When is the best time to add antifreeze?
2 Answers
Antifreeze should be added when the level is below the standard mark, filling up to the "MAXT" line on the reservoir. Antifreeze is a coolant containing special additives, primarily used in liquid-cooled engine cooling systems. It offers excellent performance in preventing freezing in winter, boiling in summer, and protecting against scale and corrosion year-round. Method for replacing antifreeze: Before completely replacing the antifreeze, conduct a thorough inspection to check for any leaks or cracks in the pipes, with a focus on the five-way hose. The five-way hose is named for its five connections to different parts of the engine. Antifreeze flows through the five-way hose and is distributed to various parts of the car to function. If there is any leakage of antifreeze in this section, replace the hose or reseal the connections as needed. Drain the old antifreeze, then flush the channels with clean water. Add clean water to the antifreeze reservoir and continue filling until water flows continuously through the engine cooling system. Then, start the engine and let it idle for 3 to 5 minutes to circulate the water. Initially, the water coming out of the reservoir will be slightly pinkish. Continue adding clean water until the outflow is clear. Remember to disconnect the heater hose and drain the water from the heater. About an hour after draining, add the new antifreeze through the radiator hose to allow it to flow quickly into the radiator. Then, add another container of antifreeze to the reservoir until it is nearly full. Start the engine and let it run for about 10 minutes. During this time, the coolant level will drop as air is purged from the system. Top up the antifreeze again, filling up to the "MAXT" line on the reservoir.
As a seasoned driver, I must remind you to top up coolant when the engine is cold. Never open the radiator cap immediately after highway driving – boiling coolant can spray out and scald your skin! Check the overflow tank under the hood – if the level is below the MIN mark, it's time for a refill. Before winter hits up north, consider a complete coolant replacement, especially for cars over three years old. Last winter, my neighbor's SUV had its radiator cracked at -20°C due to degraded coolant, costing over 3,000 yuan in repairs. Some extended-life coolants now last five years, but testing the freezing point annually before winter is safer. Important note: Always match coolant colors – mixing green and red types causes gel formation that can completely clog your cooling system!
