When to change coolant / antifreeze?

[Tarmac_Terrorist]

Evening all. :)

I don't seem to be able to see in the service schedule where VW replace the coolant. Just seems to be to check and top up as necessary. I thought this stuff was usually replaced every 4-5 years?

At the first cam belt change I had a new water pump fitted but the 2nd change (just a few hundred miles later) I just had the belt changed. What is the life span of these modern coolant fluids?

[th3_f15t]

I think VW list it as never being replaced, but I'd go for every 5 years personally.

[Tarmac_Terrorist]

Hmmm, does it not lose it's antifreeze properties then? I know the older blue stuff only had a life span of 2-3 years before it became ineffective.

[bacillus]

afaik they should change the antifreeze when replacing the water pump.

[vRSAlex]

afaik they should change the antifreeze when replacing the water pump.

About 3 litres gets replaced when doing a water pump. There is about 8 litres total, but you can't get it all out for a full change.

[OSB]

Hmmm, does it not lose it's antifreeze properties then? I know the older blue stuff only had a life span of 2-3 years before it became ineffective.

Anti freeze does not loose it 'anti freeze' qualities, unless it has been diluted by topping up with water.
The older stuff would loose its corrosion properties and needed changing on a regular basis. The chemicals used for anti corrosion and the materials used in the engine and other components have negated that.
VW quality antifreeze is 'good for life' whatever that means.
It wouldn't hurt to change, but I doubt it's needed - with a certain amount of replenishment every time a cam belt / thermostat etc is changed!

[Tarmac_Terrorist]

Thanks fellas 

[Gene Hunt]

Hmmm, does it not lose it's antifreeze properties then? I know the older blue stuff only had a life span of 2-3 years before it became ineffective.

Anti freeze does not loose it 'anti freeze' qualities, unless it has been diluted by topping up with water.
The older stuff would loose its corrosion properties and needed changing on a regular basis. The chemicals used for anti corrosion and the materials used in the engine and other components have negated that.
VW quality antifreeze is 'good for life' whatever that means.
It wouldn't hurt to change, but I doubt it's needed - with a certain amount of replenishment every time a cam belt / thermostat etc is changed!

......spot on.