How to Drain the Water from the Radiator?
2 Answers
Drain the existing water from the radiator. There is a drain valve at the bottom of the radiator. For some vehicle models, it is also necessary to drain the water from the engine block, where there is a drain plug. There is a drain valve at the bottom of the radiator. After draining the water, tighten it and add antifreeze. Simply open the drain valve at the bottom of the radiator. "Antifreeze" is a chemical solution with a low freezing point, which can drop below -60 degrees Celsius. It will not freeze due to low temperatures and will not damage the engine.
Draining the radiator is actually quite simple, but you need to be careful because the coolant can burn you when it's hot. When I do it at home, I wear thick gloves. The first step is to wait at least half an hour after the engine is turned off to ensure it's cool before touching the radiator cap. Usually, there's a drain plug at the bottom front or side of the radiator—use a wrench to slowly loosen it. Remember to place a large basin or bucket to catch the old fluid—it's toxic and shouldn't be poured down the drain; it needs to be disposed of at a specialized recycling station. Once loosened, the fluid will slowly drain out, which takes a few minutes. After it's completely drained, tighten the plug and add new coolant. Don't rush the process; leaks or stuck parts can easily cause injuries. It's also a good idea to check the water pump and hoses for rust while you're at it. Regularly changing the fluid helps prevent overheating issues. I think this DIY task saves money and extends the car's lifespan, but if you're inexperienced, it's best to ask a friend for help.