How Often Should I Have My Vehicle's Antifreeze Replaced?

September 15th, 2024

Antifreeze, also referred to as coolant, is essential in regulating your vehicle's engine temperature, particularly during extreme weather conditions. It prevents your engine from freezing in the winter and overheating in the summer, ensuring optimal performance year-round. But how often should you replace your antifreeze? While many modern Chevy models use long-life coolants designed to last several years, it's still important to follow your vehicle's manual for specific replacement intervals. Typically, most vehicles require an antifreeze change every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or every few years, depending on your driving habits and local climate. Proactive coolant replacement not only ensures engine efficiency but also extends the life of critical components in your vehicle's cooling system. For peace of mind, bring your Chevy to Capitol Chevrolet in Salem, OR, where our expert technicians can inspect and service your coolant as part of your vehicle's regular maintenance routine.

What Happens If You Don't Replace Your Antifreeze?

Failing to replace antifreeze at the recommended intervals can lead to several problems that may jeopardize the health of your engine. Over time, antifreeze can degrade, losing its ability to regulate temperature and protect the engine from corrosion. As the rust inhibitors in the coolant wear out, the coolant becomes more acidic, which can lead to corrosion in the radiator, water pump, and other key components. Additionally, antifreeze helps prevent the buildup of harmful deposits that can clog your engine's cooling passages. Without proper coolant maintenance, these blockages can lead to overheating, causing extensive engine damage and costly repairs. Regularly replacing your antifreeze ensures that your cooling system continues to function effectively, preventing breakdowns and expensive repair bills. At Capitol Chevrolet, our certified technicians will not only replace your antifreeze but also check for leaks or other issues that could impair your cooling system's performance.