How Often Should the Antifreeze in a Car Be Replaced?
2 Answers
The antifreeze in a car should be replaced every two years. The main functions of antifreeze are: 1. During winter when temperatures are low, it prevents the coolant from freezing and expanding, which could crack the radiator and damage the engine cylinder block or head; 2. During summer when temperatures are high, it effectively prevents boiling, avoiding overheating issues. The hazards of not replacing antifreeze for a long time include: 1. Evaporation of water in the antifreeze, leading to changes in the freezing point and affecting its effectiveness; 2. Loss of anti-corrosion, anti-rust, and rust removal functions for the engine, impacting the engine's lifespan; 3. Increased viscosity, reducing cooling and heat dissipation efficiency.
I've been driving for many years, and the timing of coolant replacement is crucial. Generally, it should be changed every two to three years, depending on the vehicle's manual. If left unchanged for too long, the coolant can become acidic and corrode the engine's cooling system, leading to leaks or overheating, which can be troublesome and expensive to repair. Nowadays, some long-life coolants can last up to five or six years, but regular ones shouldn't exceed three years. Regularly checking the color and concentration is basic maintenance; if it appears cloudy, address it immediately—don't wait until something goes wrong to regret it.
