Beware of the coolant

For a layman, car maintenance can be a huge puzzle, given the countless points to keep in mind. However, there are some more important than others, mainly due to the possible consequences, be they in relation to security or the wallet. Find more here: best antifreeze

In this case, we address a commonly overlooked point: the cooling system.

Today, combustion engines work at high temperatures. As such, they need a good cooling system. In this case, liquid cooling. In a very objective way, it is a closed circuit, which uses a liquid to keep the engine operating temperature within the safety values ​​provided by the manufacturers. As a general rule, around 90ºC.

Thanks to its composition, a good coolant does not reach boiling point at high temperatures or freeze at low temperatures. In addition, it prevents corrosion and does not foam.

Speaking of nodes in a closed circuit, losses are not supposed to occur. So, start by checking the coolant level - also known as antifreeze - in your car, by visualizing what is commonly known as an “expansion vessel”. But always with a cold engine. Never open the tank lid while the engine is hot, otherwise you will get burned, as the system is under pressure and operating at high temperatures! There, you will find a mark that marks the minimum level, which means that the level cannot, at any time, be below that mark. During this process, also check the consistency and color of the liquid. It cannot be thick and the color must be clear, pink, blue, yellow, green or orange.

This care is important for new cars, but it will have a greater weight in older cars and / or with higher mileage and, consequently, greater chance of having losses or deficiencies in the cooling system.

When should I replace the coolant?

Manufacturers usually say that the coolant has a very long life span, rarely having an expiration date. But this is not exactly true, as it varies a lot according to the composition of the liquid, or the engine where it is used. Therefore, in order to ensure that your car's cooling system is always safe, we recommend replacing it within three to five years.

What color should I use?

If you have been on any surface that sells coolant, you have certainly noticed that it is sold in different colors. No, it is not just an aesthetic issue, but related to the composition of the liquid and elements used in the manufacturing process, not least because the newer engines use different compounds than the older engines. As such, we always recommend that you first of all read your car's instruction manual so that you understand the type of liquid to use. Finally, look for a liquid that meets the standards required for your car's engine, regardless of the manufacturer of the liquid. If it is easier or you feel more secure, visit an official dealer and purchase the liquid.

Note that there are liquids for direct application and liquids that must be mixed with distilled or demineralized water. Never use mineral water!

Replacing the liquid at home

The process of changing the coolant is not a tremendously complicated task and can be done at home. However, please note that you need a place to deliver the old liquid.

With the engine cold, start by removing the lid of the expansion vessel and place a bucket or bowl under the vehicle, in order to collect the liquid that will be removed by the drainage area, placed at the bottom of the vehicle.

After all the liquid has been removed, fill the system with distilled water and start the engine for a few minutes. Then drain again. Repeat the process two to three times to ensure the removal of all impurities. At the end, refill with the new coolant, always taking into account the possible need to be mixed with distilled water.