How to Determine Whether Coolant Needs to Be Replaced
2 Answers
Here are the methods to determine whether coolant needs to be replaced: 1. If the temperature gauge is normal, the coolant does not need to be replaced; 2. If the coolant reservoir is low on coolant, simply top it up; 3. If the engine temperature is high, drain the existing coolant, flush the radiator, and then refill with new coolant. Additional information: 1. The coolant in the vehicle's engine radiator is generally replaced every two years or every 40,000 kilometers traveled. Taxis should be replaced more frequently. When adding coolant, ensure the product is within its validity period. When replacing, drain all the old coolant, thoroughly clean the cooling system, and then refill with new coolant. 2. When the coolant level is low, use the same brand and model of coolant to top it up. Coolant is an indispensable part of a car engine. It circulates within the engine cooling system, carrying away excess heat generated during engine operation, allowing the engine to operate at normal working temperatures. When the coolant level is insufficient, the engine temperature will rise excessively, potentially causing damage to engine components. Once the owner notices insufficient coolant, it should be promptly topped up.
As a veteran driver with over a decade of car ownership experience, I believe the simplest way to determine whether coolant needs replacement is through routine observation. Every time I change the engine oil, I pop open the hood and carefully inspect the coolant in the expansion tank. Color is crucial – if the originally vibrant blue-green hue turns grayish-brown or becomes cloudy, it's definitely deteriorated and needs replacement. I also make it a habit to gently touch the tank cap with the back of my hand to test the temperature. If it's abnormally hot or the fluid level drops too quickly, it indicates poor cooling performance. Sniffing for odors works too – strange or foul smells are signs of deterioration. Don't forget to check maintenance records; generally, coolant should be replaced every two years or 30,000 kilometers. Delaying replacement can lead to internal engine corrosion or even overheating breakdowns, which would double repair costs. My personal advice is to act early – maintaining your car's health ensures driving safety.
