It is important to keep your vehicle’s engine cool. The radiator is the part that accomplishes this, but the radiator would not work without coolant. Keeping up with radiator and coolant maintenance is extremely important. It will make the difference between your engine overheating and running efficiently.
If you are wondering what coolant is and how to change it, you’ve come to the right article. Keep reading and we will give you all the information you need. Then when you are done, contact Ethan’s Honest Automotive to schedule your next coolant flush.
What is coolant?
Before discussing coolant flushes in detail, we should define what coolant is and what it does. Coolant is the liquid that goes into your radiator. Its function is to transfer heat and consequently cool your engine.
The coolant in most vehicles is a mixture of antifreeze and water. The antifreeze also ensures that the coolant doesn’t freeze, even in low temperatures. This is an especially important protection in northern winters.
Your owner’s manual will tell you what type of coolant you need. It will also indicate what ratio of antifreeze to water is preferred and if any other additives are needed.
What is a coolant flush?
Now that you know what coolant is, it is time to discuss the coolant flush. Essentially, a coolant flush is just the process of changing the coolant. The first step in a coolant flush is checking for any leaks. Your expert will determine there are no leaks, and then they will remove all of the coolants.
Once the coolant is removed from your system, your mechanic will eliminate the dirt, debris, rust, and sludge left behind. This ensures that your radiator system is as clean as possible before the new coolant is added.
Anyone can drain their coolant and add new. However, an expert must perform this task. While flushing your coolant, an expert can diagnose, fix, and stave off any problems with the entire system.
Signs you need a coolant flush
As a general rule, you should get your coolant flushed every 30,000 miles or five years. Your owner’s manual will also provide information about when to have your coolant flushed. There are a few signs that your coolant needs to be flushed, even if you are not at that threshold, though.
If you notice the following signs, bring your vehicle into Ethan’s for a coolant flush right away.
A leak. Antifreeze looks blue or orange. If you see a puddle of this color liquid below your vehicle, you likely have a coolant leak. It will require maintenance and a coolant flush to fix.
Overheating vehicles. When the coolant works less efficiently, it does not transfer heat as well. This can cause overheating in your engine. A coolant flush could be an easy solution to that problem.
A sweet smell. Antifreeze has a sweet smell, almost like syrup. If your engine begins burning antifreeze, it will release that smell into your vehicle. Smell something sweet, and you know it is time for a coolant flush.
Contact Ethan’s Honest Auto today to learn more about our coolant flush procedure.
