Coolant System Flushing: Flushing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: Do not use a chemical flush.
Store used coolant in the proper manner, such as in a used engine coolant holding tank. Do not pour used coolant down a drain. Ethylene glycol antifreeze is a very toxic chemical. Do not dispose of coolant into the sewer system or ground water. This is illegal and ecologically unsound.
Various methods and equipment can be used to flush the cooling system. If special equipment is used, such as a back flusher, follow the manufacturer's instruction. Always remove the thermostat before flushing the cooling system.

When the cooling system becomes contaminated, the cooling system should be flushed thoroughly to remove the contaminants before the engine is seriously damaged.

Drain the cooling system. Refer to Draining and Filling Cooling System (Static Fill) or Draining and Filling Cooling System (GE 47716 Fill) .
Remove the surge tank. Refer to Surge Tank Replacement .
Clean and flush the surge tank with clean, drinkable water.
Install the surge tank. Refer to Surge Tank Replacement .
Follow the drain and fill procedure using only clean, drinkable water. Refer to Draining and Filling Cooling System (Static Fill) or Draining and Filling Cooling System (GE 47716 Fill) .
Run the engine for 20 minutes.
Stop the engine.
Drain the cooling system. Refer to Draining and Filling Cooling System (Static Fill) or Draining and Filling Cooling System (GE 47716 Fill) .
Repeat the procedure if necessary, until the fluid is nearly colorless.
Fill the cooling system. Refer to Draining and Filling Cooling System (Static Fill) or Draining and Filling Cooling System (GE 47716 Fill) .