything else, always read the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines. It is also advisable to go through the specific vehicle's user manual to see any model-specific instructions regarding the cooling system.
• 2. Make sure the car is parked on a level ground and the engine is completely cooled down before opening the coolant reservoir cap. This ensures even pressure release and reduces the risk of injury from the expels.
• 3. Inspect the existing coolant level and top it up if necessary. If the coolant level is low, it could indicate a leak or another issue. Do not drain or replace the coolant without first diagnosing and addressing any underlying problems.
• 4. If replacing the coolant, use the appropriate formula and type of Prestone antifreeze coolant for the specific vehicle. Antifreeze coolants come in different colors (green, yellow, and orange) depending on the formulation. The color difference is to help manufacturers and clients identify the product easily.
• 5. The old coolant may need to be drained out if the vehicle has a coolant flush. This is done by opening the drain valve located at the bottom of the radiator and letting the coolant out into a suitable container. In case there is no drain valve, an extra step of removing the lower radiator hose may be required.
• 6. Once the old coolant is drained, the next step is to flush the system with water to remove any remaining Prestone antifreeze coolant and debris. This is a crucial step, especially when changing to a different coolant type. After the flush, ensure all water is drained by opening the drain valve or removing the lower radiator hose.
• 7. Once the system is completely drained and flushed, it's time to refill it with the chosen Prestone antifreeze coolant. Remember to mix it with water in the recommended ratios (usually 50/50) to achieve the desired freeze and boil protection. This is important because the coolant may dilute over time.
• 8. Before refilling the coolant, it is advisable to check and replace (if necessary) other components of the cooling system, such as the thermostat and water pump. This ensures the system works efficiently, increasing the antifreeze's lifespan.
• 9. Once everything is set, and the vehicle is cool, refill the coolant reservoir to the recommended level. Remember to pour it slowly to avoid air bubbles and pockets. After filling, remember to securely close the reservoir cap.
• 10. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new coolant. This also ensures the system is leak-free. During this step, it's important to monitor the temperature gauge and ensure it stays within the normal range. Also, keep an eye on the system for any leaks or issues.
• 11. Finally, remember to dispose of the old coolant properly. Prestone antifreeze contains toxic components, mainly ethylene glycol, which is harmful to humans and the environment.

Q&A

Q1: Why should someone choose Prestone over other brands?

A1: Prestone has been in the antifreeze and coolant game for over 90 years. They have a good reputation and are trusted by many. Also, they do a lot of research to make sure their products meet the needs of different types of vehicles. Their products work with many car brands and models. Prestone products help to keep cars in a good condition.

Q2: What is the difference between antifreeze and coolant?

A2: Antifreeze and coolant are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference. Antifreeze is a concentrated liquid that is used to make the coolant. It contains ethylene glycol or propylene glycol, which lowers the freezing point of the liquid. Coolant is a mixture of antifreeze and water. It has the properties needed to protect and cool the engine.

Q3: Can someone use a different color Prestone antifreeze?

A3: Prestone offers different colors of antifreeze to meet different requirements. The color is not the only thing that matters. Always choose the one that is suitable for the vehicle.

Q4: How often should a vehicle use Prestone antifreeze?

A4: The frequency depends on the product being used. Always follow the instructions on the label. Also, factors such as the age of the vehicle and the weather conditions in the area affect how often someone should use Prestone antifreeze.