Coolant

Everyone changes the oil quite systematically, but few people remember about replacing the fluid in the cooling system.

Car maintenance is expensive, so drivers limit the amount of inspections. And this fluid has a huge impact on the durability of the engine and cooling system.

Maintenance of the cooling system is often limited to checking the fluid level and pour point. If the level is correct and the freezing point is low, many mechanics stop there, forgetting that the coolant has other very important properties. They also contain, among other things, anti-foam and anti-corrosion additives. Their service life is limited and over time they cease to function and protect the system. The time (or mileage) after which the replacement performed depends on the vehicle manufacturer and the fluid used. If we ignore a fluid change, we may incur high repair costs. Corrosion can damage the water pump, cylinder head gasket, or radiator.

Currently, some companies (for example, Ford, Opel, Seat) do not plan to change the fluid throughout the life of the vehicle. But it won't hurt even in a few years and, for example, 150 thousand. km, replace the fluid with a new one.

Important pour point

Most coolants produced today are based on ethylene glycol. The pour point depends on the proportion in which we mix it with distilled water. When buying a liquid, pay attention to whether it is a ready-to-drink product or a concentrate to be mixed with distilled water. In our climate, the concentration is more than 50 percent. this is not necessary, since with such proportions we get a freezing point of about -40 degrees C. A further increase in the concentration of the liquid is not necessary (we only increase costs). Also, do not use a concentration of less than 30%. (temperature -17 degrees C) even in summer, as there will be no adequate anti-corrosion protection. Coolant replacement is best entrusted to a service center, because a seemingly simple operation can be complicated. Plus, we don't have to worry about what to do with the old fluid. Fluid change is not only that it protrudes from the radiator, but also from the engine block, so you need to find a special screw, often hidden in a labyrinth of various fixtures. Of course, the aluminum seal should be replaced before screwing it in.

Not only liquid

When changing the fluid, you should also think about replacing the thermostat, especially if it is several years old or tens of thousands. km of run. Additional costs are small and should not exceed PLN 50. On the other hand, coolant replacement usually costs between PLN 50 and 100 plus the cost of the coolant – between PLN 5 and 20 per litre.

Most cooling systems do not require ventilation as the system removes the air itself. After cooling, it remains only to top up the level. However, some designs require a ventilation procedure (vents near the head or on a rubber tube) and must be performed according to the manual.

Coolant change frequency in favorites currently produced vehicles
Ford	not exchanged
Honda	10 years or 120 km
Opel	not exchanged
Peugeot	5 years or 120 km
Seat	not exchanged
Skoda	5 years unlimited mileage