How to Use Radiator Cleaner?
3 Answers
Start the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature, then turn off the engine. Open the radiator cap, shake the radiator cleaner produced by a reputable manufacturer well, and add it to the radiator at a ratio of one bottle to 5-24 liters of water. Start the engine and let it idle at normal temperature for 20-30 minutes, keeping the thermostat valve at its highest point. Turn off the engine, drain the original coolant from the radiator, and flush the radiator with clean water until the discharged water is clear (free of rust and dirt).
Using a radiator cleaner is quite straightforward. As someone who enjoys hands-on car maintenance, I just did this a few days ago. First, make sure the engine is completely cooled down—never do this when it's hot to avoid burns. Then, open the hood and locate the radiator drain valve or the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator. Carefully drain the old coolant—it's best to use a bucket to catch it and avoid spills. Shake the radiator cleaner well before pouring it in, and add the amount specified on the product label—usually a small bottle is enough. Next, fill the system with clean water, start the engine, and let it run for about 10 minutes to allow the cleaner to circulate and remove dirt and rust deposits. Remember not to exceed 20 minutes, as over-cleaning could damage components. After that, turn off the engine and drain all the fluid again, including any residual rinse water. Finally, refill with fresh coolant to the correct level and check for leaks—then you're done. Regular cleaning like this can extend the system's lifespan and save you money on major replacements. Personally, I find DIY maintenance convenient, but always have gloves on hand for protection.
Safety is paramount when using cleaning agents. I once encountered a situation where a new car owner nearly caused an accident due to improper operation. Never touch the drain port when the engine is hot, as hot fluid spraying out is very dangerous. Always wear protective gloves and goggles. Choose an open area to drain the old coolant to prevent environmental pollution. After adding the cleaning agent, don’t run the vehicle for too long—about 15 minutes is sufficient. Running it longer can easily damage the pipes due to air bubble issues. When rinsing, make sure to use plenty of clean water several times; otherwise, residual cleaning agent may corrode the newly added fluid. I also recommend beginners use simple formula products and avoid strong chemicals to prevent rust chunks from clogging the pipes. If the rinse fluid still appears dirty, it may indicate severe buildup requiring professional repair. In short, take it step by step and don’t rush. After completion, test to ensure the temperature is normal. If unsure, take it to a shop and let someone else handle it. Regular maintenance like this once every year or two can prevent major malfunctions.
