How to Change Radiator Fluid in a 2002 Toyota Solara

Draining the radiator will help remove sludge.

If you need to change the radiator fluid in a 2002 Toyota Solara it is most likely caused by the fact that engine build up has caused the radiator fluid to accumulate sludge on the inside of the radiator. The result is engine overheating and eventually engine failure. Changing the fluid in the Solara is not overly complicated and it will help reduce the amount of sludge in the cooling system.

Things You'll Need

• Ramps
• Wheel chuck
• Bucket
• Pliers
• Funnel
• 3 gallons of distilled water
• 3 gallons of radiator fluid

Instructions

1. Drive the Solara onto a set of car ramps and set the parking break to secure the vehicle. Placing the car on ramps gives more room under the vehicle to place a bucket under the radiator. You can forgo the ramps and use a large oil drainage pan. They are shallower but larger in diameter. It will fit under the radiator without ramps.

2. Place the bucket or drainage pan under the radiator drain that is located on the left hand side of the radiator.

3. Remove the drainage plug by turning the plug counterclockwise. The fluid will drain into the bucket. Once drained, tighten the plug by turning it clockwise.

4. Open the radiator cap and place a funnel into the hole.

5. Drain three gallons of distilled water into the radiator and then place three gallons of radiator fluid into the radiator.

6. Start the engine with the radiator cap off the radiator. Allow the engine to run for five minutes to remove any trapped air from the cooling system. Stop the engine and place the cap back onto the radiator.

References

• "Toyota Solara Repair Manual Years 2002 to 2006;" Haynes; 2007