How to Replace Coolant in a Reiz?
3 Answers
Here are the steps to replace coolant in a Reiz: 1. Open the radiator drain valve at the bottom of the car. 2. Drain the old coolant. 3. Clean the cooling system. 4. After all water has drained out, close the drain valve and add new coolant. Below is extended information about coolant functions: 1. Prevents components from system failures or cracks due to cooling issues in cold weather. 2. Manages rust prevention and avoids pipe blockages caused by excessive scale buildup. 3. Provides anti-corrosion, anti-scale, anti-boil, anti-freeze, and anti-rust functions. 4. Coolant is harmless; when overfilled, it will expand due to heat during vehicle operation and overflow from the pressure relief valve.
I've been helping friends replace coolant for many years. For a Toyota like the Reiz, you must ensure the engine is completely cooled down—wait about half a day. Otherwise, hot liquid can spray out when you open the cap, which is dangerous and can cause burns. Prepare the necessary tools: a large plastic bucket to catch the old fluid, a wrench to loosen the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator, and make sure to use genuine Toyota-spec coolant—don’t skimp on quality. A funnel is also handy to prevent spills. The steps are: first, open the radiator cap at the top, then loosen the drain valve to let the old fluid flow out completely. Pay attention to the color—if it’s yellow or murky, it’s time for a change. Next, use a hose to briefly flush the system, but don’t overdo it to avoid diluting the new coolant. Close the drain valve, pour in the new coolant (a 50/50 mix is fine), filling it between the MAX and MIN lines. Start the engine for a few minutes, wait for the fan to kick in, and check if the fluid level stabilizes. If there are bubbles, gently shake the system to release them. I recommend changing it every two years or 30,000 km. The Reiz’s radiator is easily accessible, so regular maintenance helps prevent engine corrosion. The whole process can be done in a home garage, and the tools cost just a few dozen bucks.
My first time changing the coolant for my Reiz was a DIY learning experience - a bit nervous but actually quite simple. Pick a weekend and let the car cool down completely, ideally leaving it overnight for safety. I used an old washbasin as a container for the old fluid, bought Reiz-specific coolant online, and prepared a regular wrench and funnel. After opening the radiator cap, drain the fluid from the bottom screw, watching it flow out slowly until it runs clear, indicating it's almost done. Rinse the interior slightly with tap water but not too much, as it affects the mixture ratio. Then use the funnel to slowly add new coolant - pouring too fast will cause spills, so don't waste it. Start the engine and let it run for a while, standing by to observe the fluid level changes, topping up if it drops until it stabilizes. That time I saved money while learning a skill, and now I change it myself every two years, saving hundreds from garage visits. Also, remember to mix the new coolant according to the manual's ratio to protect the cooling system and extend the car's lifespan.
