My 2014 5.0 has 81k miles, and I just got back from the shop for an oil change and they ran a dip stick check on my coolant and said the acidity was close to needing to be replaced. The ph was 7, and they recommend changing if its between 5-6.5. My glycol % was 33% in the "need replaced" category, and they recommend 40-50%. They recommended flushing and putting in new fluid for $90

Anyone else have experiences with this? I'm wondering if I can just drain some of my existing coolant and add in some concentrated coolant instead of a 50/50 blend to fix my issues.

 

Haven’t changed mine but $90 seems decent. If I remember correctly when I was pricing it, fluid was going to cost me a good bit and then when you figure the pain in the ***** factor, a $90 flush was a no brainer.

 

is it normal to need a flush at 80k miles?

 

Would you just drain part of your oil and put some new in with the old.

so your truck is 5 yr old, with 81k miles, at $90, that equates to .001 cents/mile.

 

The factory recommended coolant change is at 6 years the first time and then every 3 years after that. Had my 3013 F150 done at 6 years. Cost about $150. They have to install a kit to do the flush. They did a pressure check and all. No leaks. I am satisfied with the price. The new world coolant is not cheap. Cost a lot more than the yellow and green stuff.

 

I bought a Peak branded coolant tester at AutoZone, and it said my coolant was excellent. Much better than the ratio they told me. So not sure who is wrong at this point...

 

You do need a flush as a regular service!!......weather you pay them or do it yourself...your choice....They are just proving/selling you this service....I'd bet That tester you bought only tells you the mix ratio only??

Note: It seems you pay the same price for 50/50 mix as you do for the 100% straight antifreeze...I'd mix your own if doing it yourself.......
It also seems up here in Ontario if it's labeled for Ford/ Chysler/ Gm/Nissan etc. it costs more.....I have always used just a name brand & mixed my own!!

 

Just had my 13 5.0 done last week (6yrs 2 months on road, only 38k miles) @ dealer. 2 gals coolant at $26/gal plus flush.
Total $170. Expensive yes, but coolant flush is a pain to do yourself on this truck. Hopefully will prevent premature water pump failure.