Coolant 101: What You Need to Know to Keep Your Engine Happy

Why is coolant important? 

Your car's engine is a complex machine with many moving parts that generate a lot of heat. Without coolant, the engine would quickly overheat, causing serious damage. Coolant acts as a heat transfer fluid, absorbing heat from the engine and carrying it away to the radiator, where it is released into the air. 

What is coolant made of? 

Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is typically a mixture of water and ethylene glycol or propylene glycol. These glycols have a lower freezing point and a higher boiling point than water, which helps to protect the engine from freezing in cold weather and

 overheating in hot weather. Coolant also contains additives that help to prevent corrosion, lubricate the water pump, and inhibit the growth of algae and other microbes. 

How often should I change my coolant? 

The recommended interval for changing coolant varies depending on the make and model of your car and the type of coolant used. However, most manufacturers recommend changing coolant every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or every 2 to 5 years. 

What are the signs that my coolant needs to be changed? 

There are a few signs that your coolant may need to be changed, including: 

• Low coolant level: If the coolant level in the reservoir is low, it may need to be topped off or changed. 

• Discolored coolant: Coolant that is rusty brown, milky, or has debris floating in it is a sign that it needs to be changed. 

• Sweet smell: A sweet smell coming from the engine compartment could be a sign of a coolant leak. 

• Overheating engine: If your engine is overheating, it could be a sign of a low coolant level or a problem with the cooling system. 

How do I change my coolant? 

While changing coolant is possible at home, it requires specific knowledge and tools to do it safely and correctly. Save yourself the hassle and potential for error! 

Schedule your coolant flush online or call us today to have our trained technicians take care of this for you. 

Our experts will: 

• Safely drain and dispose of your old coolant: Old coolant can be hazardous, and we'll make sure it's handled responsibly. 

• Thoroughly flush your cooling system: This removes any debris or rust that could cause problems down the line. 

• Refill with the correct coolant mixture: We'll use the right type of coolant for your vehicle and mix it to the proper concentration. 

• Check for leaks and other issues: Our technicians will inspect your entire cooling system to ensure everything is in top working order. 

Don't risk damaging your engine or dealing with messy spills. Leave it to the professionals and enjoy peace of mind knowing your car is in good hands.  

Coolant is essential for keeping your engine running smoothly and preventing costly repairs. By following the tips in this blog post, you can help to ensure that your engine stays cool and happy for many miles to come. 

Click here to schedule your appointment or call us at 513-427-5000. 

We look forward to helping you keep your engine happy! 

Avid Autocare