Protecting your vehicle's engine requires the right antifreeze and coolant solutions. Ace Hardware stocks engine coolant products from brands like Peak, Prestone and Prime Guard to keep your car, truck or RV running smoothly year-round. Whether you need concentrated formulas or ready-to-use 50/50 mixtures, our automotive department provides reliable protection against freezing temperatures and overheating conditions.
Types of Engine Coolant and Antifreeze
Modern vehicles require specific coolant for car applications based on manufacturer recommendations. Factors include the age of vehicles, low and high temperatures of area, and length of corrosion protection desired. Today’s advanced formulations contain organic acid technology that prevents rust and scale buildup in cooling systems for longer periods.
Common coolant types include:
- 50/50 pre-diluted coolant: Ready to use with no mixing required.
- Concentrated antifreeze: Mix with water to your preferred ratio.
- Dex-Cool and extended life formulas: Designed for longer service intervals.
- RV and marine antifreeze: Non-toxic options for winterizing water systems.
- Universal coolants: Compatible with a wide range of makes and models.
Benefits of Using the Right Antifreeze
Using the correct antifreeze helps protect your engine from corrosion, scale buildup and extreme temperatures. It also supports efficient heat transfer and helps maintain consistent engine performance. Specialty coolants for RVs and marine systems prevent freezing in plumbing lines during off-season storage. With regular use, antifreeze can extend the life of your engine and cooling system components.
What Are RV and Marine Winterization Solutions?
RV antifreeze serves a completely different purpose than automotive coolant applications. This specialized fluid protects recreational vehicle plumbing systems during winter storage periods. RV antifreeze prevents freezing damage in water lines, pumps and holding tanks without the toxicity concerns of automotive products. Marine applications also benefit from these non-toxic formulations that won't harm the environment if accidentally spilled. Our recreational vehicle parts and accessories section carries both concentrated and ready-to-use RV antifreeze options for complete winterization protection.
Engine Maintenance with Antifreeze and Coolant
Choosing the correct car coolant involves understanding your vehicle's specific requirements and local climate conditions. Concentrated antifreeze allows custom mixing ratios, while pre-mixed 50/50 solutions eliminate guesswork for most applications. Testing existing coolant helps determine replacement timing and mixture strength. Simple coolant testers available in our fluids and lubrication department provide accurate readings for the freeze point.
Essential maintenance steps include:
- Testing coolant strength before winter
- Checking for proper freeze protection levels
- Inspecting hoses and connections for leaks
- Flushing system every 30,000 miles or per the manufacturer schedule
Regular cooling system maintenance helps prevent costly repairs and extends engine life.
Tips for Properly Handling and Storing Antifreeze
Get the most out of your coolant with these helpful tips:
- Store products away from children and pets, as even small amounts can be harmful if ingested
- Dispose of used coolant at designated recycling centers where it can be processed and reused responsibly
- Wear gloves and safety glasses when working with concentrated formulas to prevent skin and eye contact
Shop Antifreeze Near You at Ace
Find quality antifreeze and coolant solutions at your local Ace Hardware store. Our knowledgeable associates can help you select the right products for your specific vehicle needs. Browse our selection online or visit us in-store for convenient pickup and delivery options. Locate an antifreeze location near you and keep your engine protected. At Ace, you can also find quality car cleaning supplies, auto tools and tire maintenance essentials to complement your vehicle maintenance routine.
