How to Open the Antifreeze Cap?
2 Answers
To open the antifreeze cap, follow these steps: After the vehicle has been parked for at least half an hour, cover the antifreeze cap with a towel, press down on the cap, and turn it counterclockwise with force. Antifreeze is a type of coolant that contains special additives, primarily used in liquid-cooled engine cooling systems. Its functions include: 1. Anti-corrosion; 2. High boiling point; 3. Prevention of scale buildup. The method for replacing antifreeze is as follows: 1. Wait for the engine to cool down, then open the car's hood; 2. Open the antifreeze reservoir cap; 3. Lift the vehicle and open the radiator drain plug to release the old antifreeze, then reinstall the drain plug; 4. Lower the vehicle and pour new antifreeze into the antifreeze reservoir.
After years of driving, the most important reminder I can give you is: safety first! When the car engine has just been turned off, don't rush to open the antifreeze cap. The pressure inside is high, and hot liquid can spray out and scald your skin. I've seen a friend accidentally get splashed, and it was really painful. Wait until the car has completely cooled down, at least half an hour, and make sure the engine bay isn't hot to the touch before you proceed. The cap is usually on the radiator, made of plastic, and marked with a coolant label. Turn it counterclockwise slowly, without using too much force to avoid damaging the threads or the seal. If the cap is stuck, it might be due to long-term rust or residual pressure—wait a bit longer or try using a cloth for grip. After opening the cap, check the antifreeze level. If it's below the mark, add more, but don't overfill. When closing, tighten it clockwise to ensure a proper seal. For regular driving, I recommend changing the antifreeze once a year to prevent system corrosion—it saves money and hassle in the long run.
