What are the precautions for adding coolant to a car?
2 Answers
When adding coolant to a car, it is necessary to ensure that the liquid level is between MIN and MAX, and the old coolant should be completely drained to avoid mixing. Below is relevant information about coolant: 1. Introduction: Coolant, fully known as antifreeze coolant, refers to a coolant with antifreeze function. Antifreeze can prevent the coolant from freezing and cracking the radiator or damaging the engine cylinder block during cold seasons when the car is parked. 2. Composition: Coolant consists of three parts: water, antifreeze, and additives. According to the different components of antifreeze, it can be divided into alcohol type, glycerol type, ethylene glycol type, and other types of coolant.
I've been adding coolant for over ten years, and the most crucial step is to wait until the engine is completely cool—letting it sit for two to three hours or overnight after parking is the safest approach to avoid steam burns from opening the cap while hot. Always choose the correct coolant type by checking your vehicle manual for recommended specifications like color and model, and avoid mixing different brands or using tap water, as chemical reactions can corrode the radiator or clog pipes. Before adding, inspect the expansion tank level when the engine is cold; if it's below the MIN line, top it up with fresh coolant, stopping near the MAX mark to avoid overfilling. Pour slowly and steadily to prevent air bubbles that can reduce cooling efficiency. Afterward, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes, checking under the chassis and at connections for any leaks. Remember, coolant isn't lifetime fluid—I replace mine entirely every two years to prevent rust buildup that can cause overheating issues. This routine keeps the engine durable and driving worry-free.
