Coolant Service: Auto Maintenance For Your Engine

We all know that regular maintenance is key to maintaining and prolonging our vehicle’s life. One aspect of routine auto maintenance is a periodic coolant service for the cooling system. A qualified technician will check your vehicle’s antifreeze level during this service. Additionally, they test the coolant for acidity. If the acid level is too high, the technician performs a coolant flush to remove and replace all the old fluid. This simple procedure helps keep the engine protected from corrosion and extreme temperatures.

What Does Auto Coolant Do?

Coolant, sometimes called antifreeze, is a specially formulated liquid that helps regulate your engine’s temperature. It is a mixture of ethylene or propylene glycol and water. It also contains additives that inhibit rust and corrosion in the cooling system. The primary functions of coolant include:

• Dissipate Heat: Your engine generates significant amounts of heat. The auto coolant absorbs this heat and carries it away from the engine. This helps prevent engine overheating and maintain optimal operating temperatures.

• Freeze Protection: During cold weather, the antifreeze properties of the coolant prevent the vehicle’s engine from freezing. A frozen engine not only impairs its functionality but is also a very costly replacement.

• Corrosion Prevention: Coolant contains additives that protect the radiator and heater core from rust and corrosion. This ensures the longevity of these vital parts and maintains their efficiency.

• Lubrication: Antifreeze helps lubricate various engine parts, such as the water pump seals. This helps reduce friction and wear, extending the life of these components.

5 Benefits of An Auto Coolant Flush

Over time, coolant fluid becomes contaminated with dirt, rust particles, and other debris. Additionally, the anti-corrosive additives gradually break down, reducing their effectiveness. A routine auto coolant flush by a certified technician provides many benefits:

• Prevent Overheating: As engine coolant ages and becomes contaminated, its ability to absorb and dissipate heat decreases. A regular coolant flush helps maintain the proper heat transfer capacity, preventing overheating and potential engine damage.

• Maintain Corrosion Protection: Old coolant causes rust and corrosion to develop within the cooling system. This can result in clogged radiator tubes, heater core blockages, and fluid leaks. Replacing the coolant ensures the corrosion inhibitors are at their optimum levels, protecting the cooling system from damage.

• Extend Component Life: Antifreeze keeps the engine cool and lubricates internal components. As the fluid ages, it loses its lubricating properties. Fresh antifreeze provides adequate lubrication to maintain a healthy engine.

• Preserve Freeze Protection: As coolant ages, it becomes less effective at preventing the cooling system components from freezing. Fresh coolant safeguards your vehicle from potential engine damage caused by freezing.

• Manufacturer Warranty: Vehicle manufacturers recommend coolant service and flushes based on mileage and time intervals. Following these recommendations upholds your vehicle’s warranty. Additionally, it maximizes engine performance and ensures a well-working cooling system.

When To Schedule Coolant Service

The recommended interval for coolant service can vary depending on the vehicle manufacturer and type of coolant used. Owner’s manuals recommend a coolant service every 2-5 years or every 30,000-50,000 miles. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or check with a qualified mechanic to determine the specific interval for your automobile.

If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time to schedule a coolant service:

• Rusty or discolored coolant: Typically, antifreeze is a neon yellow or green color. But, depending on your make/model vehicle, it can also be red, orange, pink, blue, turquoise, or purple. Never mix different colors or types of coolant together. Contaminated coolant often appears rusty, discolored, or murky. This is a clear sign that it needs testing and possibly replacing.

• Coolant leaks or low coolant levels: Coolant puddles under your vehicle or low coolant levels indicate a leak. Since auto coolant is highly toxic, clean up all leaks immediately and schedule a coolant service.

• Engine temperature fluctuations: Schedule a coolant service if your engine runs hotter than usual or experiences temperature fluctuations. 

Choose A Qualified Repair Shop

Since 1979, Fisher’s Auto Service Inc., has provided quality service in Kirkland, WA. We are proud to be both an ATI and ASE-certified automotive shop. Our technicians specialize in imported & American SUV, truck, and car models. We look forward to helping you with all your auto maintenance and cooling system needs.

 Fisher’s Auto Service for Coolant Service

Call (425) 441-3626 or visit our website to schedule your Coolant Service or Coolant Flush today!