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Signs You Need a Radiator Flush: Why It's Important and What to Look For

Don't let your car become that unfortunate one stuck on the side of the road with steam spewing out from beneath its hood.

A radiator flush is a simple yet important process that involves cleaning the radiator and removing old coolant to prevent blockages and other potential problems. At its core, a radiator flush is a preventative measure that can save you from costly repairs down the road.

If your car is overheating you can't just blame the weather, your engine produces a lot of extreme heat and it's the radiator and cooling system that does all the work to prevent your car, and you, from being damaged by all that heat. There is special fluid called coolant in your system that also prevents liquids from freezing and protects the system from corrosion as well.

Signs you need a radiator flush or cooling system service:

Do you notice puddles under your car ? Does your temp gauge read hotter than normal ? Is your car overheating? Then it is time to have your cooling system inspected.

We can perform a well deserved service on your radiator and cooling system. Our fully trained expert mechanics will flush your radiator, using a fluid designed to clear out any build up. When the cooling system has been cleaned out , the solution is removed and coolant replaced, 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.

What are the benefits of a radiator flush?

Your radiator will be more efficient - and it will last a lot longer. Your engine will be more efficient and have an increased life expectancy. Engine performance and power will be boosted. The water pump will last longer due to better protection and lubrication..

How often should I get a coolant system flush?

Your log book will recommend how often your radiator should be flushed, it is generally suggested that you flush your radiator coolant every two years or 40,000 km's whichever comes first. However, the size of your engine, local seasons, the quality of your existing coolant, and the total km's driven can all have an effect on how regular you'll need to replace the coolant in your radiator.

At Kinnane's Car Clinic, 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 level and condition of coolant in your system and the written report will tell you if we feel a radiator flush, coolant replacement or any repairs are necessary to maintain the performance of your vehicle.

What happens if I don't get a radiator flush or service?

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

Can I flush the radiator myself?

While there are many websites and how to's offering advice on how to flush a radiator yourself - Its not something we recommend. Modern vehicles can be complex and mistakes like incomplete flushing or changing the coolant in your vehicle without flushing can cause any deposits to move around more and cause blockages in your thermostat or radiator. It's wise have your systems inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic, and properly flushed before being refilled with coolant of the right specifications, the system purged of any air pockets, and then the whole system reviewed by an expert again to ensure full working order and to prevent any costly breakdowns in the future.

Radiator coolant is toxic and needs to be handled very carefully. It has a sweet smell which can be appealing to your kids and pets so proper storage is very important - letting a trained technician take care of this task 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 showing these symptoms come and see the team at Kinnane's Car Clinic.

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