Should You Replace or Just Top Up When the Car's Coolant Is Low?
2 Answers
Whether to add or replace the car's coolant when it's low depends on different situations. If the coolant is still usable but insufficient, simply topping it up is sufficient; if the coolant is no longer usable and is insufficient, then it needs to be replaced. When selecting antifreeze, pay attention to the following points. Pay attention to the product's: The lower the freezing point, the better the antifreeze effect in extremely low-temperature environments. Currently, high-tech antifreeze can have a freezing point as low as minus forty-five degrees Celsius. Comprehensive anti-rust and anti-corrosion functions are key: The engine cooling system uses a variety of materials, including aluminum, copper, iron, steel, zinc, rubber, and plastic, with a service life of over ten years. However, many cars experience leakage and water seepage, all caused by inferior antifreeze. Good antifreeze can provide comprehensive protection for all materials, preventing such phenomena.
Just helped a friend with coolant issues a few days ago. Generally, you can simply top it up with the same type when it's low, unless the coolant has deteriorated or reached its replacement interval, then a full change is needed. Check the level in the overflow tank when the engine is cold; if it's below the minimum mark, add some. Never mix coolants of different colors, as the ethylene glycol and propylene glycol formulas can cause chemical reactions. Last time I was repairing a car, I found someone had mixed them, leading to radiator corrosion, and it ended up costing over 800 to replace the radiator. It's recommended to change the coolant every two years or 40,000 kilometers, and pay extra attention to antifreeze performance in northern winters. When topping up yourself, remember to clean the radiator cap area first, pour slowly using a funnel, and check the level again after driving for a while.
