How to Replace Car Coolant?
4 Answers
The method for replacing car antifreeze is as follows: 1. Unscrew the radiator cap and open the radiator drain valve, usually located at the bottom of the car, to drain the antifreeze. 2. Clean the engine cooling system by continuously injecting clean water into it. During the flushing process, keep the engine idling to ensure the circulation of clean water inside until clear water flows out from the radiator. 3. Stop adding clean water, wait for it to drain completely, and then close the drain valve. 4. Add new antifreeze until the liquid level reaches between the max and min water level marks. 5. Replace the cap, start the car, and let the engine idle for two to three minutes. The cooling system will expel internal air, causing the antifreeze level to drop slightly. At this point, add more antifreeze as needed.
I think changing car coolant is quite simple. I do it myself every two years. First, turn off the engine and wait for about an hour to ensure it's completely cooled down, otherwise you might get badly burned. Then put on gloves, locate the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator, unscrew it to let the old fluid drain into a bucket. Sometimes the old fluid is very dirty, so I flush the system with water, but don't use tap water - distilled water works best. After cleaning, pour in the new coolant, making sure the mixing ratio is correct - usually 50% antifreeze and 50% water. I prefer using pre-mixed coolant for convenience. After filling, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to remove air bubbles, then check if the fluid level is normal. Don't forget to wipe off any spills and put away your tools. The whole process takes at most half an hour - it's safe and saves money.
I was quite nervous the first time I learned to change the coolant, but just follow the steps. First, park the car and let the engine cool for at least an hour—don't rush, safety comes first. Locate the radiator or the adjacent reservoir, open the cap, then find the small drain plug at the bottom of the radiator and unscrew it to drain the old fluid. It's best to use a large container to catch it and avoid making a mess. If the fluid is dark or has sediment, you can flush the inside with clean water. After flushing, reseal the drain plug, then pour in the new coolant—don't pour too quickly. Next, take a short drive to let the system circulate and purge air. Once parked, check the fluid level to see if it needs topping up. Remember to inspect the coolant condition annually, as degraded coolant can easily corrode engine components.
Changing coolant is no trivial matter, I always emphasize the details. First, wait for the engine to cool completely to prevent accidents. When draining the old fluid, ensure all residues are completely removed, otherwise it will affect the performance of the new fluid. Flushing the system is crucial, especially for older vehicles; using a dedicated flushing agent ensures a more thorough clean. Choosing the right type of coolant is essential—for example, organic acid types are more durable. The mixing ratio must strictly follow the manual, as incorrect proportions can lead to freezing or boiling. After adding new coolant, don't forget to run the engine to expel air bubbles—too much foam can impair cooling. The tools needed are simple: gloves, a bucket, and a funnel are sufficient. Beginners are advised to consult a repair shop for free guidance.
