NAPA Know How: What is an ABS Sensor?

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The anti-lock braking system uses an ABS sensor or wheel sensor to monitor the wheel speed and send this information to the ABS computer. The ABS computer uses this information to prevent the brakes from locking during an emergency stop. If wheel speeds are not equal, the computer modulates the anti-lock feature until the speeds are equalized.

Where are these sensors located?

The ABS sensor is typically located in each wheel hub/rotor on a four channel ABS system. Some rear wheel drive applications have the sensor mounted in the rear differential.

Will a malfunctioning ABS sensor illuminate the check engine light or affect vehicle operation?

Yes, a failing sensor can illuminate the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) or ABS warning lamp, and may cause failure of the anti-lock braking system to operate safely and properly.

What are the common causes of failure?

Typically these sensors will fail as a result of clogging from metallic debris, brake dust or dirt due to exposure to the harsh elements.

How to determine if these sensors are malfunctioning?

An ABS sensor can be visually inspected and the wire winding and sensor harness can be tested for opens, shorts and proper factory specified resistance with an ohmmeter.

Check out this video showing a typical ABS speed sensor replacement.

Check out all the brake system parts available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on what is an ABS sensor, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

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NAPA Know How: NAPA’s Free Vehicle Health Check Is October 12th, 2019

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Whether you’re a DIY car guy or the person who always ignores their warning light — it’s time for a vehicle health check. On October 12th, bring your vehicle to your local participating NAPA AUTO PARTS store and NAPA AutoCare technicians will inspect it free of charge. So no matter who you are, or what you drive, we’ve got your back.

For more information about participating locations and timing please check our map and with your local store: https://www.napaonline.com/en/offers/vehicle-health-check

Not sure if you need a vehicle health check? Here’s some points to ponder:

Fuel System Treatment

Adding a Fuel System Treatment to your car with every oil change will help remove excess buildup and deposits from fuel injectors, carburetors, and intake valves which may improve fuel mileage, enhance performance, and reduce emissions.

Cabin Air Filter

Cabin air filters block airborne contaminants, pollen, dust, toxins, allergens and the like that can cause smelly build-up caused by mold, mildew, algae and more. Cabin air filters should be inspected every 12 months or 12,000 miles.

Tire Air Pressure

Proper tire inflation can affect the control you have of the vehicle, fuel economy, wear of the tires, tire failure rate, and the comfort of your ride. Regularly check tire pressures to the tire PSI recommendations, particularly with temperature change.

Headlights

While only 25% of driving happens at night, nearly 50% of all accidents occur after dark. Also, as your headlights age they produce less light for a shorter view of the road! Upgrade your headlights in pairs with premium bulbs for whiter, brighter and safer visibility!

Air Filter

The role of an engine air filter is to filter the air and prevent harmful things like leaves, insects and contaminants from entering your engine. Engine air filters should be inspected every 12 months or 12,000 miles.

Wiper Blades

You should replace your wiper blades every 6 to 9 months to maintain the safest visibility in adverse weather conditions. Also remember you might have a rear blade if you have a SUV or CUV. Washer fluid is also important to a clean and clear view.

Brake Inspection

Rubber components within your vehicle’s calipers and brake hoses can deteriorate, over time, causing uneven or premature brake pad and rotor wear. Have your calipers and brake hoses checked during every brake job.

Battery

The summer intense heat and winter severe cold can adversely affect the life expectancy of your battery. Be sure to have your battery tested every time you have your vehicle serviced to ensure you have the power when you need it.

Ride Control

Shocks and struts can affect your vehicle’s stopping distance. Properly functioning shocks and struts are necessary for a safe and comfortable ride. Consider replacing shocks and struts every 75,000 miles.

Cooling System

A vehicle’s engine cooling system is comprised of a number of parts that work together to circulate engine coolant throughout the system. The radiator, thermostat, water pump and cooling hoses should be periodically inspected as they all play critical roles in ensuring proper engine heat management is attained under any driving condition.

Check out all the maintenance parts available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on a vehicle health check, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

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NAPA Know How: What Do They Really Do?NAPA Know How Blog

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Bug splatter is a significant deal, especially if you drive in the early evening and in conditions that are hot and muggy. Within minutes, your grille, hood, and windshield may be covered with hundreds of dead insects, potentially impairing visibility and ruining your paint. Bug shields are the solution to this conundrum and a low-cost remedy you can install yourself.

Your Vehicle, the Bug Magnet

Insects rove throughout the day and include the usual flies, stinging insects such as bees, and butterflies. You may find yourself driving straight into a swarm of bugs, or they may find your car’s reflectors or daytime running lights an allurement.

When your headlights and taillights are on, especially at night, your vehicle’s bug magnetism becomes heightened. If the insect mix at twilight seems different (and larger), you’re correct. Moths, which we know are easily attracted to a flame, are also drawn to your headlights in the same way. Instead of burning up in a propane light, moths and other insects will crush themselves on the surface of your fast-moving car.

In some areas of the country, in particular Texas, insects high in acidity known as “love bugs” take flight in late spring and again as summer gives way to fall in search of a soul mate. Once they make contact with your paint, the damage begins. And unless you take immediate action, you may find the remedy involves costly detailing.

How to Prevent Bug Splatter

Fortunately, your vehicle need not become a bug magnet. Or at least not something bugs can adhere to. The solution is a simple and low-cost one, where you’ll install a bug shield on your vehicle.

Bug shields, also known as air deflectors, span your hood’s leading-edge, running from side to side. They’re customized for your make/model vehicle to ensure a precise fit. You can understand how a shield works the moment you begin driving as it pushes the airstream upward at the front section of your vehicle. In this case, bugs sail over the roof instead of landing on your hood or windshield.

Deflectors have changed over the years for improved effectiveness. Early bug shields were simply tall, upright pieces of plexiglass attached to the front of the vehicle. Sometimes they worked quite well, but not always. What researchers found is that deflector height isn’t nearly as important as the fit. Because vehicle designs vary so much, the only way to ensure that a shield works is to design it specifically for a particular make/model. Thus, the custom design means that the deflector not only is optimally designed and fitted but looks great too. Importantly, they’re easy to install with no drilling required.

Not every insect will deflect as some will smash right into the shield. That’s acceptable as bug shields can handle any mess. You’ll simply clean the shield as you would the rest of your vehicle.

Bugs, begone!

Bug shields serving in their joint role as air deflectors can also keep tiny pebbles and some road debris from hitting your windshield. You’ll still want to keep your distance from a salt-spreader, but at least what does hit your vehicle stands a chance of getting deflected.

Check out all the paint & body products available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on bug shields, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

Photo courtesy of Pexels.

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NAPA Know How: Hot Savings From NAPA – 20% Off Sitewide

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Whether you can do it yourself or need it done for you, our NAPA social channels are for you. Follow us to get the latest KNOW HOW tips, see exclusive content from our NAPA Racing teams, check out the latest deals, and join the conversation with thousands of vehicle enthusiasts just like you.

From September 19th to 28th you can save 20% off online orders with coupon code: SOCIAL20.

START WITH THESE TOP SELLING CATEGORIES

Store participation and discount may vary. Exclusions apply. Offer valid 9/19-9/28. May not be combined with other offers. For Reserve Online, please call store to verify before pickup; additional actions and shipping charges may be required. We may cancel, modify, or deactivate this offer at any time and it is subject to change. We reserve the right to limit quantities and correct errors without notice. Reserve online orders need to be picked up at a participating NAPA AUTO PARTS prior to close of business on 9/28 to receive discount.

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NAPA Know How: Where To Teach Your Child To DriveNAPA Know How Blog

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You started out watching the calendar — now, you’re watching the clock. Time has flown and it’s suddenly your child’s turn to get behind the wheel. You’ve got one question: Where to teach your child to drive?

The Safest Option

An empty parking lot is the absolute best, safest place to begin. You want a place with no other moving or parked vehicles, with no pedestrians, with no unpredictable hazards. It’s flat, it’s open and you can see it all from any point. It’s perfect. Best of all, there are likely plenty of them a short distance from you — a large school parking lot on the weekend, an office park on the weekend, a big mall before it opens (or — as is the case in so many places, where some or all of the stores have closed for good). A parking lot is also a good place to teach young drivers about the safety features on the car like a back-up camera or parking sensors.

The Basics

That empty parking lot is a great place to get the basics of driving, stopping and turning down solid. There may even be crosswalks in the parking lot where you can practice coming to a stop before the lines and allowing pedestrians to cross. Once you’ve done that, you’re ready for the next step in where to teach your child to drive — some real-world training.

The best move at this point is a place you both know, where your child doesn’t have to process unfamiliar surroundings. The street where you live is probably a very good choice. Your child will know which house has a pet or child that might dart out into the street, where the curves and crosswalks are — which corner has the tree that blocks the view of the stop sign until the last minute — and you can reinforce that as part of the training. And that training should probably spread out over a few days before you move up the ladder of difficulty to busy secondary and primary surface streets, open highway and urban freeway driving.

Consider a Course

It’s important to take your time and do this right. The National Safety Council says half of all teen drivers will be involved in a car crash before graduating from high school. If you’re not sure you’re the best person to teach your child, there’s no shame in that. In fact, there are some excellent teen driver courses that you and your child could take part in. Check online to find the one closest to you and most appropriate for your family’s lifestyle. And if the car your child is learning in and will be driving needs maintenance or some safety equipment added, now’s the perfect time.

Check out all the safety parts available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on where to teach a young driver how to drive, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

Photos courtesy of Mike Hagerty and Wikimedia Commons.

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NAPA Know How: 4 Symptoms Of A Bad RadiatorNAPA Know How Blog

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The symptoms of a bad radiator aren’t always obvious. Although the radiator is the largest, and most visible component in your vehicle’s cooling system, it is but one of several areas under your hood where coolant can get out of control and start to cause problems.

Suspicious that your radiator might be the culprit in your latest round of cooling woes? Check out these four tips that can help you spot a radiator that is on its way out.

1. Visible Coolant On the Radiator Itself

Your radiator should be bone dry at all times — as in, the coolant is completely encapsulated by the unit, with no leakage or spilling. Visible coolant is one of the symptoms of a bad radiator in almost every case. If you see coolant visible on the fins, that indicates that they have been perforated and that antifreeze is starting to ooze out. If you see it running down the sides, that could indicate a leak at the seams, or where the plastic cap meets the metal cooling body.

Leaks that are near the hoses, however, could be a sign that the connection isn’t tight enough, or that the hose has worn through. If you see coolant around the filler, then that may also be showing a cap that can no longer hold tight when the radiator is pressurized.

2. Bent or Mashed Fins

Your radiator’s fins are what allows for the heat exchange that cools down your engine’s antifreeze as it moves through it. If they become bent, or mashed together, then they can start to lose the efficiency necessary to completely cool your motor. If you discover a lot of damaged fins, it could be time for a new radiator.

3. Corrosion

Steel radiators are exposed to the same elements that can cause other parts of your vehicle to rust. A rusty radiator is vulnerable to perforation, poor sealing with its hoses, and general weakness while it is pressurized. If your radiator looks rusty, it’s worth having it inspected by a mechanic you trust before it fails.

4. Overheating

It might seem obvious, but one of the major symptoms of a bad radiator is your engine overheating. Although the heat gauge rising in your vehicle can have many causes, it’s not a bad idea to look to the radiator first and verify that none of the above issues are present, and that it is in good condition. Then you can move on to more difficult-to-diagnose issues like hoses, pinprick pressure leaks, connectors, water pumps and heater cores.

Check out all the heating and cooling products available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on the symptoms of a bad radiator, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

Photo courtesy of Creative Commons.

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NAPA Know How: Metric vs. Standard Bolts. Do You Know The Difference?NAPA Know How Blog

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If you’re tooling around with a wrench set in the U.S., you’ve probably cross-threaded a bolt or two, thinking it was a standard when actually you had a metric in your hand. It happens. With the metric system being adopted (almost) everywhere else in the world and the U.S. stubbornly holding on, it’s always a good idea to measure twice and thread once. Have you ever misidentified a nut or bolt? When it comes to metric vs. standard bolts do you know the difference?

1. The Metric System is useful because it is an internationally standardized system of measurement which relies on easily convertible units. There are only three countries that haven’t officially adopted the Metric System. One is the US of A. The other two are:
a) Canada and England
b) Burma and Liberia
c) China and Russia

2. According to Merriam-Webster, a base unit is “one of a set of fundamental units in a system of measurement that is based on a natural phenomenon or established standard and from which other units may be derived.” Examples of “base units” in the metric system are:
a) Second, ampere, candela
b) Foot, inch, ounce
c) Pounds, stones, blips

3. America did not invent its own system of measurement. Originally the U.S. Standard System is derived from the:
a) British Imperial System
b) Japanese Shakkanhō
c) French Carolingian

4. There are many ways to measure a fastener accurately so you can be sure you’ve got the bolt you need. The “10.9” stamped on to the head of this bolt denotes what?
a) Major nominal diameter
b) Thread pitch
c) Tensile strength

5. The Metric System was designed to reflect the natural world and be as accessible as possible. It is based on units of:
a) 1.5
b) 10
c) 100

6. Both the Metric and Standard Systems are called by different titles. SAE, Imperial, and Customary are all other names for:
a) The Metric System
b) The Standard System
c) Neither

7. The Metric System was originally developed in:
a) France
b) India
c) China

8. A bolt that measures M10 x 45mm 1.5 pitch will move in or out _______ with one complete turn of the head.
a) 10 mm
b) 45 mm
c) 1.5 mm

9. SAE is an acronym that stands for:
a) Society of Automotive Engineers
b) Standard Automotive Engravings
c) System of Amplitude Endorsement

10. The words “course” and “fine” may describe the threads of which kind of hardware?
a) Imperial
b) International System
c) Metric

Check out all the tools & equipment available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on metric vs. standard bolts, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

Answers: 1.b, 2.a, 3.a, 4.c, 5.b, 6.b, 7.a, 8.c, 9.b, 10.a

Photos courtesy of Blair Lampe.

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NAPA Know How: 10 Overlooked Services That Can Extend The Life Of Your VehicleNAPA Know How Blog

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Servicing your vehicle is usually the last thing on your mind. The daily grind of life tends to take all of your focus, so unless it is actively causing an issue, your vehicle’s maintenance schedule is out of sight, out of mind. The problem is that ignoring that schedule will eventually cause a failure, costing you more time and money that necessary. As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

While oil changes and tire service are the most common maintenance items, we have compiled a list of the top 10 most overlooked services that you should keep in mind the next time you change the oil.

Power Steering Service

This is one of those overlooked services that rarely comes up in a situation before it is too late. Over time, the fluid in your power steering system picks up dirty and moisture, clogging the steering components, eventually causing a failure. Adding a power steering fluid additive will help maintain your system’s function, as will a periodic flushing of the system.

Wheel Alignment

How your wheels are aligned not only effects how the car handles, but also the life of your tires and suspension components. The alignment can fall out of adjustment from several factors, including component wear and potholes. Hitting a curb is a sure-fire way to jar the alignment as well. When the alignment is out, the car may pull to one side or the other, steer erratically, and may even dart across the lanes with just a small move of the wheel, making driving the car a perilous adventure. Not only have that, but even a slight mis-alignment leads to uneven and premature tire worn.  An annual wheel alignment ensures that your wheels are pointed the right way.

Differential Service

The differential is the component that transfers input from the transmission to the wheels. Some front wheel drive vehicles incorporate this into the transmission, but some have separate units, and all rear wheel drive vehicles have a rear differential. The rear axles an differential are housed in the rear end housing. Over time, the gear oil breaks down, reducing its viscosity and ability to properly lubricate the differential and wheel bearings. Additionally, the transfer case (for vehicles equipped with one) should be serviced at the same time as the differential. Most manufacturers have a set maintenance schedule for the differential and transfer case fluids.

Cabin Air Filter

When you turn on the AC does your car smell like a junior high gym locker? Can you still smell that dead skunk you drove by last week? Does the air coming out of your vents barely move? Well then maybe you need to check the cabin air filter. You may not even realize there is such a thing, but it helps filter out the bad smells, dirt and other debris from entering the interior of the car as your drive. One side of the filter is directly exposed to the outside environment, meaning they get wet. This moisture builds up, leading to mildew and mold spores that stink up the interior of the car. These are easily changed by the owner in most vehicles; you just need to look up the location in your vehicle’s manual and use a new filter from your local NAPA AutoParts store. Maybe your car won’t smell like roadkill anymore.

Timing Belt Replacement

Not all vehicles have timing belts. DO NOT confuse this with the accessory drive belt, which drives all of the engine accessories such as the AC compressor, alternator and water pump. The timing belt connects the crankshaft to the camshaft(s). Some engines have external belts, while others use internal belts. Regardless of how they are accessed, these are incredibly important to the function of the engine. If the engine is what is known as an “interference” engine, a slipping or broken timing belt can not only keep the engine from running, but can destroy the internals of the engine itself as the valves and piston can collide. Each manufacturer has specific maintenance schedules for the timing belt, make sure you check your owner’s manual. If your odometer is showing 50-60,000 miles, you need to get your timing belt checked. This is one of the overlooked services that can really hit your wallet hard if you ignore it.

Transmission Service

Leaving your transmission fluid unchecked for 100,000 miles it usually a recipe for disaster, so don’t let it go that long. Follow your manufacturer’s guidelines on transmission filter and fluid change, and be sure to check the fluid level at every oil change. Burnt or dark-colored fluid is a sign of an overheated transmission and continued use without servicing could lead to internal damage.

Air Conditioning Service

When the AC system goes down, it is usually during blistering heat or brutal cold. These situations can often be avoided with a few basic tips. The AC compressor contains oils that lubricate the seals and moving parts. Because the AC only sees action in the summer months, these oils tend to drain away from the places they are needed the most. Switching the AC on for 15 or so minutes once a month will keep those oils circulated, so that the seals and moving parts stay functional. Additionally, an annual service replenishes those oils and checks the system for leaks and ensures the proper levels of refrigerant.

Brake Service

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that means it can absorb water out of the air. Even though the hydraulic system is sealed, the reservoir is not, meaning it can pull water straight out of the air and into the system. Over time, this corrodes the internal workings of the hydraulic system of your brakes. You can use a simple dip-strip (available at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS Store) to test your brake fluid. If it is a dirty dark brown color, it is old and should be flushed and replaced with new fluid.

Coolant System

Unless you drive a Corvair or VW Beetle, chances are your engine is water cooled. Because you are dealing with water, heat and several different types of metal, there are all kinds of potential maladies that can occur inside the cooling system. Contrary to popular belief, aluminum does in fact corrode, particularly when water and electricity are in close proximity, this is known as electrolysis. The cooling system is full of electrolysis, rust and degrading coolant which can lead to broken parts, cracked blocks and overheated engines. Check your coolant for the proper level of anti-freeze each winter, and flush the system with fresh fluid every 2 years.

Fuel System Cleaning

Carbon, sludge and dirt. These nasty bits of junk flow through your fuel system every single second the engine is running. As the build-up grows, the level of fuel that can pass is reduced, meaning the engine loses power, the fuel economy suffers and the drivability of the car is diminished. Restore the performance and economy of your engine with a fuel system cleaning. This can be performed in most cases with a twice-yearly fuel additive to the gas tank. Be sure to use quality gasoline to avoid dirty fuel.Cleaning your fuel system is as easy as adding some Royal Purple MaxClean to a tank of gas.

Addressing these overlooked services will only take a few hours combined, but they will add thousands of miles of life to your vehicle. A recent survey showed that 90% of all vehicles on the road have at least one basic maintenance item that has not been performed. Don’t let your car be the one on the side of the road when those issues come to fruition, visit your local NAPA AutoCare specialist and create a service schedule today.

Check out all the maintenance parts available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on overlooked services for your vehicle, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

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NAPA Know How: Hot Summer Savings From NAPA – 20% Off Sitewide

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Looking for a getaway weekend? Make sure your car is ready before you hit the road. Save 20% on NAPAOnline.com.

From July 14th to 21st you can save 20% off online orders with coupon code SAVE20.

Online orders only. Exclusions apply. Store participation may vary. Offer ends 7/21/19.

START WITH THESE TOP SELLING CATEGORIES

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NAPA Know How: What Is HOAT Coolant? 4 Things You Need To KnowNAPA Know How Blog

 

Engines are complex machines with rapidly moving metal parts and small clearances. And as such, they generate a lot of heat. You already know that coolant is an integral part of keeping your engine from exploding, and you probably also know that you have multiple coolant options that aren’t interchangeable. But how do you know which is OK to use? Color is not a reliable indicator in choosing between OAT, IAT and HOAT, so you better choose wisely … and what is HOAT coolant anyway? Let’s dig in.

1. The Story on HOAT

Inorganic Acid Technology (IAT) Coolant was pretty much the original type of coolant and is still used in older vehicles. It lasts around 30,000 miles before it turns too acidic and needs to be changed. Organic Acid Technology (OAT) Coolant uses additives to increase its lifespan significantly — up to around 150,000 miles. Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) Coolant is a hybrid of the two.

2. How HOAT Came to Life

You want your coolant to do a few things. Most importantly, it cools the engine, but remember it’s also passing through metal passageways and subject to vastly different operating temperatures, so it needs to deal with all of that. The original IAT is strongly anti-corrosive, but it needs to be changed regularly. OAT lasts much longer, but it doesn’t defend against corrosion as well. Ironically, simply mixing the two can have damaging corrosive effects, but the hybrid-engineered HOAT uses a chemical composition that keeps rust and buildup at bay, is effective at very low and high temperatures alike, and lasts five years and beyond.

3. Careful, HOAT Doesn’t Play Nice

Nope! On the surface, it seems like a hybrid between IAT and OAT would be compatible with either, but that’s not the case. They may share similar names, but the chemical recipe is different enough that manufacturers do not recommend mixing them. Doing so potentially limits your coolant’s effectiveness in doing its job and can greatly reduce the lifespan. And as mentioned earlier, it might actually gunk up the system. This is true even if you’ve drained the coolant from an engine — it’s not so easy as to just add a different type because traces of the old type remain and cling to passageways.

4. When to Use HOAT

As with most other questions about your car, check your owner’s manual. It should specify the coolant type. You may think the benefits of IAT, OAT or HOAT are what your vehicle needs, but it’s not a call you can easily make without cleaning out the entire cooling system (more than just a flush). So it’s really best to just stick with what was designed to support your engine and you will be fine.

Always wait for an engine to cool down before opening a radiator or coolant reservoir cap, as the system is under pressure and the coolant is scalding hot. And remember, contrary to popular belief, color should not be the determining factor for adding or mixing coolant because it is not standardized or indicative of chemical makeup. Always check with the manufacturer to make sure you’re adding what your engine needs.