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Coolant/Antifreeze Drain and Refill
Typical Cost: Low
Mobile Repair? Yes
Typical Lead Time: 2 - 24 hours due to mechanic availability
What does a coolant/antifreeze drain & refill do?
Having the correct level and concentrate of coolant is of paramount importance both for maintaining engine efficiency, but also to prevent internal issues building up, such as rust.
A cooling system drain and refill is quite simply, the removal of the old coolant mix before refilling it with fresh coolant including removing the air from the system
Coolant / Antifreeze doesn’t just help keep the engine temperature down. The mix contains additives that prevent the fluid from freezing in sub zero temperatures, but it also has a conditioner that prevents rust and reduces the risk of blockages in the small fins of radiators.
As the engine cooling system also runs into the car’s interior and through the heater matrix, it’s importance to the general comfort of the driver and passengers cannot be dismissed.
How often should the coolant/antifreeze be refreshed?
This very much depends on the manufacturer's recommendation, but as a general rule, it should be refreshed at least every 5 years if not sooner.
I have recently bought the vehicle and there is no indication of when the coolant/antifreeze was last changed?
If there is no record of the coolant being changed and the vehicle is over 5 years old, we would recommend doing it as soon as possible.
What happens during coolant/antifreeze drain and refill?
There are many different processes required depending on the manufacturer, some of which may include all the following or just some
The mechanic will
* Drain the coolant from the system, usually by undoing a bottom radiator hose.
* If deemed necessary, and possible to do, back flush the system with high pressure water
* Refit the hose to secure the system and then refill it with the correct ratio of coolant mix to the manufacturer's recommendation.
* Run the engine up to operating temperature and remove the air from the system including the internal cabin heating system.
* Ensure there are no leaks and that the cooling fan kicks in as it should
What to search for on the ClickMechanic site?
Coolant/antifreeze drain & refill
Associated repairs
Cooling system pressure test (leak detection)
How much does it cost to have a cooling/antifreeze drain and refill carried out?
The cost of the cooling/antifreeze drain and refill depends on your car and location.
Find out what you could save by having your coolant /antifreeze drain and refill carried out by ClickMechanic, by selecting your vehicle
https://www.clickmechanic.com/bookings/car
FAQ’s
Can I supply my own parts?
No, we will not fit customer supplied parts unless they are a brand new item, purchased from a dealership with the receipt as proof of purchase. There is no flexibility over this due to insurance and warranty issues.
What happens if the mechanic finds that the coolant/antifreeze doesn’t require replacing and the problem is due to another issue?
In this scenario, the mechanic will provide a no obligation quote for the correct repair. Should you accept this, the mechanic can alter the booking accordingly. If you decide not to go ahead with the alternative repair, the mechanic can change the booking to a call out and diagnostic booking and charge according to the time spent with the vehicle and call out.