Car owners often ask themselves the question, “how often should engine coolant be changed?’ Before we answer that, let’s first answer the question, ‘What is a coolant?’ Coolant is used by modern cars and trucks in the place of water to regulate the temperature of the engine. Note the term ‘regulate’ is used instead of cooling as the name ‘coolant’ suggests. The reason for this is because, the engine requires to operate at an optimum temperature, not just a low temperature. A temperature below the optimum brings about inefficiency. A high temperature on the other hand would cause the engine to seize.
Coolant replaced water in the engine because of its anti-corrosive, and antifreeze properties that water didn’t have. Unlike water, however, coolant requires slight additional maintenance.
Should you change your coolant? Well, this depends on many things;
Condition of The Coolant
Just like the car’s Oil, It’s easy to know the condition of your coolant by just looking at it. Through the radiator cap, or by opening the reservoir tank. A darkened, dirty, slimy engine coolant definitely requires to be changed. Regularly checking the condition of your coolant will give you a correct idea of when you need to flush it out.
Type of Coolant.
Different types of coolants have the recommended mileage indicated on them. Most coolants, however, are due for change after a very high mileage that you wouldn’t worry about changing regularly. Some coolants are due for change at 50,000 mi, 150,000 mi, others even more.
Engine Trouble?
Always monitor your car’s temperature using the temperature gauge. Although overheating would be an effect of many things. An overheating car could be due to an ineffective coolant. If you notice consistently high temperatures then know that one of the things that might need to be changed is the coolant.
Personal Preference.
Some people operate with a personal rule of thumb and change the coolant after a given interval, or mileage. Well, A new coolant anytime wouldn’t be a bad idea for your engine. If you do not worry about the cost, and procedure that goes with changing the coolant. You can change the coolant using your preferred timeline.
Best Generic Coolants for Your Engine
1) Valvoline Multi-Vehicle 50/50 Prediluted Ready-to-Use Antifreeze
2) Zerex DEX-COOL Organic Acid Technology Concentrate Antifreeze/Coolant
3) Engine Ice TYDS008 High Performance Coolant
4) ACDelco 10-101 DEX-COOL Extended Life Coolant
Final Thoughts
The coolant is a crucial fluid in the effective working of your engine. Always consult your owner’s manual to identify the right coolant and change procedures for your specific car. Most cars and truck manufacturers prescribe their specific ‘branded Coolants.