Refractometer (Coolant And AdBlue Tester)
A refractometer measures the concentration of coolant, AdBlue or battery acid using light refraction.
What is Refractometer (Coolant And AdBlue Tester)?
A few drops of liquid are placed on a prism. The scale shows freeze protection or concentration. It is more accurate than float testers. Freeze protection depends on the glycol type, so testers have separate scales for ethylene and propylene glycol. AdBlue should contain about 32.5 percent urea; a refractometer can detect diluted or contaminated fluid. Clean the prism after every test to avoid cross-contamination.
How it works
The liquid bends light differently depending on concentration.
Why it matters for your car
Calibrate with distilled water. Use the correct scale for the liquid type.
Other terms
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
- Ambient Temperature Sensor (Outside Temperature)
- Brake Fluid Level Sensor
- Breakaway Cable
- Cargo Barrier (Dog Guard)
- Crankshaft Position Sensor
- Crash Test Dummy
- DPF Differential Pressure Sensor
- Engine Break-in (Running-in)
- Flex-Fuel Vehicle (E85)
- LIN Bus
- Ozone Treatment (Odour Removal)
- Paint Protection Film (PPF)
- Reduction Gear (Single-speed Gearbox)
- Rust Converter
- SAE Levels Of Driving Automation
- Series Hybrid
- Synthetic Engine Oil
- Trailer And Caravan Tyres
- Wire Wheels (Spoked Wheels)