does a car need topping up with anti freeze every year?

Answer 1

Hopefully you are checking the level more than once a year. You should keep it at the full cold level year round and should test the antifreeze concentration in the fall. Always check and topp off the level when the engine is cold>

Answer 2

The ratio of the mix needs checking every winter, also you should use an antifreeze which is also an inhibitor.
The anti-freeze will obviously stop the coolant from freeing but the inhibitor stops the rust from developing within the engine casing.

It is also a good idea to use deionised water which is readily available and relatively cheap.

Make sure the inhibitor is used summer and winter.

Answer 3

You will get a certain amount of anti freeze weakening throughout the year IE topping up the rad , anti freeze is alcohol so it also evaporates a little, i just top it up a little with pure anti freeze every year to keep its strength up

Answer 4

Hi

If you think about it logically, you should have your cooling system flushed out completely and refilled with good quality fresh antifreeze mix every year in time for Winter. I personally use de-ionised water rather than tap water to mix the antifreeze when I service a cooling system.

You should check the level and top it up accordingly with the correct coolant mix every week and before every long journey.

Very best regards

Geordie

Answer 5

Hi there, there are so many types of antifreeze out there and for different types of engine ie cast alloy or cast steel and what types of gaskets and seals they use. Some antifreeze if used can create a gas which erodes alloy and causes untold amounts of damage if used in the wrong engine type.
I would advise you contact the vehicle manufacturer and find out which type of antifreeze is recommended for your vehicle. Antifreeze also comes in standard or long-life and antifreeze is either recommended that it be changed every 2 yrs or 4yrs dependant on type. The information is endless regards fluid of any type and we should be aware of what is recommended.
Cheers

Answer 6

Not if you haven't had to put any water in it during the year. If you've had to top up the radiator occassionally, then yes, I'd also put in some more antifreeze. It's best to do this anytime if you have to top up the radiator, it acts as a coolant in summer too.

Answer 7

It might not need topping up but certainly needs checking. If you take it to a decent place ask them to check the antifreeze strength. They should be able with a hydrometer to tell you what strength it is (what temperature range it can be used in) then they can adjusts as necessary.

Answer 8

Not usually, but you're supposed to check the level before winter. If you've added water, you should probably test it with one of those cheap testers to see what temperature level it will handle in cold weather. Get it flushed every two years.

Answer 9

Not normally, you can take your car into your local garage and ask them to check the concentration of the anti free and advise if you need any added to it.

Answer 10

Sure!!! It's not like you are going to damage anything. It's always good to check you fluids! Mix 50%-50% water and antifreeze.. Good all around mixture for summer and winter.

Tx USA