How Many Kilometers Should You Drive Before Changing the Antifreeze?
3 Answers
It is recommended to change the antifreeze every 40,000 to 50,000 kilometers. Here are some relevant details about antifreeze: 1. Regular replacement is essential. If not changed for a long time, the antifreeze's freezing point may rise, and its boiling point may drop, which can affect the engine's normal operation. 2. When replacing the antifreeze, ensure the old antifreeze is completely drained. The full name of antifreeze is antifreeze coolant. 3. Most antifreeze products have a validity period of two years (some products may last longer). When adding antifreeze, confirm the product is within its validity period. Expired antifreeze can negatively impact engine performance.
From my experience, it's generally safe to replace the coolant every 40,000 to 50,000 kilometers, but this depends on your car model and driving habits. For example, I mostly drive a family car in urban areas, and the manual recommends changing it at 40,000 km. Following this, my cooling system has always run smoothly. If you frequently haul cargo or drive long distances, which causes more wear, you should check it every 30,000 km. You can test it yourself using a test strip to check the pH level—if it's below 7, it's too acidic and can corrode the engine. Don’t exceed 50,000 km, or you might end up like my neighbor whose coolant degraded and stank, costing a fortune to repair the radiator. Remember to choose the right type when replacing it: traditional green coolant is cheaper but has a shorter lifespan, while orange organic acid coolant lasts longer. Regular minor maintenance can prevent major issues—it’s simple, inexpensive, and you can even do it yourself.
As someone who frequently deals with car repairs, I recommend not delaying coolant replacement beyond 60,000 kilometers. The standard interval is every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers. For regular ethylene glycol types, the maximum is 50,000 km, but organic acid-based ones like HOAT can last up to 70,000 km. Timing is crucial—if unused for over two years, it can deteriorate. I've encountered clients who didn't change it on time, leading to cloudy coolant clogging pipes and engine overheating damage. Check the fluid level and color every 20,000 km; clear fluid indicates good health. Using a cooling system cleaner before refilling enhances effectiveness. Don't just focus on mileage—in cold regions with lower freezing points and faster aging, early replacement ensures safety.
