cooling antifreeze question

[ThomasG]

Hi all.
A quick one, and maybe silly, but I don't know so I ask:

Currently I'm running on 50/50 mix of Volvo antifreeze.

I'm planning to go mainland for Christmas (tyres already on order).
Is there benefit in changing mix ratio of antifreeze?
I think I could expect -15 trough Germany, but where I'm going it isn't unlikely to see -25, even -30 Celsius.. (There's a reason place is called "cold pole of Europe")

With freezing temperatures, is there anything else to look at?

[Clan]

Originally Posted by ThomasG

Hi all.
A quick one, and maybe silly, but I don't know so I ask:

Currently I'm running on 50/50 mix of Volvo antifreeze.

I'm planning to go mainland for Christmas (tyres already on order).
Is there benefit in changing mix ratio of antifreeze?
I think I could expect -15 trough Germany, but where I'm going it isn't unlikely to see -25, even -30 Celsius.. (There's a reason place is called "cold pole of Europe")

With freezing temperatures, is there anything else to look at?

You already have the ultimate protection down to -37 C adding more coolant will actually reduce the freezing point and make it worse ..

[Georgeandkira]

Make certain your windscreen washer fluid is "low temperature" stuff as well.

We have "dollar store" stuff here with a higher freezing point....it's blue to be sure but it ain't what you want.

[ThomasG]

Originally Posted by Georgeandkira

Make certain your windscreen washer fluid is "low temperature" stuff as well.

We have "dollar store" stuff here with a higher freezing point....it's blue to be sure but it ain't what you want.

A very good point!
So obvious and so easy to miss
Thank you!

[petey]

Also any drinks bottles, cans or spare water that gets stuffed into cubbyholes, they can split when frozen...

[harveys]

Nearer the time look at the oil grade you run with & Get the battery tested ?.

[Georgeandkira]

...got me thinking about the "safety supplies" the Germans require in cars.
The laws might not apply to you being a visitor but following their lead could be smart. First Aid...known fresh batteries for torches...single can tire inflator (bring inside at night)...

[ThomasG]

Battery you said...
Interesting..
I wonder just how old mine actually is..
5 or so years as I have this car, never failed me. But never been in such temperatures either.
Its the battery that I bought car with.

Re: safety bits and bobs

Only thing I'm missing at this stage are snow chains.
Looks like Germany is the only country that requires these at least in the boot..