Changing coolant in a 2001 S

[2001CorollaS]

Sorry to post such a simple question, but I prefer to do most maintenance myself over our local dealer and shops, especially after recent events.

I went to our local dealer before about changing it and was talking to them, they told me they would use TAP WATER when servicing the cooling systems. So I won't be trusting them. Previously, they messed up 4 times changing a broken door handle. They are hopeless.

So my question is, can I safely change the coolant myself with Toyota Red and distilled water following the procedure in the book? I've done it numerous times on older vehicles, but nowdays I hear tales of air pockets, and nightmare scenerios that require special equipement to do it right. Are these just tall tales to get you to spend $150 for a coolant change or is it REALLY required?

Any input or advice would be appreciated, although the PH for the coolant is perfect (guess Toyota Red is good stuff), I want to get some fresh in there before it does change.

[thms05corolla]

Well just so you know, Toyota's coolant is supposed to last 100K miles. But if you have already reached that DO IT YOURSELF!!! Its not hard at all and I wouldn't worry about all of those crazy scenarios. Definitely use the original Toyota red fluid and flush everything out. But its definitely an easy DIY project. GO FOR IT I SAY!!

[freakinbox]

the only thing I am not sure about when it comes to this. How you go about flushing out the fluid?

[2001CorollaS]

I would assume with distilled water. Like I said, I went to have it done, then drove off in horror from the dealership.

Thanks for the advice. I'll be doing it immediately, thankfully the PH is sill neutral.

[freakinbox]

I didn't know it was "evil" to use tap water ^o)
I know if you had no anti freeze at all you can use distilled water as a temp fix as long as it doesn't get cold it works.

[Flashmn]

I've used tap water, no problem in it, just dont use mineral water.

[2001CorollaS]

Hehe, tap water here is scarey thought, alot of crap I don't want in me or my radiator. The water here leaves deposits that burn out hot water heating elements every year.

[thespud]

Just a thought: Distilled water actually boils at a lower temprature than tap water, because of the lack of minerals in the water. But in saying that, when used with Toyota red Distilled water should be fine.

As far as the air pockets are concerned, don't worry too much. Changing the fluid is easy as pie...

[Flashmn]

Actually its the opposite. Distilled water doesnt boil easily, because theres no "contaminants" in the water. Its them that cause the boiling to occur.