How often should the vehicle's antifreeze be replaced?
3 Answers
Vehicle antifreeze generally needs to be replaced every 2 years or 40,000 kilometers, which is just a reference interval. For commercial vehicles with higher mileage, the replacement interval should be shorter. Since driving conditions vary for each vehicle, the replacement should be based on actual usage. Check the antifreeze level and replenish it promptly if it is insufficient. If suspended particles, sediment, or signs of deterioration or discoloration are found in the antifreeze, it should be replaced immediately, and the system should be cleaned. Antifreeze replacement method: Before completely replacing the antifreeze, conduct a thorough inspection to check for any leaks or cracks in the pipes, with a focus on the five-way hose. The five-way hose is named for its five connection points to various parts of the vehicle. The antifreeze flows through the five-way hose and is distributed to different parts of the car to function. If there are signs of antifreeze leakage in this section, replace the hose or reseal the connections as needed. Drain the old antifreeze, then flush the fluid channels with clean water. Add clean water to the antifreeze reservoir and continue filling 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 may have a faint pink tint. Continue adding clean water until the outflowing water is clear. Note: Remember to remove the heater hose and drain the water from the heater core. After draining for about an hour, add the new antifreeze through the radiator hose to allow it to flow quickly into the radiator. Then, add another container of antifreeze to the antifreeze 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 system. Top up the antifreeze to the "MAXT" mark on the reservoir.
I didn't know much about this before, but later the mechanic told me that coolant is like the blood of a car, usually needing replacement every 2 years or 30,000 kilometers. However, the most accurate reference is your vehicle's manual—my old Toyota specifies a change every two years. Pay attention to the small tank near the radiator; if the fluid appears dark, cloudy, or the level is too low, it's time for a change. Never mix coolants of different colors when replacing—last time, my neighbor mixed red and green, which clogged the entire cooling system and cost thousands in repairs. Friends in the north should be especially vigilant; if it freezes at -30°C in winter, the engine could be ruined outright.
As the lady of the house in charge of the car, my summarized experience is: If you don't change the coolant under these three conditions, trouble will arise! First, check the time—if it's been over two and a half years, it must be changed. Second, check the mileage—if the car has run 50,000 kilometers, regardless of how many years, it needs to be changed. Third, check the condition—open the engine hood and feel the lower hose; if it's unusually hard, it's time for a change. Last time, I noticed brown residue on the radiator cap, and the mechanic said it was due to the coolant failing and causing corrosion. Remember to have the repair shop test the freezing point—here in the northeast, we need to withstand -40°C, so the coolant should be labeled -45°C for peace of mind. Oh, and after changing it, keep the remaining half bottle in the trunk; long summer trips can easily lead to overheating.
