When should antifreeze be changed?

Contents

• How often should antifreeze be changed?
• Signs that antifreeze needs to be changed

Antifreeze is a coolant that protects the engine from overheating in summer and from freezing in winter. Changing it is essential for the long-term and reliable operation of the vehicle.

This fluid not only protects the engine through different seasons, but also plays an important role in preventing corrosion and maintaining optimal performance under extreme conditions. Therefore it is important to know when it should be changed.

How often should antifreeze be changed?

Intervals depend on the type of antifreeze, the car model and the conditions in which you use it. On average, replacement for newer cars should be carried out every 5 years or 100,000 kilometers, and for older ones – every 40–60k km or more often with high mileage. 

Let’s look at the main guidelines according to the type of antifreeze that will help you plan this task better:

• IAT (traditional) – suitable for older vehicles, recommended replacement every 2-3 years or at 50,000 km;

• OAT (organic acid) – long-lasting (5-6 years or 150-200k km);

• HOAT (hybrid) – a combination of IAT and OAT, offers corrosion protection and a longer service life. Requires replacement every 5 to 7 years or after 150,000 to 200,000 kilometers;

• G13 (lobrid) – the newest class, environmentally friendly and with a service life of up to 10 years or 250,000 km.

Follow these intervals and make sure you use quality products suitable for your vehicle. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the quantity and do not mix different types of antifreeze. Use one with compatible specifications (e.g. G11, G12, G13). This care will ensure long-lasting operation of the cooling system.

Signs that antifreeze needs to be changed

Symptoms of old or ineffective antifreeze are often overlooked, but recognizing them early can save you costly repairs. Here are the key signs that indicate the need for service:

1. Change in color

   One of the easiest ways to tell if it's time to change the antifreeze is to check its color. It is usually bright green, orange or pink, but if it becomes brown or cloudy, this is a clear sign of problems.

2. Unpleasant smell

   If you notice a strange, sweet or chemical smell around the engine, this may mean that the antifreeze is leaking or evaporating.

3. Engine overheating

   Regular increases in engine temperature, especially in summer, are often the result of an ineffective cooling system.

4. Stains under the car

   Leaks from the cooling system may leave characteristic marks under the vehicle. If you notice bright-colored stains, it's time to check the system.

5. Sediment or flakes in the fluid

   A serious sign that the vehicle's cooling system is not functioning properly. This symptom usually indicates that the antifreeze is contaminated or has degraded over time, which can lead to a number of problems later on.

Pay attention to these symptoms and do not delay inspection. If you need a professional antifreeze change, contact our OnDrive car service by phone or online and trust our experts for quality and reliable servicing of your vehicle.