
Coolant can be changed by yourself. Replacing coolant is not difficult, but it requires some professional tools, and doing it yourself can be quite troublesome. First, you cannot change the coolant directly when the engine is hot to avoid being scalded. Here is the relevant information: 1. Steps to replace coolant: (1) First, drain the original coolant completely. Locate the drain valve of the car's cooling system, usually at the bottom of the car. Open the expansion tank cap, lift the car, and unscrew the drain screw to drain all the coolant. (2) After draining the coolant, fill the radiator and cooling system with clean water to flush the interior until clear water flows out from the drain. (3) Tighten the drain screw and pour new coolant into the expansion tank until the liquid level is between the MAX and MIN marks. (4) Close the tank cap, start the car, and the coolant level in the tank will slowly drop. At this time, you need to add coolant again, still filling it to the position between the MAX and MIN marks. 2. The shelf life of most engine coolants is about two years. Once the shelf life is exceeded, it needs to be replaced. That is to say, engine coolant needs to be replaced every two years. Some long-life coolants have a shelf life of 5 years, so the specific replacement time should be decided based on actual conditions. For frequently used vehicles, such as taxis, which have high mileage, they can be replaced every 40,000 kilometers.

As an experienced DIY car enthusiast, I can indeed change the coolant myself—it's simple and cost-effective. The process isn't difficult, but safety is crucial: the engine must be completely cool, waiting at least one or two hours after parking, otherwise hot fluid could spray and cause burns. When draining the old coolant, use a bucket to catch it—don’t pour it on the ground to avoid environmental contamination, and take it to a professional recycling station. Before adding new coolant, check the manual for the correct color and type, and avoid mixing them to prevent system damage. I check it annually and replace it if I notice contamination or low levels, which helps prevent corrosion and overheating. Work slowly when pouring to prevent bubbles. After the change, start the car to check for leaks and monitor the temperature gauge. The whole process takes about 30 minutes and saves dozens in labor costs, but if there’s a leak or the wrong coolant is used, it could cost a fortune to repair the engine. So, inexperienced friends should watch tutorials and practice first.


