Do I Need to Add Antifreeze Myself?
3 Answers
Antifreeze needs to be added by yourself. Under normal circumstances, it should be added every two years or 40,000 kilometers. Its function is to prevent the coolant from freezing during cold winter parking, which could cause the radiator to crack or damage the engine cylinder block or head. The method for replacing antifreeze is: 1. Unscrew the radiator cap and open the radiator drain valve to release the antifreeze; 2. Run the engine at idle speed and inject clean water until the radiator discharges clear water; 3. After the clean water has completely drained, close the drain valve; 4. Add new antifreeze until the liquid level is between the MAX and MIN marks; 5. Close the cap and let the engine idle for two to three minutes. Precautions for using antifreeze include: 1. Try to use the same brand of antifreeze; 2. Ensure it is within the validity period when adding; 3. Avoid diluting it with water; 4. If a large amount of particle precipitation appears, it indicates the antifreeze has deteriorated and should no longer be used.
You can indeed add antifreeze yourself, but you need to be careful. I enjoy tinkering with my car, and regularly checking the cooling system is key to maintaining engine health. Check the antifreeze level once a month, and if it's low, open the radiator cap and top it up with the right type for your car. Remember to mix with the same color antifreeze and avoid adding water or other types, as this could corrode the engine. The tools are simple—use a funnel to prevent spills and wear gloves to protect your skin. The whole process takes no more than 10 minutes, saving you money and teaching you something new. But if you're a beginner, watch some tutorials on YouTube first to avoid overfilling and causing pressure issues. Since I started doing it myself, my car hasn’t had any overheating warnings, which gives me peace of mind, and I can spot potential minor issues early.
As a homemaker who frequently drives, I believe adding antifreeze isn't something you must do yourself. Safety comes first! I check my car's fluid levels weekly in the garage. If I notice they're low, I'll either tell my husband or drive straight to the repair shop. Since different antifreeze brands have varying compositions, randomly adding them could damage the car. The mechanics at the shop use professional tools to refill it and can also inspect the entire cooling system to prevent leaks or freezing damage. With children in the car, safety is my top priority. If I make a mistake while adding it myself, engine overheating and breakdowns could become serious issues. Cost-wise, a bottle of antifreeze costs about 20 yuan, while the service fee at the shop is only 30 yuan—it's hassle-free and convenient. During regular maintenance, they automatically check it. All I need to do is glance at the reservoir markings when the engine is cold to ensure the level is between the high and low lines.
