How to Replace the Coolant in a Lavida?
4 Answers
The method for replacing the coolant in a Lavida is as follows: 1. Unscrew the radiator cap, open the radiator drain valve, and drain the coolant; 2. Insert a rubber hose connected to a tap into the radiator filler neck; 3. Turn on the tap to allow tap water to continuously flow through the engine cooling system; 4. During the flushing operation, keep the engine idling until clear water flows out of the radiator; 5. Add the coolant to the radiator. The Lavida's front suspension is a MacPherson independent suspension, and the rear suspension is a torsion beam non-independent suspension. It is equipped with a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine, with a maximum horsepower of 112 PS, a maximum torque of 145 Nm, and a maximum power of 82 kW, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
I change the coolant in my Lavida every year to keep the engine running smoother. Before starting, prepare new coolant, gloves, and a bucket to catch the old fluid. First, ensure the engine has cooled for at least a few hours—never work on a hot engine to avoid burns. Open the hood and locate the radiator; in the Lavida, it's on the left side of the engine with a drain plug or hose. Use a wrench to slowly loosen the plug and drain the old fluid into the bucket, avoiding spills to prevent environmental contamination. After draining, you can rinse the inside with a hose for about 10 minutes to remove residue. Then, pour in the new coolant, following the manual's recommended ratio of roughly 50% water and 50% coolant. Add it slowly to avoid overflow. Start the car and run the heater at maximum for 5 minutes to purge air bubbles. Turn off the engine and check the fluid level—top up if it's below the midpoint. Changing coolant in winter is especially crucial to protect the engine from freezing and cracking. Doing this annually saves on major repair costs.
I've been driving Volkswagen cars for over twenty years, and changing the coolant is a regular task. The Lavida makes it simple: first, ensure the engine is cold and the car is parked steadily. Locate the drain outlet at the bottom of the radiator or remove the radiator plug to drain the old fluid, using a bucket to catch it. After emptying, you can optionally flush it, but avoid excessive water use. Choose a new coolant that's compatible with Volkswagen models—avoid off-brand products. Fill the radiator slowly to the top, then start the engine and turn the heater to high for a few minutes to circulate and remove air bubbles. Check for leaks. Once the fluid level stabilizes, close the cap. Not changing the coolant for too long can corrode internal pipes and damage the engine, making it prone to freezing in winter. Regular changes every two years ensure safety and save money. Doing it yourself cuts costs, but be cautious to avoid burns from hot fluid.
As a hands-on car owner, I often change the coolant for my Lavida myself. Prepare a new coolant bucket and a wrench, and operate after the car has cooled down. The radiator is located near the engine, find the drain hole at the bottom to release the old coolant into a bucket. After draining the old coolant, flush the interior to remove impurities and keep it clean. Pour in the new coolant, paying attention to the 50-50 mixing ratio—don’t get it wrong. Start the car, turn the heater to the highest setting to bleed air for a few minutes, then top up the coolant level to the normal line. Changing the coolant prevents winter freeze cracks and saves on repair costs.
