Home Remedies For How to Clean a Clogged Car Radiator

The radiator is an integral part of your car's engine. Radiators prevent your car from overheating by removing heat from the hot water that travels through your cooling system. When a car sits idle for long periods of time, or the fluid is never changed, sediment and rust can build up inside your radiator. This will cause the radiator to become clogged, and it will work far less efficiently. It is a good idea to clean a clogged radiator as soon as you recognize the problem. Luckily, it is a job that can be done fairly simply at home.

Instructions

1

Remove the radiator cap from the top and drain the water from your radiator by also removing the cap from the bottom of the radiator.

2

Watch to see if the water that is draining is clean or dirty. Remove the radiator hose and inspect it for any damage. If it is cracked or worn, you will have to purchase a new one.

3

Place a garden hose into the top of the radiator and let the water run through for several minutes. Your goal is for the water to be running clear out the bottom of the radiator.

4

Insert the hose into the bottom hole of the radiator to perform a reverse flush. Sediment can build up on the engine cooling jacket and need to be removed.

5

Reconnect or replace the hose and replace the bottom cap. Add coolant to the radiator and allow your engine to run for a few minutes to check for leaks.