How often should antifreeze and brake fluid be replaced?
3 Answers
Antifreeze should be replaced every 2 years or 60,000 kilometers, and brake fluid should be replaced every 40,000 kilometers or 2 years. Antifreeze replacement cycle: For vehicles that run for long periods, such as taxis, high-quality antifreeze should generally be replaced once a year. For vehicles with shorter running times, it can be replaced every two years or every 30,000 kilometers. 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 have a validity period of up to three years. If suspended particles, sediment, or signs of deterioration or discoloration are found in the antifreeze, it should be replaced promptly, and the system should be cleaned. How to choose antifreeze: The basic indicators of antifreeze are its freezing point and boiling point. On the market, antifreeze is available with freezing points of -15°C, -25°C, -30°C, -40°C, etc. Generally, it is advisable to choose an antifreeze with a freezing point at least 10°C lower than the lowest temperature in your region.
I've been driving for over ten years, and you can't be careless about these two maintenance items: coolant and brake fluid. Coolant mainly prevents freezing, boiling, and corrosion, and it's generally recommended to change it every two years or after driving 40,000 kilometers. Once, I tried to save money and used it for an extra half a year, only to find the cooling system clogged, costing me thousands to repair. Brake fluid absorbs moisture more easily and should be changed when the water content exceeds 3%. I make sure to change it every two years without fail. Last time during rainy weather, I encountered an emergency, and thanks to changing the brake fluid in advance, I was able to stop the car in time. Older cars need even more frequent checks—look for color darkening and whether the freezing point is sufficient. When it comes to safety, you can't afford to skimp on these expenses.
Last time when I went for maintenance, the mechanic checked the brake fluid moisture content as a routine procedure, and it was seriously exceeded the standard. Here I must emphasize that brake fluid must be replaced every two years. It absorbs moisture from the air like a sponge, and over time the braking performance will be significantly compromised - you might even experience brake failure during emergency stops. As for coolant, it's the guardian angel of your engine. Replacing it every two years or 40,000 kilometers is absolutely correct. In humid southern regions, it's advisable to change brake fluid a bit earlier. In northern winters, make sure the coolant's freezing point meets the standard. I always request inspections of these two items during every maintenance service, because safety performance is the bottom line of driving - never hesitate to spend money where it counts.
