How to Completely Replace Antifreeze?
2 Answers
Here are the detailed steps for completely replacing antifreeze: 1. First, conduct an inspection of the vehicle to check for any signs of leakage. If any leaks are found, they should be addressed promptly to avoid potential hazards caused by antifreeze leakage while driving. 2. Drain the remaining antifreeze. Insert a rubber hose connected to a water pipe into the radiator filler neck, then turn on the tap to allow a continuous flow of water through the engine cooling system. 3. After flushing, add new antifreeze. While adding antifreeze, continuously monitor the level to avoid overfilling, which could affect driving safety. Fill until the antifreeze reservoir is nearly full, then start the engine and let it run for 10 minutes. During this time, some air will be expelled from the cooling system, causing the fluid level to drop slightly. Add more antifreeze as needed to maintain the level between the min and max marks.
I'm an experienced driver who has driven dozens of cars and done complete coolant replacements many times. Why replace it all? Because old coolant can corrode the system and impair cooling efficiency, needing replacement every 2-3 years. First, ensure the engine is cool to avoid burns; then locate the drain valve or hose at the radiator bottom, open it to empty the old fluid—remember to catch it in a pan to prevent environmental contamination. Next, flush the system with clean water once or twice to remove impurities. The key is buying the correct coolant type, like ethylene glycol matching your car—never mix different colors. When adding new coolant, slowly fill the radiator, start the engine to circulate it and purge air bubbles, then check for stable fluid levels. Finally, test for leaks and tighten all caps. While DIY saves money, visit a repair shop if you lack tools to avoid clogged hose issues. Remember to wear gloves to protect your skin!
