How to Flush the Radiator in a Mitsubishi Eclipse

In order to keep the cooling system in a Mitsubishi Eclipse running at its peak efficiency, an owner should perform routine maintenance, including flushing of the radiator. During normal operation, substances can start to accumulate in the car's cooling system and flushing the radiator is the only way to rid the automobile of this potentially problematic issue.

Things You'll Need

• Distilled water
• Sealable container
• Bucket
• Socket wrench
• Coolant

Instructions

1. Park the Mitsubishi Eclipse on a level area and engage the parking brake. Pop the hood and check the external temperature of the radiator. If the radiator is hot or even warm to the touch, wait for it to cool off before you continue.

2. Turn the radiator cap one full turn and step back. This relieves any internal pressure inside the radiator. Next, carefully remove the radiator cap. Even though you relieved most of the radiator pressure with the first turn, there can still be some remaining inside the radiator.

3. Position a bucket or tray with a capacity of at least two gallons underneath the radiator and below the drain plug. The drain plug on a Mitsubishi Eclipse is on the passenger side at the bottom of the radiator.

4. Use a socket wrench to remove the drain plug and allow the old coolant to drain into the bucket. Upon completion, pour the old coolant into a sealable container for proper removal.

5. Shut the drain plug and pour distilled water into the radiator until it's full. Then, put the bucket back under the car, open the drain plug and let the water drain. Repeat this procedure until the water runs free of debris out of the radiator. This requires about 3 gallons of distilled water.

6. Close the drain plug and refill the radiator with fresh coolant. Fill the radiator to within an inch of overflowing. Inspect the drain plug, hoses, and clamps for possible leaks.

7. Start the Mitsubishi Eclipse and turn the heater to high. Let it run for about 10 minutes and then shut off the engine. Check to see if the coolant level went down. Add more coolant, if necessary. Finally, put the radiator cap back in place and close the hood.

Tips & Warnings

• You can use tap water from a garden hose for the flush, but you run the risk of leaving sediments behind that can damage your coolant system. Be sure to dispose of the flush water properly.

• Be very careful when you dispose of the radiator coolant, because it's very toxic to people and pets. Take it to an automotive hazardous waste collection center for the safest means of disposal.