With the temperatures dropping, it’s time to check your engine coolant.

Engine coolant also known as antifreeze, is just as important as oil. Engine coolant benefits your car in the following ways:

• Engine coolant prevents your engine from overheating.
• Engine coolant has chemicals that prevent the liquid from overheating and turning to ice.
• Engine coolant protects your car’s radiator from corrosion.

You should regularly check the coolant levels of your car. It’s often a good idea to get them checked during an oil change. Every two to three years you should replace all the coolant in your car or truck if you’re using standard engine coolant.

If you visit your local auto parts store, you will see all types and brands of engine coolant for your car or truck. So which one do you choose?

Standard Engine Coolant

Most standard engine coolants use a 50/50 blend of water and ethylene glycol. This chemical helps protect against rust and corrosion. This antifreeze is typically a green color. It helps keep your engine cool at temperatures 34 degrees below zero and 265 degrees. It usually needs to be changed every two to three years.

Premium Engine Coolant

This engine coolant is usually an orange color. Premium engine coolant typically has a longer service life than standard engine coolant. Premium antifreeze can typically last up to five years or up to 100,000 miles.

Which One Do You Choose?

The standard engine coolant is just as effective as the premium engine coolant. The question is: Do you want to change your engine coolant every two to three years or every five years?

Before deciding on which coolant is best for your vehicle, read your owners manual and consult with an auto mechanic.

You can always talk to your mechanic about coolants during your next Santa Fe oil change or Tucson transmission flush.