When Should the Coolant Be Replaced for the First Time in a New Car?
2 Answers
For a new car, the coolant should be replaced for the first time after two years or 40,000 kilometers. Coolant prevents the freezing of the liquid in the cooling system during cold winter parking, which could otherwise cause the radiator to crack and damage the engine cylinder block. Coolant is a specially formulated liquid used primarily in liquid-cooled engine cooling systems. It offers excellent performance features such as preventing freezing in winter, boiling over in summer, and protecting against scale and corrosion year-round. Taking its anti-corrosion function as an example: engines and their cooling systems are made of metals like copper, iron, aluminum, steel, and solder. These metals, when exposed to water at high temperatures over time, can corrode and rust. Coolant not only avoids causing corrosion to the engine cooling system but also provides anti-corrosion and rust-removal functions.
First coolant replacement time for a new car. Having driven several cars, I generally think it's best to assess the situation after three years. The coolant in new cars from the factory is long-life and can last over five years, but in actual driving, regular checks are necessary. I make it a habit to pop the hood every year to check the coolant level and color—if it's clear and bright blue, it's still good; if it's cloudy or dark, it's time for a change. Last year, my family's SUV almost overheated on the highway due to failed coolant. Since that lesson, I've been more careful to develop good habits even during the new car phase: safe for the first two years, then check the pH level around three years, or else neglect could damage the engine. Overall, the manual suggests replacement every three to five years—don't delay, or minor issues could turn into major repairs.
