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Can you use water instead of coolant in the summer?

I’ve heard that it’s ok to use distilled water instead of coolant, since it’s mainly for cars that drive often in colder temperatures. Can I use distilled water instead of coolant?

avatar
Bianca (Bee) Davis · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
While water can serve as coolant in an emergency and is good knowledge to have, you should always use real coolant for your car.
The idea that coolant is just for cold climates is actually a misconception. Coolant does a range of things for your engine, including keeping it from overheating. Water doesn’t do too well over boiling temperatures, and the heat that builds in an engine can quickly boil water and cause it to evaporate. Even in the summertime, you should always use proper coolant fluid to keep you and your car safe.
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