What is the method for cleaning a car radiator?
3 Answers
The method for cleaning a car radiator is: 1. Use a professional car radiator descaler which can clean without disassembly, even while the car is running; 2. Directly pour the cleaning agent into the car's water circulation system and let it soak, then idle or drive for 20 to 30 minutes; 3. Drain the descaler from the radiator and system, then rinse repeatedly with water to effectively remove scale, rust, sludge, and various harmful substances from the engine's water circulation system. The car radiator is located behind the air conditioning condenser. Opening the engine compartment will reveal the radiator's upper cover, and removing the front bumper cover will clearly show the radiator's position.
I often clean my car's radiator myself, mainly to prevent rust and clogging, and the method is quite simple. First, wait for the engine to cool completely—touching it while hot can burn your hands. Use a container to catch the old coolant, then unscrew the drain plug to let it all out. Next, pour in a bottle of radiator cleaner and add distilled water (avoid tap water to prevent worse scaling). Start the engine and let it run for 15 to 20 minutes to circulate the cleaner, which helps dissolve rust and deposits inside. After turning off the engine, drain everything thoroughly to ensure all dirty water is removed. Finally, refill with new antifreeze to the proper level, tighten the cap, and you're done. The whole process takes about an hour. I do this every two years to keep the cooling system efficient, avoid overheating issues, and save money. I recommend using professional brand products to minimize risks.
I'm quite proficient in radiator cleaning, having gone through the process several times and summarized the steps. First, ensure the engine is cool for safety—always the top priority—then drain the old coolant into a bucket for eco-friendly disposal. Next, add cleaner and water, run the engine to circulate the liquid and dissolve deposits. Afterward, drain and flush, then refill with new antifreeze to prevent freezing and corrosion. I regularly check the radiator cap and hose seals to prevent leaks. Routine cleaning helps the engine cool faster and maintains stable cooling performance during long summer drives. Using distilled water is recommended to avoid mineral buildup, and keeping everything wiped clean with a cloth prevents messes. Simple maintenance can save you repair hassles and extend your car's lifespan—I've never had overheating issues thanks to this routine.
