How Often Should Coolant Be Replaced?
2 Answers
The replacement interval for coolant is generally within the range of every 2 years or 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers. The specific replacement cycle may vary slightly depending on the brand and model of the vehicle, as each manufacturer has its own standards. The exact replacement time or mileage is clearly stated in the vehicle's maintenance manual or user manual. Method for Replacing Coolant: Before completely replacing the coolant, a thorough inspection should be conducted to check for any signs of leakage or cracks in the pipes, with particular attention to the five-way water pipe. The five-way pipe is named for its five connecting interfaces that link various parts of the vehicle. Coolant flows through the five-way pipe and is then distributed to different parts of the car to perform its function. If there is any sign of coolant leakage in this section, the water pipe should be replaced or the interface should be re-secured as needed. Drain the old coolant, then flush the liquid channels with clean water. Add clean water to the coolant reservoir, then continue to pour water into the reservoir so that it flows continuously through the engine cooling system. Start the engine and let it idle for 3 to 5 minutes to allow the water to circulate. The water initially flowing out of the reservoir may have a faint pink tint. Continue adding clean water until the water runs clear. Note: Do not forget to remove the heater hose and drain the water from the heater core. About an hour after draining, add the new coolant through the radiator hose—this is the fastest way to fill the radiator with coolant. Then, add another bottle of coolant to the reservoir until it is nearly full. Start the engine and let it run for about 10 minutes. During this time, the coolant level will drop slightly as air is purged from the cooling system. Top up the coolant to the "MAXT" mark on the reservoir.
Having driven for over a decade, I've learned that coolant replacement shouldn't just be based on time. Regular coolant needs changing every two years, but those long-life formulas can last up to five. My neighbor's car suffered badly last time when deteriorated coolant clogged the radiator, costing over 2,000 yuan in repairs. Remember to have mechanics check both the freezing point and fluid level during every maintenance service. Never mix different colored coolants as they can form gelatinous deposits. This is especially crucial in northern winters - failed coolant can cause the entire cooling system to freeze. Another detail: modern cars come with level sensors - never ignore the dashboard warning light, immediately top up with the same coolant type.
