How to Replace Coolant?
2 Answers
Steps to replace coolant: 1. Drain the coolant by lifting the vehicle and unscrewing the drain plug at the bottom to allow the coolant to flow out; 2. Place a basin under the vehicle to catch the coolant, then start the engine and let it idle for 2 to 3 minutes to ensure complete drainage; 3. Clean the cooling system by inserting a rubber hose into the radiator filler neck and flushing it with water. Turn on the heater to circulate the water throughout the cooling system until the outflow becomes clear; 4. Turn off the engine, close the radiator drain plug, and add new coolant through the filler neck. Open the reservoir cap and add coolant up to the MAX mark; 5. Start the engine to allow the cooling system to expel air, which will lower the coolant level. Continue adding coolant until it reaches the MAX mark again; 6. Secure the filler cap and close the engine hood.
I've changed the coolant myself several times before, and it feels quite simple, plus it saves money. The key is to patiently wait for the engine to completely cool down—never operate when the engine is hot, or the hot steam could cause burns. Locate the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator or coolant reservoir, gently loosen it with a wrench, and let the old fluid drain into a container. After draining, flush the interior with water to remove any residue. Then, pour the new coolant into the expansion tank up to the specified fill line—don’t overfill or underfill. It’s best to use the coolant type recommended in the vehicle’s manual to avoid chemical reactions from mixing different brands. Once everything is done, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to check if the coolant level stabilizes without any leaks. If the process goes smoothly, it can be completed in just over an hour—great for honing DIY skills while avoiding mechanic labor costs. Definitely worth a try!
