How to Replace Coolant in a Bora?
3 Answers
Loosen the drain valve at the bottom of the radiator to drain the old coolant. Then, add clean water to flush the system while running the engine until the fan starts spinning. Drain the water again until the outflow is completely clear. Finally, add the diluted new coolant until the fan starts spinning. Below is some relevant information about coolant: 1. Most coolants available on the market today are primarily made from ethylene glycol, with the addition of appropriate organic or inorganic salts for anti-corrosion and anti-rust purposes. 2. Generally, standard coolants can reach a freezing point of -40°C, while high-quality coolants should achieve around -60°C, which is an important indicator of coolant quality. 3. The boiling point of coolant: water boils at 100°C, whereas coolant should reach at least 108°C. This means the lower the freezing point and the higher the boiling point, the greater the temperature range, indicating better quality coolant.
Changing the coolant for my Bora is something I often DIY, and it's quite simple. First, make sure the car is completely cooled down—wait at least one or two hours, and never operate when the engine is hot to avoid burns. Then, locate the drain valve under the radiator, usually a plastic knob, and place a container underneath to catch the old coolant before disposing of it properly—be environmentally conscious and avoid pouring it into drains. Once drained, you can flush the cooling system with clean water, ensuring all water is expelled before adding new coolant. Fill the expansion tank first, start the engine, and let the water pump run for a few minutes to purge air bubbles. Finally, check the fluid level to ensure it reaches the standard mark. Remember to replace it every two years to maintain anti-rust and anti-freeze performance—neglecting this can shorten the engine's lifespan, and overheating issues can lead to costly repairs. Before starting, gather your tools and fresh coolant to ensure a smooth process.
Changing the coolant in a Bora isn't difficult. I've done it myself several times. Choose a good weather day to start. First, wait for the engine to cool down completely—it's best to leave it overnight. Then open the hood, locate the radiator drain plug, unscrew it, and slowly drain the old fluid into a large container for proper disposal. Remember, old coolant is toxic—never pour it into the environment. When flushing, use a soft hose to gently rinse the interior; avoid high-pressure water jets to prevent component damage. Afterward, add new coolant mixed with water according to the manual's ratio (usually 1:1). Pay attention to the expansion tank's level marks—don't overfill. Start the car and let it idle for a few minutes to purge air bubbles and check for leaks. Top up if the level drops. I recommend feeling the temperature changes by hand to ensure the system is functioning properly. Avoid long-distance driving immediately—test the car first.
