Does Walmart Do Coolant Flushes in 2023?
The short answer is no, Walmart does not offer coolant flushing services at their Auto Care Centers in 2023. However, they do provide alternative options for DIYers who want to flush and change their vehicle‘s coolant themselves.
As an experienced Amazon seller and ecommerce expert, I‘ve done extensive research into the options for coolant flushes this year. In this detailed guide, I‘ll share everything you need to know about getting your cooling system flushed, either DIY or professionally.
Why Regular Coolant Flushes Are Essential
Before jumping into where to get your coolant flushed, let‘s discuss why it‘s so important in the first place. Your vehicle‘s coolant, also called antifreeze, serves a critical function – regulating engine temperature.
Here are three key reasons you need to flush and replace it regularly:
Prevents Overheating – Coolant absorbs excess heat and prevents costly overheating damage. Fresh coolant is better at heat transfer.
Lubricates Water Pump – It keeps the water pump lubricated to prevent premature wear. Old coolant loses lubricating ability.
Prevents Corrosion – Coolant contains anti-corrosive additives to prevent rust and corrosion inside the cooling system. Those additives deplete over time.
Industry experts recommend a complete coolant flush every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles. Check your owner‘s manual for the interval recommended for your vehicle.
Failing to stay on top of coolant flushes can lead to cooling system failures, blown head gaskets, and very expensive repairs down the road.
What Coolant Flush Options Does Walmart Provide?
Walmart understands that regular maintenance like cooling system flushes is essential for vehicles. While they don‘t offer professional flushes, they do provide two options for DIYers:
Coolant Flush Kits
Walmart sells a variety of radiator flush kits in stores and online. Here are some top options:
| Brand | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Prestone Radiator Flush Kit | $3 | 4.5/5 |
| Chem Dip Radiator Flush | $6 | 4.7/5 |
| Royal Purple Cooling System Flush | $10 | 4.8/5 |
Kits contain everything you need to thoroughly flush the old coolant and contaminants from your vehicle‘s system.
Replacement Antifreeze/Coolant
You‘ll also find a wide range of replacement coolant and antifreeze at Walmart. Some top options include:
| Brand | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Prestone 50/50 Prediluted Antifreeze/Coolant | $15/gallon | 4.7/5 |
| Peak Original Equipment Technology Coolant | $25/gallon | 4.5/5 |
| Mobil 1 Extended Performance Coolant | $30/gallon | 4.8/5 |
High-quality coolant like these help provide maximum protection against overheating, freezing, and corrosion.
Between an affordable flush kit and replacement coolant, you can perform a complete cooling system flush yourself with products from Walmart.
Step-By-Step DIY Coolant Flush
While Walmart doesn‘t flush your radiator for you, I‘ll walk you through how to safely DIY a coolant flush if you want to save money but aren‘t sure where to start.
Follow these steps:
1. Allow Engine to Cool Completely
Only check or change coolant when the system is cold to avoid burns. Never remove a radiator cap if it‘s warm.
2. Locate Radiator Drain Plug
Consult owners manual to find the drain plug, typically at the bottom corner of the radiator. Place drain pan underneath.
3. Open Radiator and Reservoir Caps
Opening caps allows air flow to drain coolant.
4. Drain Existing Coolant
Open drain plug and allow coolant to fully drain out, then close plug securely.
5. Rinse System With Water
Optional step to rinse any sediment from system. Drain rinse water.
6. Mix Coolant Flush Solution
Mix flush cleaning product with water per package directions.
7. Fill With Flush Solution
Pour flush solution into radiator, then fill reservoir tank.
8. Run Engine 10 Minutes
Start engine and run for 10 minutes to circulate flush fully.
9. Drain Flush Solution
Open drain again and empty used flush solution.
10. Refill With Fresh Coolant
Mix new coolant with distilled water (usually 50/50 ratio). Refill system.
11. Check for Leaks
Run engine again with caps secured to check for any leaks at hoses or plugs.
And that‘s it! Just follow the drain, flush, fill process and you can easily flush and fill your cooling system at home with products from Walmart.
DIY Coolant Flush Costs
One advantage of the DIY method is cost savings compared to professional flushes. Here are typical costs:
- Coolant flush kit – $3 to $15
- Replacement coolant (2 gallons) – $20 to $60
- Total DIY Cost: $25 to $100
You save significantly over a shop doing the work. However, the DIY process does take 1-2 hours. It‘s a tradeoff between cost and time investment.
Where to Get Professional Coolant Flushes
While Walmart doesn‘t offer coolant flushing services, there are many national chains that do provide professional flushes if you choose to go that route.
Here are some of the top options:
| Store | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Firestone | $120 |
| Jiffy Lube | $100 |
| Meineke | $140 |
| Pep Boys | $130 |
| Valvoline Instant Oil Change | $110 |
The convenience of professional service generally costs $100 to $150, depending on location and vehicle details. Many shops offer coupon specials to lower the price.
I recommend calling around for quotes specific to your vehicle‘s make and model and considering any current promotions.
When to Flush Coolant – Best Practices
To keep your engine running in tip-top shape, follow these best practices for coolant flushes:
Follow Manufacturer Intervals – Flush at least every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles per most manufacturers. Check your owner‘s manual for specific intervals.
Use the Proper 50/50 Coolant Mix – Always mix concentrated coolant with distilled water at a 50/50 ratio for optimal performance.
Don‘t Forget the Reservoir – Make sure to drain and refill the coolant reservoir tank during a flush, not just the radiator itself.
Check Condition Annually – Visually inspect coolant color and level at least yearly to spot any leaks or contamination.
Change Coolant Types Properly – Don‘t mix incompatible coolant types. If switching, fully flush the old coolant first.
Staying diligent on proper cooling system maintenance will extend the life of your vehicle for years down the road.
Conclusion
While Walmart doesn‘t offer professional coolant flushing services, they provide quality DIY flush kits and replacement coolant. If tackling it yourself at home, follow proper procedures to get the system thoroughly cleaned without any air pockets or contamination left behind.
Alternatively, you can get a flush done at national chains like Firestone, Jiffy Lube, Meineke, Pep Boys, or Valvoline for $100-$150 typically. Wherever you choose to go, a regular cooling system flush is one of the most important maintenance items for your car or truck. Keep the top up and engine running smoothly.
