My 2004 5 speed Matrix needs a new radiator @ 258,000 miles. I've tried to properly service & maintain my car (new clutch @ 250,000; starter @ 235,000), how does flushing a radiator extend the radiator? BTW, car has been in Northern Cal it's entire life. Thanks
Your coolant has chemicals that are anti-corrosive, but can deteriorate over time. If you flush your cooling system, you put in fresh anti-corrosive chemicals, which will keep your radiator and engine clean inside.
Changing it is not just good for the radiator, it's good for the engine, gaskets and hoses and stuff too.
The good news is, it is one of the cheaper and easier things to fix.
You can get a new Denso radiator for about $100, I would go ahead and do the upper and lower radiator hoses and thermostat while you are at it. If you do it yourself, which it isn't that bad at all, you could have all of it done for just over $150 with new coolant.
You may can find a good, cheaper radiator as well.
