Coolant how long does it last

After filling, make sure that the cap of the expansion tank is replaced and tightened. If the level is below the minimum line, top it up to the maximum line and monitor on a daily basis. Leaks can occur throughout the cooling system, and may cause serious problems, like overheating and engine damage, if left unattended. Cooling systems are pressurised, and by removing the fill cap when the engine is hot you run the risk of a serious burn.

But what exactly should you do when the temperature gauge starts to climb towards the red, indicating that the engine is overheating? If you notice the temperature gauge creep into the red, the first thing to do is switch off the air conditioning. Switching it off reduces the engine load, so things will cool down faster — an absolute essential in the summer. Turning the heaters to full will transfer heat away from the engine and into the cabin, which may not be very comfortable for you, but the engine will thank you.

Switch into neutral and rev the engine at about 1,RPM to get the cooling fan going. Therefore, manufacturers suggest replacing the coolant periodically. It is recommended you change coolant after the first , km , miles or months, then every 30, km 20, miles or 24 months. Keep in mind there is a possibility the coolant might leak from a worn reservoir. Such leakage can lead to cooling system failure and severe damage to your engine.

To avoid this, it is advised to regularly check whether the reservoir shows the proper coolant level or any signs of cracks. Store your old antifreeze in a secure, clearly labelled container and drop it off at an official recycling centre.

From here, it will be sent to a processing centre, where professionals will remove contaminants and recycle the chemicals for new products. Find out how to recycle old antifreeze here. If you have purchased antifreeze as a concentrate, rather than a pre-mixed coolant, it is safer to only mix the amount required for your top up with distilled water. Mix it as you use it to sustain its quality. Need to replace your antifreeze? Search your number plate in our car lookup tool to find all the coolants that are suitable for your vehicle.

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