How Many Liters of Coolant Are Needed for Replacement?
3 Answers
Replacing coolant generally requires about 4-6 liters. Vehicle coolant typically needs to be replaced every 2 years or 40,000 kilometers. Method for replacing coolant: Before completely replacing the coolant, conduct a thorough inspection to check for any signs of leakage or cracks in the pipes, with a focus on the five-way hose. The five-way hose is named for its five connections to various parts, and the coolant flows through it to be distributed to different parts of the vehicle to function. If there is any leakage of coolant in this area, the hose should be replaced or the connections re-secured as necessary. Drain the old coolant, then flush the liquid channels with clean water. Add clean water to the coolant reservoir, then continuously inject water into the reservoir to allow it to flow 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 will have a faint pink color. Continue adding clean water until the outflow is clear. Note: Remember to remove the heater hose to drain the water from the heater core. After draining for about an hour, add the new coolant through the radiator hose to allow it to flow quickly into the radiator. Then, add another container of coolant to the reservoir until it is nearly full. Start the engine and let it run for about 10 minutes. As the cooling system expels some air, the coolant level will drop. Add more coolant until it reaches the "MAX" mark on the reservoir.
When it comes to changing the coolant, the amount really depends on the size and type of the car. I've driven several types of cars, and for small sedans, it usually takes only 4 to 6 liters. For example, an old Santana model needs about 5 liters. Larger SUVs or off-road vehicles may require more than 7 liters. The key is not to guess blindly—I recommend checking the owner's manual first, as it clearly specifies the amount. If you're doing it yourself, buying a 5-liter jug is usually enough for a small sedan, and you can add more if needed. Before changing, make sure the engine has cooled down for at least half an hour to avoid burns. When draining the old coolant, aim it into a bucket to avoid spilling on the ground and polluting the environment. Regularly changing the coolant can extend the engine's lifespan, saving you money and hassle. I suggest changing it every two years or 50,000 kilometers.
When I changed the coolant for the first time, I lacked experience and bought a 6-liter bucket, only to find that my small car couldn't use it all, wasting a liter. Later, I learned that the amount varies greatly, generally starting from 4 liters for small cars and up to 10 liters for trucks. It's best to check the manual or ask a mechanic. Before changing, drain the old coolant and use special tools to remove any residue. When adding new coolant, don't exceed the full line—just follow the tank's scale. Make sure to choose the right coolant type for winter freeze protection and summer cooling, and mix it with distilled water according to the instructions. This way, you can avoid unnecessary expenses.
