How to Determine if Antifreeze Needs to Be Replaced?
2 Answers
Generally, antifreeze coolant is replaced based on mileage and age. So, how can you determine the aging level of antifreeze to decide when to replace it? The answer is an antifreeze freezing point tester. By taking a sample of the coolant from the car and placing it into the refractometer prism of the tester, professionals can observe the actual freezing point of the coolant to determine if it deviates from the manufacturer's specified freezing point. If the actual freezing point is too high, it indicates that the coolant has aged and needs to be replaced. If the actual freezing point does not deviate much from the recommended value, replacement is generally unnecessary. In addition to checking the freezing point, it's also important to observe whether the antifreeze appears cloudy or contains flocculent matter, as these are signs of aging and indicate that the antifreeze needs to be replaced. Have you learned how to determine if antifreeze needs to be replaced?
I've seen many cars fail due to coolant issues. When deciding whether to replace it, it's best to first check for color changes. New coolant is typically bright green or pink, but when it turns cloudy or dark, it means the internal additives are depleted and can no longer protect the engine from rust and corrosion. Regularly measuring the freezing point with a tester is also crucial; a simple tool allows you to do this in just a few minutes. If the freezing point is subpar, the coolant can easily freeze in harsh winters. It's recommended to replace the coolant every two years or around 20,000 kilometers, but always refer to the owner's manual. Additionally, if you notice the coolant level dropping rapidly, detect a sweet-smelling leak, or experience frequent engine overheating with no heat from the heater, these are all signs it's time for a change. Simple routine maintenance can save you from costly repairs and extend your engine's lifespan by decades.
