Car coolant or antifreeze agent keeps the engine temperature under control. Coolant is an important component without which the temperature of the engine cannot be controlled. The high temperature of the engine may cause it a severe damage and break down. It is important to change the coolant twice a year to prevent the rusts and corrosion. Old coolant becomes contaminated with the passage of time and may result in blocking the coolant and radiator passages and damages the gaskets and seals. This will result in overheating and leaks. Coolant prevents the buildup silts in the cooling system which ensures the continuous flow of coolant.
Here below are given some of the steps which can help you to replace your coolant for proper functioning of the engine for long time.
Items Required
Following items are required to replace the coolant in your car:
- Drain pan
- Rag
Steps
1. Park the car and apply handbrakes. Open the front or engine hood. Make sure that the engine is cool; otherwise you may have burnt your hands.
2. Take out the radiator cap and with the help of finger check the coolant for certain impurities. If you feel anything solid between your fingers means there are some contaminants present in the coolant and you are required to replace or flush it.
3. Also examine the clamps and hoses of the radiator for possible leaks and rust.
4. Find the drain valve under the radiator.
5. Take a drain pan and place it under a drain valve and open the drain valve so that the old coolant has drain out of the cooling system.
6. Take the drain pan away from under the drain valve, once the coolant has drained out.
7. Take a garden hose and place it over the radiator. Spray water into the radiator until the clean water starts to come out from the bottom valve.
8. Wait for some time to let the water drain out completely. Replace the drain valve tightly.
9. Take equal amount of water and coolant and fill the cooling system up to the required mark.
10. Replace the radiator cap and switch on the engine. Leave it for some time until the thermostats turn on.
11. Again check the coolant level in the reservoir and if needed add more coolant to the cooling system. Be sure not to fill it more than the required level.
Suggestions & Tips
- Coolant or antifreeze agent may harm the paint of your vehicle, so wipe it off as soon as possible from the body.
- It is suggested to change the coolant twice every year for better performance of the cooling system.
- Keep coolant away from the reach of children. It may harm them.
Replacing a coolant and flushing the radiator is not a difficult task. But it is important to see vehicle manual for assistance and avoid any damage to you and your vehicle.