How To Check Your Antifreeze
What You Need
Before you begin, there are a few items you need for the job:
- An anti-freeze tester: These are usually sold for just a few dollars at any auto parts store.
- Paper towel or rag: This will help keep the anti-freeze off of surfaces like paint that could get damaged.
- Ziplock bag: This will help keep dirt out of your anti-freeze tester while you’re not using it.
Step 1: Locate The Reservoir
The first step is to locate the reservoir where your car’s anti-freeze is stored. This is usually in the engine compartment, and it looks like a plastic container with a lid on top (as seen in Figure 1). There should also be a warning label telling you not to open the lid while the fluid is hot – so always make sure that your car has been sitting idle for at least two hours before proceeding!
Step 2: Testing The Anti-Freeze
Now that you have located the reservoir, insert the end of your tester into the fluid (you may have to use a straw attached to the bottom of the tester). Then pump up and down until about half of the fluid has been drawn up into the glass chamber on top (Figure 2). Now look at how many “balls” are floating on top of the fluid; this number tells you how well protected your car is against extreme cold temperatures (see Table 1 below). Once done testing, pour any remaining liquid into its original container, then wipe off any residue with paper towel or rag.
Step 3: Storing The Tester
After testing, take a ziplock bag and store your anti-freeze tester in it until its next use. This will help keep dust and dirt off of it when it’s not in use! And don’t forget – always remember that antifreeze is poisonous so make sure none gets on any surfaces outside of its original container!
