How often should the coolant be replaced in a Rapid?
2 Answers
The coolant in a Rapid should be replaced every 2 years. The function of coolant is to prevent freezing during cold winter parking, which could cause the radiator to crack or damage the engine cylinder block or head due to expansion. The dimensions of the Rapid are: length 4512mm, width 1706mm, height 1469mm, with a wheelbase of 2603mm, a fuel tank capacity of 52.8 liters, and a body structure of a 4-door 5-seater sedan. The Rapid is equipped with a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine, with a maximum power of 82kW and a maximum torque of 145Nm, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. It features a front suspension type of MacPherson independent suspension and a rear suspension type of torsion beam non-independent suspension.
I've been driving this Rapid for five years, and I always change the antifreeze every two years as required by the manual. Actually, I'm quite meticulous about maintenance. Once, I delayed the service by three months and found rust particles floating in the radiator. The mechanic said it was due to expired antifreeze corroding the pipes. Now, I make sure to visit the 4S dealership every two years on schedule to replace the original antifreeze and have them inspect the entire cooling system. Winters in the north are extremely cold, and if the freezing point isn't low enough, the radiator could crack. Antifreeze isn't just for preventing freezing—it also prevents boiling and corrosion. Every time after a change, the temperature gauge stays rock steady even on high-speed drives, so the money is well spent. My advice is not to listen to repair shops touting long-life formulas—stick to the regular replacement cycle for the safest results.
