Can I Replace the Car Antifreeze Myself?

[StHaley]

You can replace the car antifreeze yourself. You need to purchase antifreeze of the same color as the original or a universal type. If the color is different, you should completely drain the original antifreeze before adding the new one. Different colors and brands of antifreeze may have different formulations, and mixing them could cause chemical reactions that may affect the antifreeze's performance. Method for replacing antifreeze: Drain the old antifreeze, then flush the fluid channels with clean water. Add water to the antifreeze reservoir and continuously pour water into the reservoir to allow it to flow through the engine cooling system. Then, start the engine and let it idle for 3 to 5 minutes to circulate the water. Initially, the water flowing out of the reservoir may have a faint pink tint. Continue adding clean water until the water coming out is clear. Note: Remember to disconnect the heater hose and drain the water from the heater core. After draining for about an hour, add the new antifreeze through the radiator hose. This allows the antifreeze to flow quickly into the radiator. Then, add another bottle of antifreeze to the reservoir until it is nearly full. Start the engine and let it run for about 10 minutes. During this time, the coolant level will drop as air is purged from the system. Add more antifreeze until it reaches the "MAXT" mark on the reservoir.