Your engine generates intense heat every time you drive, and it relies on a healthy cooling system to keep temperatures in check. At the heart of that system is the coolant, which circulates through the engine, radiator, and heater core to absorb and dissipate heat. Over time, this fluid becomes contaminated, loses its protective properties, and can even start to damage the very system it's supposed to protect.
That’s where a coolant flush comes in. While it may not sound urgent, flushing your coolant regularly is one of the best ways to extend the life of your engine and prevent expensive repairs.
What Coolant Does for Your Engine
Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is a mixture of water and chemical additives designed to absorb heat and prevent freezing in cold temperatures. It also contains rust inhibitors and lubricants that protect metal surfaces and help keep components like the water pump operating smoothly.
Without proper coolant circulation, your engine could overheat or seize, and parts like the radiator and heater core could become clogged or corroded.
Why Coolant Breaks Down Over Time
Even though coolant is long-lasting, it doesn’t last forever. The chemical additives that prevent corrosion and scale buildup degrade with time and use. Once that protection is gone, the inside of your cooling system is vulnerable to rust, sediment, and chemical reactions that can form sludge.
Contaminated coolant can also become acidic, eating away at gaskets and metal surfaces. If left unchanged, it may clog narrow passages in the heater core or restrict flow through the radiator, leading to overheating.
Signs Your Coolant May Need Flushing
There are a few warning signs that your coolant may be past its prime:
- Your temperature gauge is running hotter than usual
- The coolant looks rusty, brown, or sludgy
- You notice a sweet smell or see coolant puddles under your car
- Your heater isn’t working well on cold days
- The coolant reservoir looks dirty or oily
Even without symptoms, a flush should be done at regular intervals based on your vehicle’s age, mileage, and manufacturer guidelines.
Why Topping Off Isn’t Enough
It might seem like adding more coolant is a quick fix, but topping off doesn't remove the old, contaminated fluid or restore the additives that protect your engine. In fact, mixing new coolant with degraded coolant can reduce the effectiveness of both.
A proper coolant flush completely removes the old fluid and replaces it with fresh coolant that’s designed for your specific vehicle.
What Happens During a Coolant Flush
During a coolant flush, a technician will drain the existing coolant, flush the system with a cleaning solution or water to remove deposits and contaminants, and then refill it with new coolant. They may also inspect the radiator cap, hoses, and water pump to make sure the entire cooling system is in good shape.
It’s a relatively quick and affordable service that can prevent major issues like head gasket failure, heater core clogs, or radiator leaks.
Protecting Your Engine Year-Round
Coolant does more than prevent overheating in the summer. It also protects your engine block from freezing in winter. Old or low-quality coolant can allow ice to form inside the engine, causing cracks or severe internal damage. That’s why a flush is a smart part of any fall or winter maintenance routine, especially if you live in an area with cold temperatures.
Even in mild climates, corrosion and sediment buildup can shorten the life of your vehicle if coolant isn’t maintained properly.
When to Schedule a Coolant Flush
Most vehicles need a coolant flush every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, but the best schedule depends on the type of coolant used and your car’s maintenance history. Some extended-life coolants can last longer, while older vehicles may need more frequent service.
If you’ve just purchased a used car and aren’t sure when the coolant was last changed, it’s a good idea to get a flush for peace of mind.
Schedule a Cooling System Check at Nerger's Auto Express in Bound Brook, NJ
If you’re not sure about the condition of your coolant, let our team take a look. At Nerger's Auto Express in Bound Brook, NJ, our technicians will inspect your entire cooling system, check for leaks, and let you know if it’s time for a flush. We use the right coolant for your vehicle and ensure everything is clean, sealed, and ready to protect your engine in any season.
Call or visit us today to schedule your coolant flush and keep your engine running cool and reliable.