ANSWERS: 1
  • I change mine every 2 years just before that winter. But do keep in mind antifreeze isn’t just antifreeze, it is coolant. Coolant can become acidic. There are ph level tests available at your local parts store; they are much like a litmus test piece of stick paper. The color of the stick (after being dipped in coolant) when compared to the legend on the side of the bottle will tell you the true condition of the coolant. Always be sure to do a good flushing via the heater hoses to keep your heater core clear of debris. Nothing worse then having a heater core go in the winter. Drop that bottom radiator hose when you drain too. I like to run clean water through a few times and drop the hose every time, go until the water is clean, you can use chemicals available at the parts store to assist in cleaning extra dirty systems. Sealers like “alumni seal” tablets are a very common practice after flushing and installing new coolant. Most auto manufacturers actually use them in brand new cars. Just try not to use them repeatedly. If you do develop a bad leak anywhere have it looked at by a trustworthy mechanic. Overall flushing is very easy and good practice. But I always add alumni seal tablets afterward. One more issue I want to stress. This is CRITICAL!!!!! Be certain that every time you open the cooling system “ANYWHERE” (even at a hose) that the pressure is relieved first. Let the car cool enough so you do not get BURNED. There are many serious and sometimes disfiguring accounts of people being burnt doing this very thing. If you feel uneasy about doing this at any point consult a mechanic. But I do recommend that you ask them how the flush is done, and if any sealer can be added afterward so you don’t double up. PS: every other flush (approx 4 years) change all of your hoses. Cheap insurance.

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