When is the Best Time to Replace Antifreeze?
1 Answers
Vehicle antifreeze generally needs to be replaced every 2 years or 40,000 kilometers. This is just a reference interval. For commercial vehicles with higher mileage, the replacement cycle should be shorter. Since driving conditions vary for each vehicle, the replacement should be based on actual usage. Check the antifreeze condition regularly—if it is insufficient, replenish it promptly; if suspended particles, sediment, or discoloration are observed, replace the antifreeze and clean the system immediately. Method for replacing antifreeze: Before a complete antifreeze replacement, conduct a thorough inspection to check for leaks or cracks in all pipes, with particular attention to the five-way hose. The five-way hose, named for its five connecting interfaces to different parts, distributes antifreeze to various sections of the car after flowing through it. If antifreeze leakage is detected in this section, replace the hose or reseal the connections as needed. Drain the old antifreeze and flush the fluid channels with clean water. Add water to the antifreeze reservoir and continuously flush the engine cooling system. Then, let the engine idle for 3 to 5 minutes to circulate the water. Initially, the water flowing out will have a faint pink tint. Continue adding clean water until the outflow is clear. Remember to remove the heater hose and drain the heater water completely. About an hour after draining, add new antifreeze through the radiator hose to allow quick flow into the radiator. Then, fill the antifreeze reservoir with another bottle of antifreeze until it is nearly full. Start the engine and let it run for about 10 minutes. As some air is expelled from the cooling system, the fluid level will drop. Top up the antifreeze to the "MAXT" mark on the reservoir.
