Myth: Coolant Never Needs to be Replaced
Some drivers think of coolant like transmission fluid—something you just “top off” but never really change. This is a dangerous habit for your engine’s health. Over time, the chemical additives in coolant that prevent corrosion and lubricate the water pump break down. If left too long, the coolant can become acidic and start eating away at your radiator and engine gaskets from the inside.
While you don’t need to change it every month, most manufacturers recommend a full flush and replacement every five years or 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Neglecting this can lead to a clogged cooling system and a severely overheated engine, which is one of the quickest ways to ruin a car.
