What is the correct mixture for engine coolant?

The correct mixture for engine coolant is 50% antifreeze and 50% distilled water because this balance ensures optimal protection against freezing and overheating. Antifreeze lowers the freezing point of the coolant and raises its boiling point, while distilled water serves to improve the fluid's heat transfer properties. Using this mixture provides effective thermal regulation of the engine while also preventing damage from corrosion and scale buildup.

In many automotive and machinery applications, a 50/50 mixture is commonly recommended by manufacturers, as it achieves a good compromise between freezing and boiling point protection while ensuring adequate cooling performance. In contrast, mixtures with significantly higher concentrations of either antifreeze or water could lead to inefficiencies, potentially resulting in engine damage or overheating under extreme conditions.