Answers to your coolant flush questions

Taking care of your car can be tricky. When a light comes on on your dashboard or a mechanic tells you that you need a new service, it can raise a lot of questions. One common source of maintenance confusion is coolant flushing. Luckily, Chapel Hill Tire is here to help. Here are the answers to all your common coolant flush questions. 

Is it really necessary to flush the coolant?

Perhaps the most common question related to this service is: “Is a coolant flush really necessary?” Short answer: yes.

Your engine creates friction and heat in order to work properly. However, your engine is also made of metal parts, which are malleable and vulnerable to heat. Extreme heat can cause a radiator to explode, a cracked head gasket, cylinder warping and seal melting, and many other serious, dangerous, and costly problems. To protect your engine from this heat, your radiator contains a coolant that absorbs excess heat. Over time, your coolant wears out, burns out, and becomes contaminated, causing it to lose its cooling properties. While you may not like the news that you are due for additional service, a coolant flush is essential for a safe and serviceable vehicle. 

Is coolant important in cold weather?

As fall and winter temperatures approach, you may be more and more tempted to ignore coolant maintenance. Does coolant matter in cold weather? Yes, the friction and power of your engine generates heat all year round. While summer temperatures certainly increase engine heat, coolant is still incredibly important in winter. In addition, the coolant contains antifreeze, which will protect your engine from the dangers of freezing temperatures. 

What is the difference between coolant and radiator fluid?

When reading a user manual or various resources on the Internet, you may find that the terms "coolant" and "radiator fluid" are used interchangeably. So are they one and the same? Yes! Radiator fluid and coolant are different names for the same material. You may also find it as "radiator coolant" which offers the best of both worlds.  

Is coolant the same as antifreeze?

Another common question drivers ask is, “Is antifreeze the same as coolant?” No these two are not quite same. Rather, coolant is the substance used to regulate the temperature of your engine. Antifreeze is a substance in your coolant that prevents freezing in winter. You can find some sources that mention the coolant as having only cooling properties; however, since coolant often contains antifreeze, the term has become widely used as a general term covering both. 

How often is a coolant flush required?

Generally speaking, a coolant flush is often needed every five years or 30,000-40,000 miles. However, the frequency of coolant flushing can be affected by driving style, local climate, vehicle age, make and model, and other factors. Consult your owner's manual or local technician to see if you need to flush with coolant. 

Also, you can look for signs that your coolant needs to be flushed. These include the smell of sweet maple syrup in the car and the car's engine overheating. Check out these and other signs that your coolant needs to be flushed here. 

How much does a coolant flush cost?

Many mechanics try to hide their prices from customers, which can lead to questions, confusion, and unpleasant surprises. While we can't speak to the costs you'll run into at other auto shops, Chapel Hill Tire offers transparent pricing for every coolant flush and other services. Our coolant flushes cost $161.80 and include safe disposal of contaminated fluid, professional rust and sludge removal from your cooling system, high quality new coolant, coolant conditioner to preserve coolant, and a visual inspection of all your equipment. cooling system. 

Chapel Hill Tire: Local Coolant Flush

When it's your next coolant flush, visit one of Chapel Hill Tire's eight factories in the Triangle area, including our mechanics in Raleigh, Durham, Carrborough and Chapel Hill. Our professionals will help you drive comfortably by filling you with fresh coolant and setting you on your way. Sign up for a coolant flush today to get started!

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