Flushing the radiator in the 2002 Cadillac Deville is often neglected as part of regularly scheduled maintenance. Service manuals vary on when the radiator needs to be flushed, so it's important to review thoroughly your vehicle's maintenance manual to determine the correct intervals. Rust, grime and calcium deposits found in your radiator can clog the water flow chambers, leading to engine overheating. Performing a simple, periodic radiator flush removes these contaminants and extends the life of your vehicle.
Locate a level surface to perform the task, set the parking brake and brace the rear wheels using wheel chocks. Carefully raise the Cadillac and lower it onto the jack stands.
Put on your safety glasses, raise the hood and disconnect the battery to prevent from being accidentally shocked. Remove the radiator fill cap by hand to relieve the pressure from the cooling system.
Slide the fluid recycling container directly underneath the radiator drain plug, located on the bottom-left when facing the car. Reach up through the lower splash shield and loosen the drain plug to release the antifreeze (engine coolant) by turning it counterclockwise using a socket wrench. Drain half of the radiator coolant and move the recycling container aside.
Replace and tighten the radiator drain plug and pour in the complete bottle of radiator flush. Refill the radiator with water using your garden hose and replace the fill cap. Start the engine and allow it to idle for two minutes, then turn the engine off. Allow the engine to cool for several minutes before continuing onto the next step.
Put on gloves as an added precaution and place the empty bucket underneath the drain plug. Carefully remove the plug to release the water. Pour this flushed water into the recycling container and safely secure it closed.
Remove the fill cap and insert the water hose into the radiator fill opening, turn on the water and allow it flush for three minutes.
Turn off the water and re-plug the radiator drain. Reconnect the battery, safely re-jack and remove the jack stands.
Start the engine; allow it to idle while filling it with a 50/50 mixture of replacement antifreeze and water. Continue idling for several minutes with the radiator cap off to bleed out any trapped air in the cooling system. Replace the radiator cap by hand and check for leaks at the hose and drain connections.
