Is it normal to add coolant once a year?
2 Answers
It is not normal. Coolant is generally replaced every two years or every 40,000 kilometers driven. Properly replacing the car coolant can provide better protection while driving. When replacing, the old coolant should be completely drained, the cooling system should be thoroughly cleaned, and then new coolant should be added. It is recommended to go to a professional 4S shop for replacement. Precautions for using car coolant: 1. Use coolant year-round: During vehicle use, it is important to use coolant consistently throughout the year, maintaining continuity in its use. Many car owners only think of using coolant in winter, which is a very mistaken idea. They only know about the antifreeze function of coolant but overlook its anti-corrosion, anti-boiling, and anti-scaling effects. 2. Choose coolant based on the environment: Car owners should select coolant with different freezing points according to their daily driving environment. The freezing point of the coolant should be at least 10°C lower than the lowest temperature in the region to avoid losing its antifreeze effect and affecting normal vehicle use. 3. Do not mix coolants: When adding car antifreeze, coolants of different brands and properties should not be mixed to prevent chemical reactions that could damage their comprehensive anti-corrosion capabilities. Leftover coolant should be labeled on the container to avoid mistakes during use. 4. Understand the properties of coolant: Car owners need to understand the properties of the coolant when purchasing it. If purchasing concentrated coolant, such as ethylene glycol-based concentrated coolant, an appropriate amount of pure water can be added in proportion to prepare coolant suitable for the local temperature conditions.
When I first started driving my car, I had to top up the coolant every year, which I thought was pretty normal. But later, I realized it was a bigger issue. Coolant primarily protects the engine from overheating and prevents freezing. Under normal circumstances, it shouldn’t deplete so quickly. If you only need to add a small amount once a year, it might still be considered normal, especially in cold weather when evaporation can accelerate. However, if you’re adding a lot each time, there’s likely a leak somewhere—perhaps a loose radiator connection or a failing water pump seal. Nowadays, I check the coolant level every few months to ensure it stays between the minimum and maximum marks, avoiding breakdowns on long trips. Regular replacement is also crucial, typically every two to five years, to prevent impurities from clogging the system. In short, don’t just rely on topping up the coolant—have a mechanic inspect the entire system during maintenance. Safety first.
