How to Flush the Radiator in a Toyota Tundra

The daily wear and tear on a Toyota Tundra can take its toll on the engine and coolant system. To combat this problem, it's important that you perform regularly scheduled maintenance. For instance, every other year the truck's radiator requires flushing to keep it working properly. This flushing is relatively easy and most anyone can do it.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

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

Suggest Edits

1. • 1

     Park the Toyota Tundra on a level surface and set the parking brake. Then, with the engine off, touch the radiator to gauge its temperature. If the radiator is still warm, allow it to cool off before you start Step 2.

   • 2

     Twist the radiator cap one full turn, pause for a few seconds and then fully remove the cap. You want to pause to relieve any internal pressure inside the radiator. Opening a pressurized or hot radiator can cause it to spew hot coolant and burn anyone it comes into contact with.

   • 3

     Position a bucket or tray with a two-gallon capacity underneath the radiator, below the drain plug. To access the drain plug, you may have to remove the plastic engine undercover, which should be on the driver's side of the Toyota Tundra's radiator. Use a socket wrench to open the plug.

   • 4

     Open the drain plug and allow the existing coolant to drain completely into the bucket. Once complete, pour the old coolant into a sealable container for proper disposal.

   • 5

     Put the drain bucket back under the radiator and close the drain plug. Then, fill the radiator with distilled water. Next, open the drain plug to let the water flow into the bucket. Replicate this procedure until the water runs debris free out the radiator.

   • 6

     Replace the radiator drain plug and pour fresh coolant into the radiator until it's within an inch of overflowing. With the Toyota Tundra, you need to use the same coolant that came with the truck. Most likely, it is Toyota Long Life red coolant, but consult the owner's manual to be sure.

   • 7

     Start the engine of the Tundra and turn the heating fan to high. Allow it to run until the cooling fan turns on two separate times.

   • 8

     Switch the Toyato Tundra off and check the coolant level. If it is lower than before, add more coolant. If not, put the radiator cap back on and close the hood.

Tips & Warnings

• You will need 2 gallons of coolant for the four-valve Toyota Tundra and 3 gallons of coolant for the six-valve model.

• Using tap water from a hose is an alternative to flushing with distilled water, but tap water can leave sediments behind that can damage your coolant system.

• Because coolant is extremely toxic to people and pets, it's imperative that you dispose of the old coolant properly.