Does Car Antifreeze Need to Be Replaced?
2 Answers
Car antifreeze does need to be replaced. For vehicles that operate for long periods, such as taxis, high-quality antifreeze should generally be replaced once a year. For vehicles with shorter operating times, replacement can be done every two years or every 30,000 kilometers. To prevent excessive foam formation, which can reduce the heat exchange efficiency 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 particles, sediment, discoloration, or deterioration are observed in the antifreeze, it should be replaced promptly, and the system should be cleaned. Method for replacing antifreeze: Drain the old antifreeze and then flush the fluid channels with clean water. Add clean water to the antifreeze reservoir, then continue adding water to ensure a continuous flow through the engine cooling system. Start the engine and let it idle for 3 to 5 minutes to circulate the water. Initially, the water draining from the reservoir will have a faint pink tint. Continue adding clean water until the drained water runs clear. Note: Remember to disconnect the heater hose and drain all water from the heater core. Approximately one hour after draining, add new antifreeze through the radiator hose to allow it to flow quickly into the radiator. Then, add another container of antifreeze to the antifreeze 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 slightly as air is purged from the system. Top up the antifreeze to the "MAX" mark on the reservoir.
My car has been running for over ten years, and the antifreeze definitely needs to be replaced regularly. The first time I neglected it, the engine almost froze and wouldn't start in winter. Later, I learned that the old fluid had lost its antifreeze capability and was corroding the pipes. I usually replace it every two years, as recommended by the vehicle manual. Antifreeze isn’t just for preventing freezing—it also cools the engine to prevent overheating. Over time, it deteriorates, its additives deplete, and it loses its protective properties. Daily checks are simple: just see if the fluid level is between min-max, and if the color turns cloudy or yellowish, replace it immediately. Don’t underestimate this—failing to change it increases repair costs, may lead to a breakdown on the road, wasting time and posing dangers. During routine maintenance, ask the mechanic to take a look. Spending a little now can save you a lot later.
