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Whatэs going on with my antifreeze coolant in my car?

I'm a moron and put washer fluid in my car instead of coolant/antifreeze, is it going to really mess my car up

  • Yeah I know. Dumb. Only about 2 quarts though so I'm hoping it mixes.

  • Answer:

    Best to drain the coolant, fill with water, drain and refill with the correct coolant. Chalk it up to experience. Two quarts is a lot compared to the relatively small amount that is actually in the system. While it is unlikely to damage things quickly there is no excuse for leaving it there for months.

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just drain the radiator and re-fill with coolant/antifreeze.

smokey

Not if you have your radiator flushed.

Tom C

Na it wont hurt it be sure to flush with fresh water 2 times and mix 50/50 water and coolant,no harm,shoot you can pee in your radiator in a emergency,engines are rugged don't sweat it.

hemi426mopar

naw

deirdrefaith

Get your radiator flushed IMMEDIATELY. and in the future, pay closer attention to where you put fluids in your car... they go in certain places for a reason.

-^Chris^-

Drain it out it may foam up and your car will overheat

arlanymor

Don't panic, washer fluid is alcohol based, that is what they used to use as anti-freeze. Ethylene glycol based(the green stuff) is referred to as permanent anti-freeze, while the alcohol stuff will evaporate out quickly. I would drain the radiator anyway because I don't know how it reacts with new car gaskets and aluminum radiators.

Bill D

Drain the system and flush with water. Refill with a blend of coolant and distilled water, for your climate. The washer fluid will change the cooling characteristics. Most washer fluids have alcohol, ammonia, vinegar or some other chemical to breakdown grease, bugs, dirt and grime. These are not good for the antifreeze and may cause rust to build up in your system. I hope this helps.

ZoneRider

Your car will overheat at a lower temperature.

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