* Cooling: Its primary role is to absorb heat generated by the engine's combustion process and transfer it to the radiator where it's dissipated into the atmosphere. This prevents the engine from overheating, which can cause serious damage.
* Preventing Freezing: Coolant contains additives that lower the freezing point of water, preventing the coolant from freezing in cold weather. Frozen coolant can expand and crack engine components.
* Lubrication: Coolant lubricates the water pump and other components within the cooling system, ensuring smooth operation and preventing wear.
* Corrosion Inhibition: The additives in coolant protect engine components from corrosion caused by the acidic nature of water. This extends the lifespan of the engine and its cooling system.
* Heat Transfer Enhancement: Coolant is formulated to efficiently transfer heat, better than water alone.
In short, engine coolant is essential for maintaining the proper operating temperature and longevity of an internal combustion engine.