Does the car radiator need cleaning?

[MacGage]

Car radiators do need cleaning. Here are the relevant steps: 1. Ensure the engine is cool and turned off. 2. Open the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator to let the coolant flow into a bucket. The coolant should be properly disposed of to avoid environmental harm. 3. Close the drain plug and fill the radiator with water. 4. Start the engine, turn on the heater control system (this will open the heater control valve), add cooling system cleaner, and let the engine idle for 30 minutes (or follow the instructions on the cleaner bottle). 5. Turn off the engine and let it cool for 5 minutes. Drain the liquid from the radiator. 6. Close the drain plug, fill the radiator with water, and let the engine idle for 5 minutes. Then refill with a 50/50 mixture of water and ethylene glycol antifreeze/coolant (use the same type of coolant previously used in the car).

[StJuliana]

I've been driving for almost ten years, and radiator cleaning is absolutely essential. I remember with my first car, I didn't pay attention, and the radiator got clogged with scale, causing the engine to overheat and nearly break down. It cost me over 3,000 yuan to fix. Cleaning removes impurities, prevents blockages in the cooling system, and extends the lifespan of the coolant. Generally, it should be cleaned every two years or 30,000 kilometers, using a dedicated cleaning agent and water rinse. If you're handy, you can do it yourself, but it's safer to leave it to professionals. It also helps prevent engine overheating failures and protects core components. The key is regular maintenance—it saves money and hassle, avoiding unexpected repairs like that incident, while also improving driving reliability.

[CorbinFitz]

As a car enthusiast, radiator cleaning is a crucial step in routine maintenance. The cooling system accumulates rust and scale, blocking water flow and affecting heat dissipation, which can cause engine temperatures to soar. I personally handle it every two years—just pour some radiator cleaner into the system and flush it out. Saves money, right? Much cheaper than repairing an engine. Keep an eye on the coolant color; if it turns reddish or shows sediment, clean it immediately. Prevention is better than cure—long-term neglect of radiator overheating can damage the water pump and radiator. Developing this habit makes your car more durable, so never forget to check the radiator condition during every maintenance session.

[WestonFitz]

The radiator must be cleaned regularly, otherwise serious problems can occur. Accumulated dirt can clog the cooling system, causing the engine to overheat and potentially stop running or even be ruined. It's essential to inspect and clean it every two years, using cleaning agents or visiting a repair shop for a quick solution. Addressing it early saves money and ensures safety—don't wait until a breakdown happens to act urgently.

[VonEden]

From an economic perspective, cleaning the radiator is a cost-effective investment. Neglecting it leads to accelerated wear from scale buildup, with engine overheating repairs costing thousands. Spending a few dozen dollars every two years for a cleaning is very low cost. Whether DIY with cleaning solution or hiring a professional, keeping the coolant flowing smoothly extends the vehicle's lifespan and avoids higher expenses from sudden breakdowns, making it practical maintenance.