Can Coolants Be Mixed?
2 Answers
Coolants cannot be mixed. Different coolants contain varying chemical additives such as rust inhibitors, anti-corrosion agents, defoamers, and dyes, which may react chemically when mixed, leading to hazards like sedimentation and scaling. Below are precautions for coolant usage: Flush When Changing Types: When switching to a different type of coolant, it is essential to completely drain the original antifreeze and thoroughly clean the cooling system before refilling. Coolant Replacement Intervals: Different automakers have varying recommended intervals for replacing factory coolant. Most manufacturers advise changing the vehicle's coolant every 2 years, while some specify replacement cycles of 4 or 5 years for their original coolant.
As a seasoned driver with decades of experience, I must emphasize that coolant should never be mixed indiscriminately. In my younger days, trying to save effort, I mixed blue and green coolant and poured it into my car. Within a week, the engine started overheating. At the repair shop, upon disassembly, we found the radiator and hoses full of gel-like residue, costing nearly a thousand yuan to fix. It turns out different brands of coolant have vastly different formulations—mixing organic acid and inorganic acid types causes chemical reactions, producing sediment that clogs the system and corrodes aluminum components. Now, I strictly follow the manual's advice: changing it every two years and using only the same type of coolant. Remember, color isn't an absolute standard; always check the label for matching formulations. This way, your car lasts longer without unnecessary expenses.
