How often should the coolant in the Volkswagen Lavida be replaced?
2 Answers
Lavida coolant generally needs to be replaced every 2 years or 60,000 kilometers. Below is extended information: 1. Hazards of not replacing coolant for a long time: Long-term failure to replace coolant will cause changes in its quality, reducing its anti-rust properties. This can damage components such as radiators and pipes, affect boiling and freezing point parameters, and impact the antifreeze or cooling performance. 2. Blackened coolant: This indicates that the coolant has deteriorated and may damage the pipes. During each maintenance service, a refractometer can be used to check the freezing point of the coolant. 3. Characteristics of coolant: Coolant (containing ethylene glycol) has a freezing point that varies with the concentration of ethylene glycol in the aqueous solution. When the concentration is below 59%, the freezing point decreases as the ethylene glycol concentration increases. When the concentration exceeds 59%, the freezing point rises with increasing ethylene glycol concentration. At 100% concentration, the freezing point rises to -13 degrees, which is why concentrated coolant cannot be used directly.
I've been driving a Volkswagen Lavida for over a decade, and the coolant replacement interval is a frequently asked question. According to the Volkswagen manual, the Lavida's coolant should generally be replaced every two years or 40,000 kilometers. Personally, I make it a habit to check it before every Chinese New Year, as winter conditions make it more critical. Coolant isn't just for antifreeze protection—it also prevents engine corrosion. When it expires, its color changes from vibrant to cloudy, or sediment may accumulate inside. If you don't replace it in time, prolonged use can lead to radiator corrosion and leaks, and in summer, the engine might overheat and break down. I always go to a repair shop for replacement—a new bottle of coolant plus labor costs just over 100 yuan, and the engine runs much quieter afterward. Remember to regularly check the coolant level; if it's below the standard line, top it up temporarily with purified water, but don't delay proper maintenance for too long.
