How Often Does Your Radiator Need to be Flushed?

The cooling system of your vehicle plays an important role in ensuring that vital components of your car’s engine do not overheat and the vehicle runs smoothly. It is crucial to top up the coolant to ensure adequate levels to cool the engine effectively. However, you need to flush the radiator and top it up with a new coolant from time to time.

Coolants work by absorbing heat from the engine. They also contain chemicals that prevent sedimentation and corrosion. These properties wane with regular use. At some point, you need to remove the entire coolant as it becomes ineffective.

There is no standard timeline within which you should flush your radiator. However, the owner’s manual provides details of when to flush it. It also explains the procedure to replace the coolant. We recommend flushing the radiator with each coolant change.

If you do not have the manual, we recommend flushing the radiator every three to years or 80,000 miles, whichever comes first. Newer models may work with the coolant for up to 100,000 miles or five years. This is vital, especially if it is an old vehicle whose service history is not clear.

Signs That the Radiator Needs To Be Flushed

If the coolant looks murky or viscous, it requires changing. The thick sediment is usually a result of sediments and dirt that have accumulated from the engine. If the color of the coolant changes to brown, it means that the cooling system is dirty and needs flushing.

During regular service, the mechanic may also check the coolant for acidity. He or she may recommend flushing the radiator if the coolant is acidic, even if it looks clean. Acidic coolant may corrode the radiator and the entire cooling network of pipes.

Besides, if you have cooling issues in your vehicle, including grinding noises and steam under the hood, you need to flush the radiator. Other problems include fluctuation of the engine temperature gauge, coolant that is draining relatively fast or pooling below the vehicle, and the presence of contaminants in the coolant reservoir.

Bring your car to our auto repair shop for a professional radiator flush today!