Hero image

Can you DIY a radiator flush

Nobody's got time to be "that car" broken down on the freeway with steam pouring from under the bonnet but what if your car is overdue for a radiator flush?

Over time rust and scale deposits build up in the cooling system components and the whole system becomes progressively clogged and not as good at cooling and protecting your car. This build up of rust and debris can damage parts of your cooling system including your water pump, radiator, hoses and thermostat, affecting the lifespan of those parts and leading to expensive repairs or replacements in the future.

But can you flush the radiator yourself?

While there are a lot of websites giving advice on how to flush a radiator yourself - we advise against it. Today's vehicles can be complex and mistakes like incomplete flushing or changing the coolant in your vehicle without proper flushing can stir up even more particles and cause blockages in your thermostat or radiator.

It's advisable to have your cooling system inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic, and properly flushed before being refilled with the right type of coolant, the system purged of any air pockets, and then the whole system professionally reviewed again to ensure full working order and to prevent any costly breakdowns in the future.

Radiator coolant is also quite toxic and needs to be handled very carefully. It has a sweet smell which can be attractive for young children and some pets, so proper storage is very important - letting a trained technician do this job for you means not handling or having dangerous chemicals around your house. Dangerous coolant also needs to be disposed of in the proper manner, professional workshops can have the coolant recycled or properly disposed of to save the environment.

If your vehicle is overheating, your dashboard shows your car is running hotter than normal or you are leaving puddles of coolant where ever you park it is best to have your cooling system reviewed by an expert.

Drysdale Motors can perform a well deserved service on your radiator and cooling system.

Our qualified mechanics will perform a proper radiator flush, using a cleansing solution to remove any build up. Once the cooling system is clean, the solution is emptied and new coolant added, your car's cooling system will be running like a dream: a radiator flush might be just what your car needs to bring it back to peak performance.

  • Your radiator will be more efficient, reliable and live longer.
  • Your engine will be more efficient and have an increased life expectancy.
  • Get a boost in your car's performance and power.
  • The water pump will last longer due to better protection and lubrication..

At Drysdale Motors, at your request we will perform a full 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report for free as part of any minor, major or log book service on your vehicle. This includes checking the coolant in your system and the written report will tell you if we feel a radiator flush, coolant replacement or any repairs are recommended to maintain the safety and performance of your vehicle.

Related articles

Thumbnail for Radiator Coolant
Article
Radiator Coolant

Even if it looks clean, your coolant still might need replacing!

Read more
Thumbnail for Have you checked your oil lately?
Article
Have you checked your oil lately?

Oil has a few important functions - so it's important that you understand why, and how, to check your oil on a regular basis.

Read more
Thumbnail for Log book service without a log book?
Article
Log book service without a log book?

Keeping up with your Log Book schedule helps to maintain your statutory rights to a new car warranty but what do you do if you have lost your log book?

Read more