How to Clean the Exterior of a Car Radiator?
2 Answers
Car radiator exterior cleaning methods are as follows: 1. Remove the radiator for cleaning, separate the radiator and condenser, use a brush to clean the dirt in the gaps, then rinse the surface with clean water. Be careful not to damage the aluminum fins and water pipes, as the aluminum fins are easily deformed and can break with a little force. Excessive damage to the aluminum fins can lead to poor heat dissipation. 2. Professional high-pressure cleaning vehicle radiator descaler: Pour the specialized scale remover into the high-pressure cleaning vehicle's water circulation system, let it soak, idle cycle, or drive for 20-30 minutes, then drain the descaler from the radiator and system, and rinse repeatedly with clean water until clean.
Previously, after my car had been on a long-distance trip, the radiator was covered with dust and dead insects, so I decided to clean it myself. The specific steps were: first, ensure the engine is completely cooled for at least half an hour to prevent burns; then, use a garden hose set to low pressure to rinse off surface dirt—avoid using a high-pressure washer, as it could bend the radiator fins. Next, gently scrub off stubborn residue with a soft-bristle toothbrush or a dedicated car soft brush; using a solution of warm water and mild car soap is even better, but be gentle to avoid scratching the metal. Finally, rinse thoroughly and let it air-dry naturally. The entire process took about 15 minutes. After completion, I checked the radiator to ensure no dirt or blockages remained, and the cooling efficiency improved noticeably, helping prevent engine overheating issues. I recommend checking it quarterly, especially after dusty seasons, to maintain this simple and cost-effective cleaning habit.
