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Checking anti-freeze levels in coolant

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  • 11-11-2014 6:03pm
    #1
    creedp
    Registered Users Posts: 5,649 ✭✭✭


    just wondering what is required to DIY test anti-freeze levels in coolant and do garages routinely test levels during 'normal' service?


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    #2
    Max Moment
    Registered Users Posts: 252 ✭✭Max Moment


    You can buy a little tool which will check this for you

    http://www.halfords.ie/motoring/engine-oils-fluids/antifreeze/halfords-antifreeze-tester-meg


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    #3
    lomb
    Registered Users Posts: 6,031 ✭✭✭lomb


    Or suction out some and put it in a freezer. Shouldn't freeze as they are around -22.


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    #4
    biko
    Registered Users Posts: 81,223 ✭✭✭✭biko


    It's not part of normal service. You can ask for it though.
    When in doubt when you last changed coolant at all, change all the coolant.


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    #5
    creedp
    Registered Users Posts: 5,649 ✭✭✭creedp


    biko wrote: »
    It's not part of normal service. You can ask for it though.
    When in doubt when you last changed coolant at all, change all the coolant.


    Car is 6 years old and I have never changed the coolant or specifically asked for it to be checked/changed at a service. Probably better to change coolant at this stage. Presumably a fool proof DIY job even for a DIY challenged person - drain and refill?


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    #6
    biko
    Registered Users Posts: 81,223 ✭✭✭✭biko


    Yes, drain and refill. Google the specifics like coolant type and drain plug location for your model car (you didn't mention it) and remember to keep the coolant and recycle locally at your council depot.


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    #7
    creedp
    Registered Users Posts: 5,649 ✭✭✭creedp


    biko wrote: »
    Yes, drain and refill. Google the specifics like coolant type and drain plug location for your model car (you didn't mention it) and remember to keep the coolant and recycle locally at your council depot.


    Sorry Ford S-Max 2L TCDi


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    #8
    creedp
    Registered Users Posts: 5,649 ✭✭✭creedp


    For information I got my hands on a Ford service schedule sheet for a 6 year old car and it advises that the antifreeze concentration should be checked at but that the cooling system should be drained, flushed and refiled with purple super plus (LTS 24 122 4) every 10 years. Might get the the Halford tester linked above and if antifreeze levels OK then I leave it for a while.


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