What are the precautions for adding coolant to a car?

[IkerMarie]

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.

[DeFaith]

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.

[SanLeonardo]

When I first started handling coolant myself, I was all over the place. The lesson learned is that you must wait for the engine to cool down before working—hot radiators can easily scald your skin, which is truly dangerous. When selecting coolant, follow the manufacturer's recommended type and don't mix colors—for example, mixing green and red can cause chemical reactions that damage the pipes. Check the coolant level only when the engine is completely cold, as checking it when hot can lead to misjudgment. Pour it in steadily when adding to minimize bubble formation, which can affect performance, and wearing gloves is best for protection. After adding, don't rush to hit the road—start the engine briefly to check for any leaks. Regular coolant replacement is another key point: last time I delayed it too long, the cooling system rusted, leading to engine overheating and costly repairs. Keeping it simple with these steps ensures your car stays healthy.

[MacSamantha]

Key points for adding coolant: Ensure the engine is completely cooled before operation to prevent risks; Use matching fluid as specified in the manual, avoid mixing different types; Check the fluid level when cold and top up with dedicated liquid if insufficient; Add slowly to minimize bubbles; Check for leaks after operation. Regularly replace to maintain system functionality.