Coolant quick change

[Davejam]

Can anyone recommend a national chain that does a good job on Coolant exchange?
I'd prefer not to make a mess and do it myself.

Here are some criteria:

1. Uses some type of machine to get 95%+ change out.
2. Also pump out reservoir and refill it.
3. Will use the right coolant. In my case I have a Honda.
4. Not interested in any flush chemicals.

I'm looking at Valvoline instant oil change chain as they manufacture Zerex asian, so I would think #3 will be a safe bet, but would confirm.
But on the other criteria they don't say much on their website.

 

[dogememe]

Be cautious, I think VIOC uses "universal" coolant not Zerex OE specific coolants. But I have no source, just what I've heard, so don't quote me on that.

 

[Davejam]

Yes, that seems correct, digging a bit their website claims they use Valvoline maxlife only which is the generic universal version.

 

[HowAboutThis]

The Toyota dealer I frequent charges less than quick lube and local places for a coolant exchange/flush/whatever they call it. So did the Honda dealer when I had a Honda. Same for transmission flush. So I'd go there, because they use the right fluids (hopefully). Just my view.

I just had a transmission flush at the Toyota/Subaru dealer for $125 including a new filter on a Forester. Cheaper than quick lubes.

 

[eljefino]

I worked at a tire shop and would not recommend them (us?) for a coolant exchange. They had a gross machine with all these adapters that went down to 1/2 inch quick connects and the "master tech" would use the 1/2 inch quick connect to get two full-size hoses to mate up to burp the air out under the engine's power. He basically idled the car for 45 minutes, dribbling coolant everywhere so it would burn off and smell.

That machine may have been able to flush a motor but it itself would have had residual all-makes, all-models antfreeze in it.

Plus there is the quandary of endorsing a chain that hires 1000s of peoples with varying ability and attitude, online, from cross-country.

DIY or find a mechanic you trust who works on your make who doesn't think you're crazy for using their brand/ color of antifreeze. This may be a pretty good test of if he's caring enough for the rest of your car too.

If you're afraid of making a mess, just find an industrial park on Sunday morning, take your normal precautions, do the work, then blow out of there when done.

 

[Chris142]

I have a coolant exchange machine. It's pretty useless. It does not get even close to 90% out unless I flush gallons of good coolant through the engine. It also forces open the thermostat,often breaking it.

 

[CharlieBauer]

I agree that if you're not going to diy, then the dealer is a good idea to be sure you're getting the right coolant and that the right procedure is used for your vehicle.

 

[JMJNet]

What kind of car/vehicle/makes/model are we talking about?

 

[Davejam]

2013 Honda Civic