Can car owners replace the coolant themselves?
3 Answers
Car owners can replace the coolant themselves, and the replacement steps are as follows: 1. Wait for the vehicle to cool down. Do not replace the antifreeze when the engine is in a high-temperature state; 2. Drain the old coolant. There are several methods for draining, and after the original coolant is completely drained, new coolant can be added. The full name of coolant should be antifreeze coolant, meaning it is a coolant with antifreeze function, which can prevent the coolant from freezing and cracking the radiator or damaging the engine cylinder block during parking in cold seasons. Antifreeze is not only for winter use but should be used all year round. In regular car maintenance, the engine antifreeze should be replaced every year.
Changing coolant is something I often DIY in the garage, and I think car owners can definitely give it a try—it's simple and saves money. First, wait for the engine to cool overnight or for a few hours; don't touch hot parts to avoid burns. The tools you need are just gloves for corrosion protection, a bucket to catch the old coolant, and a funnel to add the new one. Buy the right ethylene glycol-based coolant and don’t mix colors randomly. After draining the old coolant, flush the system with distilled water, then fill it with new coolant up to the marked line—don’t overfill. Remember to change it every two years or 30,000 kilometers to prevent engine overheating and extend its lifespan. Doing it yourself takes just half an hour, saving you repair shop fees, and there are plenty of easy-to-follow tutorials online.
Car owners can replace the coolant themselves, but I must remind them to always be mindful of safety risks. Coolant is toxic—avoid contact or ingestion, wear thick gloves, and work in a well-ventilated area. Dispose of old coolant properly to avoid environmental contamination. Hot engine residues and high-pressure steam can cause injuries, so ensure the vehicle is parked and completely cooled before starting. Beginners should consider having a friend supervise, especially for older cars that may have vent valve issues. DIY replacement can save over 200 yuan, but carefully read the manual to select the correct type. My approach is to proceed slowly, ensuring proper sealing at each step.
