A coolant flush and replace might seem like just another one of those pricey dealer services you can’t afford. Still, there are some excellent reasons you should consider this service for your following oil change or maintenance visit. Not only does it help keep your car running smoothly, but it also helps extend your vehicle’s life, saving you money in the long run. So when you’re ready to book an appointment, here are five things to consider about coolant flushes and replacements.
1) To Clean Rust From the Radiator
Rust and other deposits can build up inside your car’s radiator. Having your car’s coolant flushed at regular intervals can help flush these harmful contaminants out of the cooling system, prolonging your engine’s life.
2) Reduce the Risk of Corrosion to Other Parts of the System
Keeping fresh coolant in your car’s engine can help prolong the life of your car’s water pump because the coolant acts as a lubricant for the water pump. The old coolant will force the water pump to work harder to do its job, eventually shortening its life.
3) Save you Time and Money in the Long Run
When your mechanic performs a coolant flush, they will typically inspect the car’s cooling system, including the hoses, clamps, radiator, and thermostat. Often issues with the cooling system can be caught and repaired before they become more severe and ultimately more expensive.
4) Prevent Issues With Clogged Cooling Lines
Additives in engine coolant help prevent the buildup of contaminants that can corrode and clog coolant lines and the car’s radiator. In addition, having the coolant flushed regularly can help ensure that these harmful contaminants don’t have time to build up to harmful levels that can damage your car’s engine.
5) Avoid Potential Engine Damage
Old coolant can become acidic once it becomes contaminated. Acidic coolant can cause several issues, including leaks by causing wear on hoses, wearing seals and other components of the water pump, and several other problems. The easiest way to prevent this is to have the coolant flushed regularly.
Each manufacturer will recommend specific intervals for coolant changes for particular makes and models. Consult your mechanic to determine if this schedule suits your specific situation. More frequent changes may be necessary depending on driving conditions or usage. Also, if you notice any signs of poor engine performance, see your trusted mechanic as soon as possible.