The engine coolant is like an antifreeze that plays a vital role in keeping your car running. This essential liquid regulates the engine’s temperature to avoid freeze-ups in winter and prevent overheating during the summer.
As is the case with any other liquid you use in your vehicle, even the coolant for cars degrades with time and loses its effectiveness. This makes oil and coolant change an imperative for every vehicle you see on the road.
But how do you change the car coolant, and when should you change it? If this question has been bugging you lately, then you are at the right place. This blog will explore the intricacies of coolant change service so that you can ensure your car runs smoothly. So, let’s get started!
When Do You Need To Change Engine Coolant?
The primary reason for changing the radiator coolant is that the liquid loses effectiveness over time. This prevents the liquid from running through the outer layer of the engine and through the radiator to pull heat from the engine and maintain the proper temperature.
Different signs might indicate that your car engine coolant is due for a change. Some of these signs include loud noises from under the car’s hood, a strange and sweet smell, and a burning smell from the car’s engine, indicating an overheating issue.
Besides that, if you notice that your car’s heater is not functioning properly or if there are leaks in the existing pipes and hoses, it might be time to change your car’s engine coolant.
How Do You Know If You Need To Change Engine Coolant?
In almost every car manual, you will regularly see the statement ‘change engine coolant’. But do you need that? Here’s a proper answer.
With most conventional cars today, you can quickly check the coolant to determine if it is still effective enough for the car cooling system. The overall process of checking the engine coolant is relatively easy, and here are some steps to help you out:
1. Check the coolant:
The first thing you need to do is ensure the car’s engine is cold. Then, you can check the engine coolant levels and even prepare a bucket to collect any slippage. You must remember that engine coolant is toxic, so make sure you do not have any pets or children nearby.
2. Take The Coolant Out:
Start twisting the radiator cap on the top and the drain plug at the bottom. The drain plug is generally a screw or bolt, and you can easily open it with the right tools or even manually. After opening the drain plug, let the coolant run and close it back off.
3. Replace the bucket below:
After the engine has cooled off, you must replace the bucket below and unscrew the drain plug. This will allow the petrol or diesel engine coolant to run, after which you must tighten the plug again.
4. Pour in The Radiator Flush Solution:
After opening the radiator cap, pour the radiator flush solution over the top with some water. Then, replace and tighten the radiator cap, start the engine, and keep it running for about five to ten minutes to enable the coolant to circulate.
Step-by-Step Guide on How To Change Engine Coolant
Now that you are familiar with checking the engine coolant level, it is time to start replacing it. You could look up a 24/7 mobile mechanic near me on the internet or do the entire process yourself. All you need to do is follow the following steps to get the job done:
Step 1: Prepare The Car
The first thing is to properly park the car with handbrakes on and ensure it is cold enough to avoid burns. Ensure you park the car flat and place it in the first gear to prevent it from moving.
Step 2: Remove The Older Coolant
Here, you will need to use a jack to raise the car’s front portion and remove any underbody shielding that might make it difficult to remove the drain valve. Then, find the drain valve under the car and place a container under the radiator to collect the coolant. Lastly, open the drain valve and allow the engine coolant to drain out properly.
Step 3: Clear The System
If your older engine coolant has seen better days, it is time to clear the system entirely. Drain away any remaining engine coolant to ensure a thorough engine fluid change.
Step 4: Fill in the Coolant
Now, you need to find the coolant reservoir and remove it before replacing it entirely. Then, you can close the drain valve and replace the coolant in the system. But make sure you only use the right coolant as the car’s manufacturer recommends. Sometimes, you might need to bleed the system to eliminate unwanted air pockets. Lastly, put the radiator cap back into place and tighten it to avoid any leakages.
Step 5: Verify and Check
Once you are done with changing the coolant, start the engine and let it run for a couple of minutes. This enables the coolant to circulate appropriately while allowing you to determine if there are any leakages. Also, verify the coolant level again and top it up if needed, but only after the radiator fan goes out.
Final Thoughts
Every car owner needs to change engine coolant to ensure the car can perform optimally. If these steps make sense to you, change the coolant yourself to save on the coolant change price. However, you can also look up ‘car coolant change near me’ and find experienced professionals to do the job.
The Mobile Mechanics Perth is one of those experienced teams of professionals who understand auto engine diagnostics better than most other things.
Our professionals offer a wide range of mobile mechanic services to ensure you get quick engine diagnosis Perth.
We will ensure that you get an affordable coolant change price with professional services.
