We've all probably seen, (or been) that unfortunate driver or group of passengers broken down on the side of the road, standing around an overheated vehicle and sweltering in the summer heat so typical to Australia.

But hot weather isn't the only reason your car can overheat. Your engine produces a lot of heat through it's normal operation, regardless of outside temperatures and it's the radiator and cooling system that keeps your car, and you, from being damaged by all that heat. Coolant fluid in the system allows the rapid cooling of that heat and also prevents liquids from freezing while protecting the system from rust and corrosion as well.

A gradual build up of rust and debris can impact the performance of your cooling system and can also damage the important parts of the cooling system including your water pump, radiator, hoses and thermostat.

Petrie Mechanical Repairs can service your cooling system and flush your radiator where it is deemed necessary. Our fully trained and experienced mechanics will perform a radiator flush using a dedicated solution designed to remove any build up of rust or debris in the system. When the cooling system has been fully cleaned out fresh coolant is added and the system checked for leaks or any other problems.

Your radiator will run more efficiently and have an increased life expectancy. Your will increase your engines efficiency and life expectancy. Engine performance and power will be boosted. The water pump will last longer due to better protection and lubrication..

Your car's log book will outline how often your radiator system should be flushed, It is commonly suggested that you flush your radiator coolant every two years or 40,000 km's whichever comes first. However, your engine type and size, regional weather, the age of your existing coolant, and the total distance driven can all affect the need to replace the coolant in your radiator.

At Petrie Mechanical Repairs, you can request a full 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report for free as part of any minor, major or log book service on your vehicle. This includes checking the coolant in your system and the written report will tell you if we feel a radiator flush, coolant replacement or any repairs are recommended to maintain the safety and performance of your vehicle.

Websites and How-To's are around giving advice on how to flush a radiator yourself - we don't recommend it. These days, vehicles are much more complex and mistakes like incomplete flushing or changing the coolant in your vehicle without flushing can stir up even more particles and cause blockages in your thermostat or radiator. It's sensible to have your systems examined regularly by a qualified mechanic, and properly flushed before being refilled with the right type of coolant, the system purged of any air pockets, and then the whole system expertly reviewed again to ensure full working order and to prevent any costly breakdowns in the future.

Radiator coolant is actually quite toxic and needs to be handled very carefully to avoid harming the environment. It is also very sweet smelling which can be attractive to young children and family pets, so proper storage is very important. Letting a trained technician take care of this task means not handling or having dangerous chemicals around your house. Coolant also needs to be disposed of correctly and professional workshops can have the coolant recycled or properly disposed of to help save the environment.