Dirty Coolant Reservoir? Clean It Yourself in Minutes with This Easy Trick!

Maintaining a clean coolant reservoir tank is crucial for the optimal functioning of your vehicle’s cooling system. A dirty tank can lead to overheating, corrosion, and premature component failure. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the step-by-step process of cleaning a coolant reservoir tank, ensuring a smooth and efficient cooling system for your car.

Materials Required

Before you begin, gather the necessary materials:

• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Clean rags or paper towels
• Coolant (of the recommended type for your vehicle)
• Distilled water
• Funnel
• Wrench or pliers

Step 1: Safety Precautions

• Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from coolant spills.
• Allow the engine to cool completely before starting.
• Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.

Step 2: Locate the Coolant Reservoir Tank

• Open the hood and locate the coolant reservoir tank. It is typically a translucent plastic container with a cap or lid.
• The reservoir tank is usually located near the radiator or engine compartment.

Step 3: Drain the Coolant

• Place a drain pan under the coolant reservoir tank.
• Open the drain valve or plug at the bottom of the tank.
• Allow the coolant to drain completely into the pan.

Step 4: Clean the Reservoir Tank

• Use clean rags or paper towels to wipe down the inside of the reservoir tank.
• Remove any visible dirt, debris, or rust.
• If the tank is heavily soiled, you can use a mild detergent mixed with distilled water to clean it.
• Rinse the tank thoroughly with distilled water to remove any remaining detergent.

Step 5: Inspect the Reservoir Tank

• Inspect the reservoir tank for any cracks, leaks, or damage.
• If any damage is found, replace the tank with a new one.

Step 6: Fill with Coolant

• Fill the reservoir tank with the recommended type of coolant.
• Use a funnel to prevent spills.
• Fill the tank to the indicated level, usually marked on the tank’s side.

Step 7: Top Up with Distilled Water

• Top up the remaining space in the reservoir tank with distilled water.
• This helps to prevent corrosion and extend the life of the coolant.

Step 8: Tighten the Cap

• Tighten the cap or lid of the reservoir tank securely.
• Check for any leaks around the cap.

Step 9: Dispose of Old Coolant

• Properly dispose of the old coolant according to your local regulations.
• Do not pour coolant down the drain or on the ground.

Troubleshooting

• Coolant leak: If you notice a leak from the reservoir tank, tighten the cap or replace the tank if necessary.
• Overheating: A dirty reservoir tank can lead to overheating. Clean the tank and ensure the coolant level is correct.
• Corrosion: Rust or corrosion in the reservoir tank can contaminate the coolant. Clean the tank and replace the coolant.

Benefits of Cleaning the Coolant Reservoir Tank

• Prevents overheating
• Prolongs the life of the coolant
• Reduces corrosion and component failure
• Maintains optimal cooling system performance

Wrapping Up

Cleaning the coolant reservoir tank is a simple yet essential task that can significantly improve the health of your vehicle’s cooling system. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure a clean and efficient coolant reservoir tank, providing your car with the necessary cooling it needs for reliable performance.

Common Questions and Answers

1. How often should I clean the coolant reservoir tank?

• It is recommended to clean the coolant reservoir tank every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

2. Can I use regular water to clean the coolant reservoir tank?

• No, it is not recommended to use regular water as it can contain minerals that can damage the cooling system. Use distilled water instead.

3. What type of coolant should I use?

• Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended type of coolant. Do not mix different types of coolants.