Topping up engine coolant...

[erin-x]

I was checking my Ford Ka earlier on and noticed the engine coolant level is a bit on the low side. I googled it and it says that you have to flush out what is there before you replace it. Is this essential? If it is, is it easy, like very easy? :-) Thanks x

[shoota]

If it just needs topping up a half pint or so then its not necessary to flush the whole system.
Just add your water or water/antifreeze mix to the header tank.

[gingejbee]

If it's on the low side, you just top it up with more of the same mixture. If you want the whole lot replaced, that,s when you could flush the system out.

[Graham-W]

If you are just topping up there's no need to flush. Just top up with good quality antifreeze.
If changing the coolant for some reason, it may be a good idea to flush out the system before refilling.

[erin-x]

Thanks :-) And is it just any antifreeze or does it have to be a specific kind?

[TWR]

"WHAT EVER YOU DO" Do not do this with the engine hot, always top up with a cold engine.

[shoota]

If it is just an inch of the header tank that is down then water would do for the summer months.
Otherwise any ready mixed or dilutable anti freeze will do.

[Graham-W]

I have heard stories of specific manufactures not doing warranty work if you have used another antifreeze. If in doubt get some from Ford but expect to pay through the nose for it.

[gingejbee]

It's best not to think of it as anti-freeze, think of it as all-year coolant because it does other jobs - like preventing corrosion. It's best to use the same stuff that's in there. Ask at a Ford dealer, or Halfords would have the right stuff but cheaper.

[erin-x]

Thanks guys :-) I'll try and nip up to Halfords tomorrow after work and see what they've got.

[derekpara]

Antifreeze comes in either red or blue, according to its composition. My VW has red and my Ford has Blue.

Check first and use the manufacturer's recommendation.