How often should the coolant be replaced in an Atenza?
2 Answers
Atenza's coolant should be replaced every two years or every 30,000 kilometers. To prevent excessive foam formation, which can reduce the heat exchange efficiency between the coolant and engine components, ensure the product is within its validity period when adding it. Long-life coolant can last up to three years. If suspended matter, sediment, or signs of deterioration or discoloration are found in the coolant, it should be replaced promptly, and the system should be cleaned. How to replace the coolant: Before completely replacing the coolant, conduct a thorough inspection to check for any signs of leakage or cracks in the pipelines, with a focus on the five-way water pipe. The coolant flows through the five-way pipe and is then distributed to different parts of the vehicle to function. If there is any leakage of coolant in this section, replace the water pipe or reseal the interface as needed. Drain the old coolant, then flush the liquid channels with clean water. Add clean water to the coolant reservoir and continue filling it until water flows continuously through the engine cooling system. Then, start the engine and let it idle for 3 to 5 minutes to circulate the water. Initially, the water flowing out of the reservoir will have a faint pink color. Continue adding clean water until the outflowing water is clear. Note: Remember to remove the heater hose and drain all water from the heater core. After draining for about an hour, add the new coolant through the radiator hose. Then, add another container of coolant to the coolant 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 expelled from the cooling system. Top up the coolant until it reaches the "MAXT" mark on the reservoir.
As a car enthusiast myself, I often tinker with maintenance details while driving my Mazda Atenza. Generally, it's recommended to replace the coolant every two years or after driving 30,000 kilometers. This is because over time, the coolant deteriorates and loses its effectiveness, failing to properly protect the engine from freezing or overheating. If not replaced in time, corrosion in the cooling system can lead to issues like water pump failure, which can be costly to repair. Checking it is simple—just pop the hood and inspect the level in the reservoir to ensure it's between the high and low marks. If the color turns cloudy or you notice particle sedimentation, it's a clear sign to replace it. The Mazda Atenza's design is quite reliable, but the manual explicitly requires regular coolant changes. I usually replace it during oil changes for convenience and efficiency. Remember, regular maintenance not only extends the engine's lifespan but also avoids the embarrassment of breaking down on the road.
