Coolant

Coolant: Keeping Your Engine at the Perfect Temperature


While many drivers check their fuel and oil levels regularly, coolant often gets overlooked. Yet it’s one of the most vital fluids in your vehicle protecting your engine from both freezing in winter and overheating in summer. At Auto Discount Harrogate, we stock high-quality coolants and antifreeze products to keep your engine safe all year round.


1. What Exactly is Coolant?

Coolant (also known as antifreeze when concentrated) is a mix of:

  • Water – For heat transfer.
  • Ethylene or Propylene Glycol – Prevents freezing and raises boiling point.
  • Corrosion Inhibitors – Protect internal engine parts from rust and scale.

This mixture circulates through your engine and radiator, absorbing heat and preventing damage.


2. Why Coolant is Essential

Without the right coolant:

  • Overheating can warp engine components and cause head gasket failure.
  • Freezing can crack the engine block or radiator.
  • Corrosion can block water passages and reduce cooling efficiency.

3. Types of Coolant

At Auto Discount Harrogate, we supply:

  • OAT (Organic Acid Technology) – Long-life protection, ideal for modern vehicles.
  • IAT (Inorganic Additive Technology) – Common in older cars, requires more frequent changes.
  • HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) – A blend of both, for certain European and Asian models.
  • Ready-Mix or Concentrate – Choose pre-mixed for convenience or concentrate to mix yourself.

4. When to Change Coolant

  • Most vehicles require a coolant change every 2–5 years, depending on the type.
  • Signs you may need a change:
    • Murky or rusty coolant in the reservoir.
    • Overheating or fluctuating temperature gauge.
    • A sweet smell from the engine bay (possible leak).

5. Seasonal Checks

  • Winter – Ensure the mixture has the correct antifreeze strength to prevent freezing.
  • Summer – Check levels before long drives to avoid overheating.

We offer free in-store checks to make sure your coolant is up to the task.


6. Our Expert Service

We don’t just sell bottles off the shelf—we:

  • Match the exact coolant specification for your make and model.
  • Provide mixing ratio advice for maximum protection.
  • Supply funnels, testers, and accessories for DIY topping-up.
  • Offer fitting and full coolant flush services for complete peace of mind.

Final Word:
Coolant is your engine’s unsung hero, quietly preventing some of the most expensive repair bills. Drop by Auto Discount Harrogate for top-quality coolant, expert advice, and everything you need to keep your engine running at the perfect temperature whatever the season.