Radiator Flush in Waupaca, WI

A radiator flush is a maintenance service where old coolant is drained from your vehicle’s radiator. The cooling system is thoroughly flushed to remove debris, rust and other contaminants.

After flushing, we add fresh coolant. Radiator flushes are essential to protect your engine and cooling components from corrosion and overheating, and they ensure your entire cooling system operates smoothly, especially in extreme temperatures.

Always check your owner’s manual for the recommended interval for your specific model. Most manufacturers recommend a radiator flush every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, or every 2-5 years.

Driving conditions also make a difference. If you drive in extreme heat or traffic with frequent stops, you may need a radiator flush more often. Some newer vehicles have extended-life coolant that can go longer between flushes.

A radiator flush can be a DIY project if you have basic mechanical skills and the proper tools, including a hose, bucket and new coolant. Hiring a professional, however, will ensure the flush is thorough.

We’ll also check for any underlying cooling system issues, such as leaks or damaged components. We have access to specialized equipment that can remove debris more effectively, increasing the longevity of your radiator and engine.

Common signs your car might need a radiator flush include:

• Overheating: If your engine frequently overheats, old or contaminated coolant could be the cause.
• 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: Fluctuating engine temperature can indicate that coolant is not circulating efficiently because of buildup or blockages.
• Rusty or Dirty Coolant: If your coolant appears discolored, rusty or has visible debris, a flush is likely overdue.
• Coolant Leaks: Puddles of coolant under your car may indicate a cooling system issue that could benefit from a flush.

The cost of a radiator flush varies based on vehicle type and other factors. DIY flushes often cost between $15 and $40 for the coolant and supplies.

In general, a radiator flush performed by a mechanic starts around $75 and could be more depending on the type of car or truck. A professional flush, however, can catch any additional cooling system issues and provide peace of mind.

No—they are similar but not the same. A coolant exchange generally involves draining and refilling the coolant without thoroughly flushing out all the contaminants in the system.

A radiator flush uses a flushing solution to clean out old coolant, debris and rust before adding new coolant. It’s more comprehensive and provides a deeper clean, making it the better option if your system has a buildup of contaminants.

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, which is typically used in older vehicles.
• Organic Acid Technology (OAT) or Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolants, common in modern cars.

Always refer to your owner’s manual to confirm the recommended coolant type and color, as using the wrong type can damage the cooling system. 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 issue may be with another part of the cooling system, such as a faulty thermostat, water pump or cooling fan, which would need to be inspected and repaired.

Older vehicles with a poorly maintained cooling system may face some risks during a radiator flush. The flush can dislodge large pieces of rust or scale, which could cause blockages or even leaks in weakened areas.

Additionally, if seals or hoses are already degraded, they might fail after the flush. If you have an older vehicle, consult a mechanic like Matthews Tire before performing a flush. We can help determine if any parts should be replaced to prevent potential issues.