A radiator is an important part of your car engine's cooling system, allowing water or coolant to circulate through a network of small tubes that are cooled by incoming air. The water or coolant cycles around the hot engine, absorbing the heat and cooling off the metal parts and moving the heat into the radiator to be released before the water or coolant circulates again. Buildup from the heated metal and the evaporating water or coolant can clog the radiator over time and restrict flow. Radiator fins can accumulate dirt, road grime, bugs, pebbles, and other debris, reducing efficiency.
Many manufacturers recommend cleaning the exterior of your car's radiator at least once a year. In addition, perform a complete radiator flush every five years to maintain the functionality of your vehicle's cooling system.
To avoid damaging the radiator and engine, choosing the right cleaning product is important. Avoid using vinegar as the acetic acid makes metal susceptible to corrosion and rust. Bleach should also never be used, since sodium hypochlorite will corrode metals such as steel and aluminum. Vinegar and bleach can damage the vehicle's intake manifold, engine block, or cylinder head, and degrade the rubber gaskets and seals.
Simple Green Pro HD Heavy-Duty Cleaner is a safer alternative to harsh chemicals and solvents. It is non-corrosive and suitable for cleaning aluminum, stainless steel, and other metals. Its professional-grade, engine-compatible formula breaks down tough grease, oil, road grime, and other automotive residues, making it the ideal choice for cleaning your radiator.
Directions for Cleaning a Radiator:
Radiator Fins
Tip: Check the owner's manual before cleaning the radiator fins. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance. Ensure the radiator fins are cool to the touch before cleaning.
Dilute. In a dilution bottle or empty spray bottle, mix 1 part Simple Green Pro HD Heavy-Duty Cleaner to 3 parts water (1:3 ratio) and lightly shake to mix the solution.
Remove debris. Use a soft bristled brush to gently clear small rocks, bugs , and other debris caught in the radiator fins. If the fins are bent, use a flathead screwdriver to gently straighten them back in place.
Rinse. Using a low pressure garden hose or a bucket of clean water to gently rinse the radiator from the back side. If the water does not run clear after rinsing, repeat steps 1-3.
Dry. Allow the radiator fins to air dry completely before operating the vehicle.
Radiator
Tip: Check vehicle's owner's manual before flushing the radiator. Make sure the radiator is cool to the touch before opening the radiator cap.
Dilute. In a large bucket or container, mix 1 part Simple Green Simple Green Pro HD Heavy-Duty Cleaner to 15 parts water (1:15 ratio), enough to fill your radiator. Stir or swirl the solution to mix everything together.
Tip: Most 4-cylinder vehicles have a capacity around one gallon.
Drain radiator. Place a drain pan or other container beneath the radiator drain valve (petcock). Remove the fill cap from the top of the radiator. Use gloves or pliers to open the drain valve on the bottom of your car's radiator and allow the coolant to drain completely. Dispose of the fluid properly. Securely close the drain valve.
Pour cleaner. Slowly pour the cleaner into the opening at the top of the radiator. Securely close the radiator cap and allow the solution to sit in the radiator for 5 minutes.
Start engine. Turn on the vehicle and let the engine run for 5-15 minutes to allow the cleaner to cycle through the system. The engine needs to reach the normal operating temperature in order for the thermostat to open and let coolant flow from the radiator to and through the engine and back again.
Drain cleaning solution. Turn off the engine and allow it to cool. Open the drain valve and let the cleaning solution drain completely. Once draining is finished, securely close the drain valve. Dispose of the drained fluid properly.
Rinse the radiator. Fill the radiator with clean water (distilled or non-mineralized water is preferred). Start the engine and allow it to idle for five minutes so that the water circulates through the system. Then, turn off the engine, open the drain valve, and allow the water to drain completely. Repeat this process until the water runs clear, free of residue, and there is no foaming.
Add coolant. Check the owner's manual and add the recommended amount of coolant to the radiator.
