Does Car Antifreeze Need to Be Replaced?
3 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, or signs of deterioration or discoloration are observed in the antifreeze, it should be replaced promptly, and the system should be cleaned. Method for replacing antifreeze: Drain the old antifreeze, then flush the fluid channels with clean water. Add water to the antifreeze reservoir and continue filling the reservoir with water to allow it to flow continuously through the engine cooling system. Start the engine and let it idle for 3 to 5 minutes to circulate the water. The water initially 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 remove 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 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 may drop slightly as air is purged from the system. Top up the antifreeze to the "MAX" mark on the reservoir.
I always pay attention to car maintenance, and coolant definitely needs to be replaced! Don't think it's just for winter antifreeze; it also prevents the radiator from boiling over in summer. Over time, this stuff deteriorates, and the rust inhibitors in it lose effectiveness, potentially corroding holes in the radiator and engine pipes. It's generally recommended to check its condition every two to three years or after driving 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers. If the color becomes cloudy or the concentration is insufficient, it's time to replace it. When replacing, make sure to have a professional drain the old fluid completely and mix the new fluid in the correct ratio. Never just add tap water directly, as it can cause scaling and clog the pipes. Regular replacement is excellent for the car's cooling system and can save a lot on repair costs.
I didn't understand this before either, but later a mechanic told me that antifreeze needs regular inspection and replacement. There are two main things to check with antifreeze: one is whether the freezing point is low enough - in our northern winters where temperatures drop below -20°C, insufficient freezing point can cause the entire cooling system to freeze and crack; the other is its pH level, which becomes acidic over time and corrodes metal pipes and rubber components. You can periodically check the liquid condition in the radiator yourself - if rust appears or the color fades, it's time for a change. Generally, you should consider replacing it after driving about 40,000 kilometers. Never wait until the car has problems to think about it.
