In this video, I show you how to safely drain the engine coolant from a 2016-2019 Chevrolet Cruze (second-generation model). Knowing how to empty the cooling system properly is an essential skill for any DIY vehicle repair or routine maintenance, saving you money and preventing messy spills on your garage floor.
Common reasons you need to drain your coolant include:
- Performing routine cooling system flushes to replace old, depleted antifreeze and prevent internal engine corrosion.
- Replacing failing cooling system components such as the water pump, thermostat housing, radiator, or leaking coolant hoses.
- Correcting an incorrect coolant mixture or cleaning out contamination after an accidental top-up with the wrong fluid.
Step-by-Step Overview:
- Preparation: Park the vehicle on a level surface, set the parking brake, and let the engine cool completely. Loosen the coolant reservoir cap slowly to relieve any remaining pressure.
- Locate the Drain: Access the bottom passenger side of the radiator. Locate the plastic drain petcock plug near the lower corner.
- Drain the System: Position a clean drain pan directly beneath the petcock. Carefully loosen the plastic plug counterclockwise (using your fingers or a socket/wrench if tight) until the coolant begins to flow smoothly out into your pan.
Safety First: Engine coolant gets extremely hot and operates under high pressure—never attempt to drain it while the engine is warm, as it can cause severe burns. Antifreeze is also highly toxic to pets and children due to its sweet smell, so always capture it securely in a sealed pan, clean up spills immediately, protect your hands and eyes with durable gloves and safety glasses, and stay completely focused and attentive throughout the process.
As an experienced mechanic with a deep background in professional automotive repair and diagnostics, I am here to help you get your car serviced right. If you run into any issues with a stuck petcock or have questions about the refilling and bleeding process for this specific model, just leave a comment below and I will help you out!