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How to do a coolant change?

Published in Coolant Change Procedure 3 mins read

Changing your coolant is a crucial part of vehicle maintenance. Here's a breakdown of how to do it, based on the provided information:

Coolant Change Steps

Step Description
1 Ensure Engine is Off and Cooled Down: Turn off the engine and allow it to cool down completely.
2 Remove Radiator Cap: Take off the engine's radiator cap.
3 Drain Old Coolant: Drain the old coolant from the system.
4 Clean Cooling System: Clean the cooling system thoroughly.
5 Add New Coolant: Add the new coolant to the correct level.
6 Bleed the Cooling System: Bleed the cooling system to remove air pockets.

Detailed Steps and Considerations

While the table above outlines the basic steps, let's expand on each point:

  1. Safety First! (Engine Cool Down)

    • Never work on a hot engine. Coolant can be scalding. Allow ample time for the engine to completely cool down before proceeding.

  2. Removing the Radiator Cap

    • Before removing the cap, ensure the cooling system is not pressurized. A slow, careful release is best.
    • Inspect the cap for damage and replace if necessary. A faulty cap can impact cooling system performance.

  3. Draining the Old Coolant

    • Locate the radiator drain plug (usually at the bottom of the radiator).
    • Place a drain pan beneath the plug before opening it.
    • Properly dispose of the used coolant. It is toxic and harmful to the environment. Many auto parts stores accept used coolant for recycling.

  4. Cleaning the Cooling System

    • Consider using a radiator flush product to remove deposits and scale. Follow the product instructions carefully.
    • If flushing, ensure all the flushing solution is drained before adding new coolant.

  5. Adding New Coolant

    • Use the correct type of coolant specified in your vehicle's owner's manual. Mixing different types of coolant can lead to corrosion and damage.
    • Mix the coolant with distilled water, usually in a 50/50 ratio (but always refer to your vehicle's manual).
    • Pour the coolant slowly to avoid air pockets.

  6. Bleeding the Cooling System

    • Air pockets can cause overheating.
    • Many vehicles have bleed valves located on the engine or near the thermostat housing. Open these valves while filling the system to release trapped air.
    • Refer to your vehicle's repair manual for the specific bleeding procedure for your vehicle.
    • After filling and bleeding, monitor the coolant level and top off as needed over the next few days.

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