BMW vehicles are known for their high engine performance and sleek design. These vehicles are built for the comfort of all drivers and passengers. However, this comfort can be distorted when the vehicle develops issues. For your BMW to work as it was meant to, you have to keep up with the maintenance. Failure to do so will lead to a number of issues. One of the most important pieces of maintenance you must adhere to is the flushing of your BMW radiator.
Your mechanic has undoubtedly advised you at one time or the other to schedule routine maintenance/tune-ups for your radiator. But is it really worth it? Is the radiator service necessary? What exactly does radiator fluid accomplish, and when should you get your radiator flushed? You will only know the importance of a radiator flush once you begin seeing issues with not doing it. This article will help you stay informed on the functions and benefits of a radiator flush.
What Is the Purpose of Radiator Fluid?
Radiator fluid, often known as antifreeze or coolant, does exactly what it sounds like: it keeps the radiator cool. Automobile engines become hot, especially in hot weather, and if there is nothing to disperse the excess heat produced by the engine, your car will overheat and break down.
While the engine coolant is essential, it can accumulate undesired pollutants and particles over time. The coolant in your radiator can cause corrosion in the radiator over time, resulting in scaling, rust, or other debris. This condition is solved with a coolant flush, which is like a transfusion in the cooling system. A flush includes pumping several liters of cleaner and fresh antifreeze through the system to remove any remaining old antifreeze and pollutants.
While emptying the radiator will remove the old antifreeze, it may leave some coolant and impurities behind, and this would mix and pollute the new coolant you want to add.
You need a complete flush, a forceful elimination of everything old to make room for fresh fluid.
Aside from eliminating old antifreeze, cleaning your radiator may also remove rust and scaling and also lubricate and extend the life of the water pump. Furthermore, using the proper additives during your coolant cleanse can help avoid future leaks, corrosion, foaming, and debris buildup.
If you hire a technician to flush your radiators, ensure the technician does a comprehensive cooling system examination to detect and fix any leaks in the system. If your mechanic flushes the radiator and overlooks any leaks, the engine will most likely overheat again soon after.
How Can You Tell If You Need a Radiator Flush?
Several indicators may point to the need for an immediate radiator flush. When your automobile overheats, it usually indicates that there is a coolant leak in the system. If the coolant level appears to be quite full despite the fact that your engine has overheated, flushing the radiator is definitely a smart idea.
Other indications that a radiator cleansing is required right away include coolant seeping beneath your car, knocking or grinding engine sounds, and visible particles in the coolant.
How Frequent Should You Flush Your Radiator?
The frequency with which you should cleanse your radiators varies. Some experts suggest every 5 years, some 3, and even others yearly. Most experts believe that if you have a new automobile with fewer than 10,000 miles, you should avoid doing a radiator flush for the first year. You can try every 30,000 miles or based on the suggested schedule in your owner’s handbook.
Benefits Of Radiator Flush
We have mentioned most of the benefits in the discussion above, but to summarize, here are the key benefits to note:
- Removes Scale and Rust Deposits
- Lubricates Water Pump
- Removes Contaminants
- Makes coolant more effective
Get Help From The Certified Mechanics At Turning Wrenches
The benefits of carrying out a radiator flush in your BMW are numerous. You can come to us at Turning Wrenches if you need a trusted garage to flush your BMW’s radiator. We have qualified mechanics with years of experience working on the BMW brand. Our experts can take care of any problem in your car. You can call us now or stop by our shop located in Louisville, KY. We look forward to earning your business.