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Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is a liquid mixture that is added to the radiator of a vehicle to help regulate the engine’s temperature. It prevents the engine from overheating in hot weather and from freezing in cold weather. Coolant is typically a mix of water and ethylene glycol or propylene glycol. It circulates through the engine and the radiator, absorbing heat from the engine and dissipating it through the radiator. This process helps maintain an optimal operating temperature, ensuring the engine runs efficiently and preventing damage caused by extreme temperatures.
Bleeding the cooling system is the process of removing air pockets that can become trapped within the cooling system. Air pockets can prevent the coolant from circulating properly, leading to overheating and inefficient cooling. Bleeding ensures that the cooling system is filled with coolant and that there is no air obstructing the flow.
TOOLS AND MATERIALS:
- Coolant (ready-to-use or concentrate mixed with distilled water)
- Distilled water (for flushing, if needed)
- Drain pan
- Flathead screwdriver or wrench (for drain plug and bleeder screw)
- Funnel
- Jack and jack stands (if lifting the car)
- OBDII Bluetooth scanner (optional, for monitoring engine temperature)
PROCEDURES:
Changing the Coolant:
- Locate the Radiator and Drain Plug:
- Find the radiator and locate the drain plug at the bottom.
- Remove the Splash Cover (if applicable):
- Remove the splash cover to access the radiator drain plug.
- Place a Drain Pan Underneath:
- Position a drain pan under the drain plug to catch the old coolant.
- Open the Drain Plug:
- Carefully turn the drain plug with a flathead screwdriver or by hand to open it and let the old coolant flow into the pan.
- Ensure Car is on a Flat Surface:
- The car should be on a flat surface without the front being lifted.
- Flush the System (if needed):
- If the old coolant has already been drained, use distilled water to flush the system. Let it drain completely.
- Open the Radiator Cap:
- Open the radiator cap to speed up the draining process.
- Lift the Rear of the Car (optional):
- Optionally, lift the rear of the car to help drain more coolant from the engine.
- Remove Hose from Water Pump (alternative):
- Alternatively, you can remove the hose connected to the water pump to drain more coolant.
- Close the Drain Plug:
- Once the system is flushed and drained, close the drain plug securely.
- Lower the Car:
- Lower the car from the rear if it was lifted.
- Remove and Clean the Coolant Reservoir:
- Remove the coolant reservoir, empty the old coolant, and clean it. Securely place it back in position.
- Refill with New Coolant:
- Using a funnel, pour the new coolant into the radiator. Use ready-to-use coolant to avoid mixing.
- Check for Leaks:
- Check for any leaks underneath before filling the coolant completely.
- Fill the Radiator and Reservoir:
- Fill the radiator until the coolant level reaches the top of the radiator neck.
- Fill the reservoir until it reaches the “full” mark.
Bleeding the Cooling System:
- Remove Center Console (if applicable):
- To access the thermostat’s bleeding screw, remove the center console if necessary.
- Place Funnel at Radiator Neck:
- Place a funnel at the radiator neck, ensuring it is airtight to prevent air pockets from entering the cooling system.
- Fill Funnel with Coolant:
- Fill the funnel with coolant, ensuring no air can enter.
- Open the Bleeder Screw:
- Open the bleeder screw using a wrench to release any trapped air, then close it.
- Watch for Bubbles:
- At this stage, you may see bubbles coming from the coolant, indicating that air is being purged from the system.
- Start the Engine:
- Start the engine and let it run until the thermostat opens and the coolant starts circulating.
- Monitor Temperature:
- Most car thermostats open at a temperature range between 82°C to 91°C. If you don’t have a gauge to monitor the engine temperature, run the engine for 20 to 30 minutes to reach 82°C.
- Use OBDII Scanner (optional):
- Use an OBDII Bluetooth scanner to monitor the engine temperature if available.
- Periodically Open Bleeder Screw:
- Periodically open the bleeder screw briefly, then close it securely to ensure trapped air is released from the system.
- Keep Coolant Level in Funnel:
- Keep an eye on the coolant level in the funnel to ensure it does not become empty. Top up the coolant if needed.
- Complete Bleeding Process:
- After the thermostat opens and no bubbles are visible in the coolant, the bleeding process is complete.
- Turn Off Engine:
- Turn off the engine and let the coolant cool down before removing the funnel.
- Check the Coolant Level Over the Next Few Days:
- Over the next few days, check the coolant level and add more if necessary.
- Reassemble Everything:
- Put back everything you have removed or disconnected.
Warning: Coolant is harmful to both humans and animals. Handle with care, avoid ingestion or skin contact, and always dispose of old coolant properly. Follow all safety guidelines to protect yourself and the environment.
