An overheated engine is one of the most frustrating things that can happen while you’re driving. To prevent this from happening and to ensure your car is working efficiently, it’s essential to take care of your vehicle’s cooling system. It might be time for a coolant flush, also known as a radiator flush. Here’s a closer look at the radiator flush process.
The Pressure Test
If your car has a suspected leak, your mechanic will perform a pressure test before starting the flush process. Your mechanic will use a piece of equipment that looks like a tire pump to pressurize the system, and if the pressure drops quickly, it will point to where the leak is located. Once the leak is repaired, your system can be flushed.
Drain
The first step to a coolant flush is to drain all the coolant from your vehicle. It will appear slightly darker in color than the fresh coolant, but that is entirely normal. Once the old coolant is removed, it will be recycled by your repair shop.
Wash
After the coolant is drained, the next step is to clear your system of dirt and debris. This is done using a tool starting in the radiator and moving to the water pump. The system will be drained once more, and your heater core will be washed. And then the system will be drained one last time.
Filled Back Up
Once your coolant system has been completely flushed and cleaned, your mechanic will fill up your vehicle with fresh coolant.
Getting regular coolant flushes is an essential part of vehicle maintenance, but it is especially important in the summer and winter months, or anytime there are extreme temperatures in your area. A coolant flush should also be done if you’re planning on taking a road trip or will be driving much more frequently than usual. Time for a coolant flush? Take your car to Quality Lube Plus today!