Your vehicle's radiator is designed to keep your engine at the optimal temperature for operation and performance. Keeping your radiator in good working condition is essential to reducing the risk of overheating and severely damaging your vehicle's engine. A radiator flush and fill should be performed annually to ensure that engine coolant is able to circulate properly through the engine block area.
It is essential that your engine maintains a temperature that is neither too hot nor too cold. As you drive, the mechanical components of your engine create large amounts of friction and heat. While your engine oil acts as a lubricant, it can only protect the engine until it reaches a certain temperature. At this point, the radiator pumps coolant through a system of tubes that absorbs the heat from the engine. The coolant then carries the heat to the radiator where it is dispersed into the air. This system is crucial to keep your car from overheating, which could damage the engine and result in costly repairs.
Over time, solid deposits may form inside your radiator system. These deposits can cause blockages, which prevent the coolant from circulating properly. As a result, your vehicle may run hotter. Too much heat can damage your engine parts. A radiator flush is a routine maintenance procedure that can prevent excessive heat build-up by ensuring that your cooling system is working properly. During a radiator flush, the coolant is drained from the radiator and replaced with fresh water and a coolant/detergent mixture. This cleaning agent is circulated through the cooling system to dissolve and break down any build-up inside the tubing. Once clean, this mixture is removed and replaced with fresh coolant.
If the coolant is not changed within recommended intervals, it becomes acidic and loses its ability to keep the engine cool and protect from corrosion, potentially leading to a plugged heater core, corroded water pump or a clogged radiator. In addition, cars that overheat due to old coolant are more likely to suffer a blown head gasket, which is extremely expensive to repair. A radiator flush will help to lubricate the water pump, lengthening its life and efficiency.
You do not need to visit your dealer for a radiator flush. Your local independent auto shop will most likely perform a radiator flush and fill at a reasonable price. Often, the technician will perform a complete inspection of your vehicle's cooling system to ensure that all of the parts are in good condition and working properly. They may use pressure tests to determine if there are any leaks in the system. Your auto specialist can guide you toward the coolant that will work best for your vehicle. Good maintenance will ensure that your vehicle cooling system is working efficiently and your engine is well protected.
Consult your vehicle owner's manual to determine how often you should take your car in for a radiator flush and fill. If you notice that your engine is running hot, take your car to a qualified technician as soon as possible for a cooling system inspection.
