Can the remaining opened coolant still be used?
2 Answers
It can continue to be used, but it is recommended to use the opened coolant within two years. Before use, check whether the coolant has deteriorated. Definition of antifreeze: Antifreeze can prevent the coolant from freezing when parking in cold winter, which may crack the radiator and freeze the engine cylinder block. Function of antifreeze: It plays an anti-corrosion protection role for the components of the cooling system. It prevents scale and avoids reducing the heat dissipation effect of the radiator. It ensures that the engine can work within the normal temperature range. It must have the characteristics of antifreeze, anti-boiling, anti-corrosion, anti-scale, and no foam, and is not affected by seasons and regions.
I've encountered this situation before, can the remaining coolant be used? It depends on how it was stored. If the bottle was tightly sealed after opening and kept in a cool place without prolonged exposure, it might be okay for a short period. However, coolant exposed to air tends to absorb moisture and contaminants, which can lead to deterioration over time, reducing its antifreeze capability or causing rust, potentially damaging the engine. I recommend checking the coolant's color; if it's clear and free of impurities, you can try a small amount, but don't rely on it long-term. If it's been stored for more than six months, it's best not to use it. For safety, buy a new bottle to replace it to avoid clogging the system or causing overheating. Keeping the coolant fresh is crucial to ensure smooth vehicle operation.