How Often Should Car Engine Coolant Be Replaced?
2 Answers
Car engine coolant should be replaced every two years. If the coolant is not replaced for a long time, its cooling performance will decrease, and the freezing point will also be insufficient. If the freezing point is insufficient, the coolant may freeze in winter. When the liquid freezes, its volume expands, which can damage the engine cooling system. When the vehicle's coolant is insufficient, never use water as a substitute for coolant. Water contains minerals that can form scale when heated, potentially clogging the engine's water passages. If water must be added, distilled water should be used. The full name of coolant is antifreeze coolant, meaning it has antifreeze properties. It prevents the coolant from freezing and expanding in cold weather, which could crack the radiator or damage the engine cylinder block.
As a driver with over a decade of experience, I believe coolant replacement frequency truly depends on specific circumstances. Generally speaking, my rule of thumb is to change it every 2-3 years or approximately every 30,000 kilometers, as coolant deteriorates over time, losing its antifreeze and anticorrosion properties. Some new vehicles use long-life coolant, such as those labeled OAT, which can last over 5 years or 50,000 kilometers. During my last replacement, inspection revealed the fluid had turned cloudy with some sediment – that's when immediate replacement is necessary. Make it a habit to check the radiator fluid level quarterly, ensuring it doesn't drop below the MIN line to prevent engine overheating damage. Especially before winter, prioritize antifreeze performance testing by using a hydrometer to verify concentration meets standards. Ultimately, following your vehicle's manual recommendations is most reliable – models vary significantly, and delaying maintenance only increases repair costs.
