Radiator Flush in Menasha, WI

Radiator flushes are essential to prevent engine damage caused by inefficient cooling. They ensure the entire cooling system operates smoothly, especially in extreme temperatures.

During a radiator flush, we drain the old coolant from your vehicle’s radiator. Then, we flush the cooling system thoroughly to remove debris, rust and other contaminants.

Finally, we add fresh coolant, which protects your engine and cooling components from corrosion and overheating.

How often your vehicle needs a radiator flush depends on its model and driving conditions. Most manufacturers recommend flushing the radiator every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, which is about every 2-5 years.

However, if you drive in harsh conditions like extreme heat or traffic with frequent stops, you might need to flush the radiator more frequently. Always check your owner’s manual for the recommended interval for your specific model.

Common signs your car might need a radiator flush include:

• Overheating: Frequently overheating may mean you have old or contaminated coolant.

• Rusty or Dirty Coolant: If your coolant appears discolored, rusty, or has visible debris, your vehicle is likely overdue for a flush.

• Coolant Leaks: Puddles of coolant under your car can be a sign that your vehicle has a cooling system issue and could benefit from a flush.

• Poor Heater Performance: If the heater isn’t warming up like it used to, it could be because of clogs or low-quality coolant.

• Frequent Temperature Fluctuations: This can mean that your coolant is not circulating efficiently, perhaps due to build up or blockages.

The cost of a radiator flush varies. Factors such as location, vehicle type, and whether you make it a DIY project or hire a professional all can impact price.

Generally, DIY flushes cost between $15 and $40 for the coolant and supplies. When a mechanic performs a radiator flush, pricing usually starts around $75 and could be more depending on the type of vehicle you drive.

Keep in mind, a professional flush can catch any additional cooling system issues.

Skipping regular radiator flushes can lead to a range of cooling system and engine problems, including buildup in the cooling system. Old coolant loses its protective properties, leading to rust and corrosion in the radiator, water pump and other components.

You could experience cooling system failure from clogged hoses and damaged seals. A neglected cooling system can damage the engine, resulting in costly repairs far exceeding the cost of a simple radiator flush.

No—they’re similar but not the same. A coolant exchange generally involves draining and refilling the coolant without thoroughly flushing the system of contaminants before adding new coolant.

A radiator flush, on the other hand, involves using a flushing solution to clean out old coolant, debris and rust. If your system has a buildup of contaminants, a radiator flush is more comprehensive and provides a deeper clean, making it the better option.

The type of coolant you need depends on your vehicle’s make and model, as different cars require different coolant formulations. There are two main types of coolant:

• Inorganic Additive Technology (IAT) coolant, typically used in older vehicles.
• Organic Acid Technology (OAT) or Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolants, common in modern cars.

Using the wrong type can damage the cooling system. Always refer to your owner’s manual to see the recommended coolant type and color. Your mechanic can also guide you to the right choice during a radiator flush service.

A radiator flush can often help with overheating issues. By removing debris and restoring the coolant’s effectiveness, a flush can improve heat dissipation and help regulate engine temperature.

If your car continues to overheat after a radiator flush, the problem could be a faulty thermostat, water pump or cooling fan, which would need to be inspected and repaired.

If you have an older vehicle, consult a mechanic like Matthews Tire before performing a flush. Older vehicles with a poorly maintained cooling system could end up with large pieces of rust or scale, causing blockages or even leaks in weakened areas.

If seals or hoses are already degraded, they might fail after the flush. We can assess the condition of the cooling system and determine if any parts should be replaced to prevent potential issues.