If you're thinking about skipping your next system service, stop right there. Here are the four major benefits of keeping up with a radiator flush.
Scale Build-Up and Contaminants are Removed
As you put more miles on your car, it is more likely to wear quicker. Contaminants start to build up within the cooling system, which creates scale and rust deposits. The latter can compromise how well the coolant flows, resulting in the vehicle overheating. This can then cause damage to both the radiator and the engine.
Regular services will prevent this from happening, which will avoid expensive repairs in the future.
The Water Pump is Lubricated
When your water pump is well-lubricated, it will work efficiently. This results in an extended lifespan of the pump and reduces any risk of damage to your engine. Antifreeze (or coolant) has essential additives that keep the pump lubricated, which is why it's important to come in for services regularly.
When your vehicle is in for a radiator flush, a certified technician will perform an in-depth inspection of your cooling system. Not only will they take on the traditional maintenance service jobs, but they'll also be able to tell if there's anything wrong with the rest of the system.
For example, they will conduct pressure tests to ensure there are no leaks or holes; if there are, they will be able to fix them before they get worse.
Not only will the technician be able to give you peace of mind that everything is running smoothly (and if not, they'll recommend something for you), but they will also keep you in the know of how your cooling system functions and what services you may require in the future.
Short answer - yes. Your system runs on a mixture of coolant (or antifreeze) and water. This is what helps the motor to reduce temperature. It's important not to miss your cooling system service to avoid your engine suffering any damage.
Your vehicle's coolant capacity is largely what determines how much the coolant flush will cost, plus whether or not the system gets flushed with detergents or chemicals before refilling. For most vehicles, an average service will cost between $100 and $150.
According to the NARSA (The National Automotive Radiator Service Association), a professional should service your vehicle's cooling system at least once every two years. This maintenance check ensures your car is running as it should and catches any issues early before they become too severe.