How Many Liters of Antifreeze Should Be Added to a Car?
2 Answers
A car typically requires about 4 liters of antifreeze. Antifreeze prevents the coolant from freezing during cold winter parking, which could otherwise crack the radiator and damage the engine block or cylinder head. How to Choose Antifreeze: The basic indicators of antifreeze are its freezing and boiling points. The market offers antifreeze with freezing points of -15°C, -25°C, -30°C, -40°C, etc. Generally, it is advisable to choose one that is at least 10°C lower than the lowest temperature in your region. Can Different Antifreeze Brands Be Mixed? It is necessary to use the same brand of antifreeze. Different brands may have varying production formulas, and mixing them could lead to chemical reactions between additives, rendering them ineffective. Antifreeze Replacement Cycle: 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 every two years or every 30,000 kilometers is sufficient. To prevent excessive foam formation, which reduces 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 remain effective for 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.
The amount of antifreeze to add to a car usually depends on the vehicle size. Generally, 4 to 6 liters is sufficient for a compact car. For example, when I take my small car for maintenance, the technician recommends adding about half a bucket, roughly 5 liters. It's essential to first check the fluid level with a dipstick to ensure it's between the min and max marks. Adding too much can cause overflow and corrode parts, while too little can lead to engine overheating. I recommend checking the owner's manual beforehand, as requirements may vary slightly between brands. Also, antifreeze isn't pure water; remember to mix it with distilled water at a 50% ratio, which prevents freezing in winter and improves corrosion resistance in summer. The replacement cycle is typically every two years or 50,000 kilometers—don't wait until it changes color. If you're unsure when adding it yourself, it's best to clean the radiator opening first before pouring it in.
