Keeping your Chevy Impala operating at its peak level of efficiency requires regular maintenance. Flushing the radiator is an excellent example of just this type of maintenance. Because dirt and grime can build up during regular use of the car, an owner should flush the radiator of his Chevy Impala every other year.
Park the Chevy Impala on a level surface. If possible, place the car on risers to make the underneath of the car more accessible. Be sure to set the parking brake before working on it.
Open the hood of the Impala and touch the radiator. If the radiator is cool to the touch, then loosen the radiator cap with one turn. Wait a few seconds to make sure the radiator pressure is gone. Now, remove the radiator cap.
Position a bucket or tray beneath the radiator drain plug to catch the old coolant. Be sure the tray or bucket has at least a 2-gallon capacity. Don't let coolant drain onto the driveway because it is extremely toxic to people and pets.
Use a wrench to remove the radiator drain plug from the underside of the radiator. In some models of the Impala, the drain is not directly underneath the radiator but on the backside of the radiator.
Allow the radiator to drain completely. After completing the drain, place a cover on the bucket or pour the coolant into another sealable container. Make certain you dispose of the coolant properly at the local liquid waste recycle center or automotive store.
Flush the radiator of the Chevy Impala out with distilled water. Tap water can leave sediments behind that can damage your coolant system. Allow the distilled water to drain into the pan and dispose of the flush solution. Repeat this process until the drained water is clear of debris.
Replace the radiator plug back into its original position.
Fill the radiator of the Chevy Impala to the top with the coolant that your owner's manual recommends. You may want to use the same type of coolant that was in the radiator previously because different types of radiator fluid will not mix well, even if only a small amount remains in the radiator.
Start the engine and allow it to run until the cooling fan turns on twice. Then turn the car off and allow the radiator to cool. Recheck the coolant level. If the coolant level went down, you will need to add more to the radiator.
Screw the radiator cap back into place and close the hood.
