Using tap water instead of coolant in a Civic X

[ce.affanmunir1]

I purchased a Civic X from a family friend, but the car wasn’t well taken care of. It seems their driver might have scammed them, as upon inspection, the car was found to have non-genuine plugs and brake pads at 92,000 km. The engine shield was missing, water was used instead of coolant (and there were leakages), and it had fake filters and random viscosity oils. The mileage is genuine since they are a family friend and the first owner. I also found a very old oil/filter change history log with the mileage recorded, which further verifies the mileage.

After purchasing the car, I had the radiator cleaned and topped it off with blue coolant from Honda. I didn’t check the levels immediately after that, and after two months, I found the levels were below the minimum (I also didn’t check the levels after getting it filled at Honda). I topped it off with tap water instead of distilled water or coolant, as only a small amount was needed to bring the levels above the minimum. For peace of mind, I’m asking if this was the right approach or if I did something incorrect.

[sohikun]

No, it's never recommended to use tap water. In the long run, it will cause many issues e.g rust & corrosion etc etc. It's always recommended to use a 50/50 mix of distilled water and coolant.

[pwuser166331039855]

check this thread which i posted today.
my car was running on water too. Radiator lines were jammed and lot of dirt was removed.

Radiator Serviced from Lahore Radiator

Found a minor leak in Radiator of Premio since it was reducing coolant level from expansion bottle. And thought to have its Radiator service. Since the ex-owner was completely running it on water. when i bought this car, i add coolant in it. so here we go picture by picture. For all the members who live in Lahore, plz note the contact number of Mr. Shahid of Lahore Radiator. I believe they are totally professional in the field of Radiators and are in this business since 1972 0300 9459334 …

[ce.affanmunir1]

The car has coolant, it's not running 100% on water. I just added a little water on top of the coolant to bring the levels from below minimum to maximum, adding only around 1 or half a liter, I guess.

[sohikun]

It doesn't matter, again, tap water contains many containments and many impurities. In the long run, you will face many issues, as mentioned in my previous post.

Bro, it's like starting a fire in your home and then saying, i only lit the carpet on fire. Stop giving yourself the green light, again, this is gonna ruin your car in the long run. Rest is upto you bro, I think this thread has ran its course. I'm out.

[ce.affanmunir1]

Thanks! I initially thought you misunderstood my post and assumed I topped up the car with just water. What you mentioned in your last comment is exactly what I was asking. Thanks again!