Some maintenance services, like oil changes, are required often to maintain a vehicle’s health. And others are required less often but considered just as crucial. If you have had your car or truck for a few years, you may have heard the term “coolant flush.” So, what is coolant, and what does it do? In this piece, we’ll get you in the know!
What is coolant, and what does it do?
Quite simply, Coolant cools your engine. Your vehicle’s engine runs hot, especially during the warmer months, and requires a cooling system to keep it operating at an optimal temperature. In most cars and trucks, the cooling system works by circulating radiator fluid (a mixture of coolant and water) through the engine, which will absorb the heat and cool the engine. Coolant also contains antifreeze, which is crucial for the colder months in the Sterling, VA area. Without the proper mixture, the engine block runs the risk of dire damage in below-freezing temperatures.
What is a radiator/coolant flush?
Like any other fluid which runs through a system, radiator fluid (coolant) will collect debris and contaminants over time. It moves along and collects unwanted particulates that can cause corrosion within the radiator and engine and even generate rust. As you can imagine, you do not want your radiator and engine to corrode. A coolant flush will help fight this type of corrosion. Think of it like dialysis or a blood transfusion, but for your vehicle.
If you were to drain the radiator simply, you’d risk leaving the bad stuff behind. That is why you want a flush, which will force antifreeze, cleaner, and water through the system, pushing out contaminants.
How often do I need a coolant flush?
Casey’s team in Sterling, VA recommends you have your coolant flushed around 50,000 miles, or when coolant loses its freezing ability or is dirty. Depending on how often you drive and the distances you travel, fluid flushes are done either every few years or after a certain number of miles.
Coolant & Fluid Flushes at Casey’s Automotive in Sterling, Virginia
Fluids such as brakes/hydraulic fluid, power steering, fuel injection, and transmission flushes are also some of the flushes we provide. Each varies depending on you and your vehicle, but all or necessary for its health. When you come into Casey’s for any service, we check all of your fluids and provide you with a complimentary inspection.
