Will Long-Term Failure to Replace Coolant Cause Overheating?
2 Answers
Long-term failure to replace coolant can indeed cause overheating. Coolant replacement cycle: Vehicle coolant generally needs to be replaced every 2 years or 40,000 kilometers. This is just a reference cycle. For commercial vehicles with longer mileage, the replacement cycle should be shorter. Since driving conditions vary for each vehicle, the replacement should be based on actual usage. Regularly check the coolant level and replenish it promptly if it is insufficient. If suspended particles, sediment, discoloration, or deterioration are observed in the coolant, replace it immediately and clean the system. Coolant replacement method: Before completely replacing the coolant, 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 gets its name from having five connection points to different components. Coolant flows through this hose and is distributed to various parts of the vehicle. If there are signs of coolant leakage in this area, replace the hose or reseal the connections as needed. Drain the old coolant, then flush the fluid channels with clean water. Add clean water to the coolant reservoir and continue filling until water flows continuously through the engine cooling system. Start the engine and let it idle for 3 to 5 minutes to circulate the water. Initially, the drained water may appear slightly pinkish. Continue flushing until the water runs clear. Remember to remove the heater hose and drain the water from the heater core. After draining for about an hour, add new coolant through the radiator hose to allow it to flow quickly into the radiator. Then, pour another batch of coolant into the reservoir until it is nearly full. Run the engine for about 10 minutes. As air is purged from the cooling system, the fluid level will drop. Top up the coolant until it reaches the "MAXT" mark on the reservoir.
I used to drive a vintage car and didn't change the coolant for several years. One summer, the engine suddenly started smoking, and the temperature gauge shot straight into the red zone. The reason is that coolant isn't just for preventing freezing—it also inhibits corrosion and cleans the system. If left unchanged for too long, the additives lose effectiveness, leading to internal rust and sediment buildup, which clogs the radiator fins and water channels, preventing heat dissipation and causing the engine to overheat. The risk is even greater if you frequently drive on highways or tow heavy loads. Later, I spent thousands on repairs and had to replace the radiator. Now, I make sure to remind myself to change the coolant at least every two years, while also checking the fluid level and quality. Don't skimp on this small expense—it's heartbreaking when major repairs are needed. Overheating can also cause stalling, posing safety risks.
