Question: Coolant Change

[Jdoherty2]

The other day I had my 2008 coupe at the dealership for some service. I asked them to change the coolant as the car is over 5 years old. They told me it didn't need changing as it is good to 40 below 0 and it is very clean. The book says it should be changed at 150,000 mile or 5 years. My question is should it be changed or not and why 5 years if it is clean?

 

[jhecox]

First off:

Welcome to the .


To my knowlege, coolant dosen't wear out. As long as it's clean and tests 40 below, I wouldn't change it. I haven't changed the coolant in my -07's.

 

[Hib Halverson]

First off:

Welcome to the .


To my knowlege, coolant dosen't wear out. As long as it's clean and tests 40 below, I wouldn't change it. I haven't changed the coolant in my -07's.

I'm sorry to say, the above is very poor advice.

The facts are:
The corrosion inhibiters in antifreeze loose their effectiveness over time not mileage.

Five years is the maximum one should keep a 50/50 mix in service. If you have an 08 which the original coolant, have it changed, now.

As for original coolant in an 2007...you are on borrowed time and corrosion has begun.
Bottom line: change your coolant.

Antifreeze and water are cheap. Engine blocks and heads are expensive.
I change my coolant every three years, regardless of mileage.