When Should Car Antifreeze Be Replaced?
2 Answers
Car antifreeze should be replaced approximately every 2 years or 40,000 kilometers. The specific replacement interval should be determined based on the vehicle's usage condition. The full name of car antifreeze is antifreeze coolant, and its functions are: 1. To provide freeze protection for the engine against low-temperature environments; 2. To prevent the coolant from freezing and cracking the radiator or damaging the engine cylinder block and cylinder head when the car is parked in cold winter conditions; 3. To provide efficient heat dissipation. The steps for replacing antifreeze are: 1. Unscrew the radiator cap to drain the old antifreeze; 2. With the engine idling, inject clean water until clear water flows out of the radiator; 3. After all the water has drained, close the drain valve; 4. Refill with new antifreeze until the liquid level is between the MAX and MIN marks; 5. Replace the cap and let the engine idle for two to three minutes.
I've been driving for over a decade and know not to take antifreeze lightly. It's best to change it every two to three years, especially when driving more in summer. Checking for color changes is crucial – if the fluid turns black or becomes cloudy, it's a warning sign. The engine relies on it for cooling, and overheating can lead to big trouble, from breakdowns to major repairs. I learned the hard way when I delayed changing it for half a year, and my car suddenly started smoking on the road, costing me thousands in repairs. Just take a quick look during regular maintenance – it's easy and gives peace of mind. Remember, problems are more likely in high-temperature areas, so it's advisable to schedule changes in spring or autumn. Following the vehicle manual is always the right move.
