When Should You Get Your Radiator Flushed and Why

The thermostat in your vehicle tells your radiator when to kick in and begin filtering water and antifreeze to prevent temperatures in your engine from rising. Keeping your radiator clean via flushing is important for many reasons; discover when you should get your radiator flushed and why this process is essential to the healthy operation of your vehicle.

When You Should Flush Your Car's Radiator
While there is no set time frame in which you should flush your car's radiator, it's recommended to have the unit flushed every 40,000 to 60,000 miles or every other year. Your driving habits, how large your radiator is, and the type of antifreeze you use determine when your radiator needs flushing.

If you use a low-quality antifreeze or your radiator is full of sediment or debris (such as dust or small bits of brush), you will want to have your radiator flushed more frequently. You will also want to check your radiator and antifreeze container frequently if you often drive on unpaved roads since dirt and other debris is more likely to contaminate your radiator.

Why Radiator Flushing Is Important
Keep in mind that flushing your car's radiator is different than draining the fluid. When you drain your radiator, your mechanic removes about half of the water and antifreeze in the unit, leaving a reservoir with enough room to add more coolant to your tank.

Flushing a radiator is a more complex process, involving entirely removing all liquid from your radiator, cleaning the radiator out, then refilling it with the necessary fluids to keep your engine cool. Benefits of a radiator flush include:

Radiator Longevity
Your radiator is a component that may need to be replaced during the time you own your car, particularly if you drive long distances without having the unit inspected. Flushing your radiator regularly (as recommended by your mechanic) will allow the component to last longer before needing repairs or replacement.

Problem Detection
During the radiator flushing process, your mechanic will check for flaws in your radiator that need to be addressed. Since the unit is already clean and fully emptied of liquids, it's easier to spot potential problems before they lead to an eventual breakdown on the road. Your mechanic will make radiator repairs as needed during the flushing process with your permission.

Safer Operation
With fresh fluids working to keep your engine cool, you experience safer operation when driving your vehicle.

Remember that simply flushing your radiator does not eliminate the need to check your antifreeze levels regularly; have your mechanic explain the way to check your antifreeze reservoir and the type of coolant that works best in colder and warmer weather.

Water Pump Longevity
There are lubricants in antifreeze that benefit your car's water pump, allowing it to last longer. With a healthy water pump working in conjunction with a freshly flushed radiator, your car is able to stay cool as needed.

Your car's radiator will need to be inspected if your car overheats easily, is leaking antifreeze, or if you notice steam coming from your hood after a long drive. See your mechanic right away if you suspect issues with your water pump, thermostat, radiator, or another mechanical component of your car that keeps it from overheating.

With proper care and maintenance, you can expect your car's radiator to last for many years. Talk to our professionals at Kell Radiator Service about radiator flushing today.