If you’ve been ignoring your radiator maintenance, you’re not alone—but your vehicle might not thank you for it. A radiator flush is a crucial part of your car’s cooling system maintenance. Especially in Calgary, where temperature extremes are the norm, skipping a radiator flush can lead to serious engine damage and unexpected breakdowns.
Let’s explore the consequences of not flushing your radiator, how often you should do it, and whether a radiator flush can unclog your heater core.
Why Is a Radiator Flush Important?
Your vehicle’s radiator keeps the engine cool by circulating antifreeze (coolant). Over time, coolant breaks down and becomes contaminated with rust, scale, and debris. Without routine flushing, these contaminants can clog your radiator and heater core, cause overheating, and even damage the engine.
What Happens If You Skip a Radiator Flush?
Here’s what you risk by skipping a radiator flush:
1. Overheating Engine
Old or dirty coolant can’t effectively transfer heat. This puts your engine at risk of overheating—especially during Calgary’s hot summers or after long drives in the mountains.
2. Clogged Heater Core and Radiator
Sediment build-up can clog the heater core, preventing warm air from entering your cabin. It can also restrict coolant flow, reducing the overall efficiency of your cooling system.
3. Corrosion and Rust
Coolant contains additives that prevent corrosion. When coolant becomes old, it loses these protective properties, allowing rust to form inside the radiator and engine components.
4. Reduced Fuel Efficiency
An overheating engine works harder, which in turn consumes more fuel. Skipping radiator flushes can reduce fuel economy and performance.
5. Costly Repairs
Letting contaminants build up for too long can lead to cracked engine blocks, damaged gaskets, or a blown head gasket—all expensive repairs that can often be avoided with a routine flush.
How Often to Flush Radiator?
At Urban Lube Calgary, we recommend flushing your radiator:
- Every 2 to 3 years or
- Every 50,000 to 80,000 kilometres, depending on your vehicle make, model, and driving habits.
If you regularly drive in Calgary’s harsh winters or take long mountain drives, your vehicle may need more frequent coolant flushes.
Tip: Always check your owner’s manual or ask Urban Lube technician for the best schedule.
Will a Radiator Flush Unclog Heater Core?
A radiator flush can help remove minor blockages in the heater core, especially if the problem is caused by old, sludgy coolant. However, if your heater core is severely clogged, a flush might not be enough. In that case, you may need a professional cleaning or even a replacement.
Symptoms of a clogged heater core include:
- No heat or weak heat inside the cabin
- Sweet smell inside your car (coolant leak)
- Foggy windows
- Coolant leaking on the passenger floor
If you experience any of these issues, don’t wait—bring your car to Urban Lube Calgary for a thorough diagnosis.
Keep Your Cooling System in Peak Condition – Trust Urban Lube, Calgary
Whether you drive a car, truck, or SUV, regular radiator flushes keep your engine cool and your wallet happy. Urban Lube offer affordable radiator flush services in Calgary performed by certified professionals.
- Fast service
- Affordable pricing
- Top-quality coolant
- Locally trusted since day one
Book Your Radiator Flush in Calgary Today!
Avoid the risk of breakdowns and costly repairs—schedule your radiator flush with Urban Lube now. We’re here to keep your vehicle engines running smoothly all year long.
Call Us or Book Online.
FAQs
How long does it take to flush a coolant system?
A professional coolant system flush typically takes about 30 minutes to 45 minutes. This includes draining the old coolant, cleaning the system to remove rust and debris, and refilling it with fresh, high-quality antifreeze.
Is a radiator flush necessary?
Yes, a radiator flush is necessary for maintaining your vehicle’s cooling system and engine health. Over time, coolant breaks down and becomes contaminated, which can lead to clogs, corrosion, overheating, and even costly engine damage. A routine flush prevents these issues and helps your car perform efficiently—especially important in Calgary’s extreme weather conditions.
