Can I change the antifreeze by myself?
3 Answers
Antifreeze can be changed by yourself, but it is necessary to select the same brand, model, and specification of antifreeze product, and add it appropriately according to the remaining antifreeze content in the engine. Antifreeze replacement cycle: For vehicles that run for long periods, such as taxis, etc. Generally, high-quality antifreeze should be replaced once a year, while those with shorter running times can be replaced every two years or every 30,000 kilometers. To prevent excessive foam formation that reduces the heat exchange performance between the antifreeze and engine components, ensure the product is within its validity period when adding it. Long-lasting antifreeze can have a validity period of up to three years. If suspended solids, sediments, or signs of deterioration or discoloration are found in the antifreeze, it should be replaced promptly, and the system should be cleaned. Antifreeze replacement method: Before completely replacing the antifreeze, conduct a thorough inspection to check for any signs of leakage or cracks in the pipes, with a focus on the five-way water pipe. The five-way pipe gets its name from having five interfaces connecting various parts. Antifreeze flows through the five-way pipe and is distributed to different parts of the car to function. If there is any leakage of antifreeze in this part, the water pipe should be replaced or the interface should be re-secured as needed. Drain the old antifreeze, then clean the liquid channels with water. Add clean water to the antifreeze replenishment tank, then continue to pour water into the tank to allow clean water to flow continuously through the engine cooling system. Start the engine and let it idle for 3 to 5 minutes to circulate the water. The water initially flowing out of the tank will be slightly pinkish; continue adding clean water until the water coming out is clear. Note: Do not forget to remove the heater hose and drain the water from the heater core.
I've changed the coolant a few times myself and found it quite straightforward. Preparation is key - let the engine cool for several hours to avoid burns. The tools needed are just a few wrenches, a bucket, and gloves. Make sure to buy the correct coolant type, matching the color like green. Locate the radiator drain plug during the operation, slowly drain the old fluid, flush the system with clean water after emptying, then refill with new coolant to the marked level. Be careful not to mix different colors, as it may corrode the system. After each change, check for leaks to save on repair costs. Overall, it's not difficult to do it yourself, but you need to be careful to avoid spills.
Last time I planned to save money by changing the coolant myself, but it didn’t go as smoothly as expected. After the engine cooled down, I opened the cap, but some old fluid splashed onto the ground during draining, making cleanup a hassle and raising environmental concerns. I also picked the wrong coolant type, which later caused some unusual noises in the system. Now I realize that if you’re not familiar with the process, it’s better not to bother. Repair shops have all the tools—they can thoroughly flush and inspect the system to ensure the cooling system stays healthy. Paying for peace of mind is worth it—safety comes first. Especially for beginners, spending hours on it might do more harm than good. Better to save the time.
