A vehicle radiator is a vital part of the vehicle cooling system. The radiator keeps the vehicle engine from overheating during operation. It also protects the car from the extreme heat produced by the engine. Rust and sludge will eventually build up in the radiator, which will negatively affect the radiator function. These can also damage the radiator, if left unchecked. Regular radiator flushing is part of any vehicle maintenance program, not only to keep the radiator in shape, but also to prolong the life of the radiator.
Open the hood of your vehicle, followed by the radiator cap. Be sure the engine has completely cooled, before opening the radiator cap.
Locate the radiator drain plug, found under the radiator. Place the drain pan under the radiator drain plug.
Drain the radiator, by opening the radiator drain plug, using a wrench or Phillips screwdriver. The coolant inside the radiator is toxic, so wear waterproof gloves when opening the radiator drain plug. Return the radiator drain plug, after the radiator has drained.
Transfer the used coolant in the drain pan to the used coolant container. Dispose of the used coolant properly.
Fill the radiator with the radiator flush solution, using the funnel to avoid any spills, while pouring in the radiator flush solution. Fill the remainder of the radiator with water. Close the radiator cap.
Start the vehicle, and leave it running, until the vehicle has reached its normal operating temperature. Turn on the heater, and set to the hottest position. Continue to run the vehicle for another 10 minutes.
Turn the vehicle off, and let the vehicle completely cool down, before draining the radiator flush solution. Open the radiator cap when the radiator is cool to the touch.
Place the drain pan under the radiator drain plug. Repeat Step 3 and Step 4 to drain the radiator flush solution from the radiator.
Fill the radiator with a 50/50 mixture of distilled water and coolant. Start the vehicle, and observe the coolant level in the radiator. Add distilled water to the radiator whenever necessary to raise the coolant level in the radiator. Stop adding water when the coolant level in the radiator has stabilized.
Screw on the radiator cap until it is tight, and check for any leaks from the radiator and radiator drain plug. Close the hood, and turn off the vehicle.
